Alpha World

Book One:

Gamer

for

Life

Daniel Schinhofen

© Copyright 2017 by Daniel Schinhofen

Contents

Prologue

Character Creation

Game On

Exploring

Stormguard

Goblins

Goblin Fort

Rewards

Grinding Goblins

Shopping

Ruined Village

The Messenger

Sparring

Death Tracker Grugh

Celebration

Goblin Slaying

Duel

Orc Village

Chieftain

Prologue

Seamus lay on his bunk looking at the single light above him before closing his eyes with a deep sigh. The guards would be here soon to get him for the meeting with his attorney. Sitting up, he opened his eyes to glance again at the small concrete room he was confined in. Bad enough he had the one conviction of murder on his record, now he was facing a second one. This charge was bullshit though, he defended himself and they were still pressing forward with the case. Fucking prosecutor must be thinking of running for office soon to not have dropped this bullshit case.

The guards looked in the small window then opened the cuff flap, “Masterson, come over and give us your hands behind your back.” The voice was calm, level and completely devoid of emotion.

Seamus stood up, stretching before going to the door and putting his wrists through the flap behind his back. He felt the tug on his arms to give them more room to work with as the cold click of the cuffs snapped into place. He was, after all, on lock-down for assaulting and killing another inmate, so they had to treat him as a threat even if he had never caused the guards any problems. Once his arms were secured the door unlocked and the four guards opened the door.

Seamus gave them a rueful smile, “Sgt. Jasperson, how are you and the deputies today?”

The sergeant shook his head, “Not a good day so far. Your case is creating ripples in the pond, which has everyone on edge. You know the way. Stay inside the lines and we won’t have any issues.”

“I’m sorry about that sir, but I wasn’t about to let him rape me. You already know my feelings on that subject, after all. Maybe my attorney will tell me the case is being dropped due to self-defense.” Seamus replied as he started to walk towards the meeting room with the four guards beside and behind him. Seamus made sure to stay along the wall inside the yellow lines that were there to guide the inmates. “I do hope it settles down for you all. I know I hated it when the inmates got feisty at my old job.”

The rest of the walk was in silence which Seamus just let hang there. The guards had been an exemplary example of professionalism when he had been incarcerated. A former county jail guard, Seamus had a rough idea of how tough the job could be for them. He had even been on decent grounds with Jasperson when the sergeant had done pick-ups from their local jail when inmates were transferred to state jail. His first case, though, had severed all of those ties as surely as a knife. Seamus felt no remorse over that incident at all.

Upon reaching the lawyer room, Seamus was surprised to see his attorney, Mr. Moorehead, with another elderly man wearing a very expensive suit. The guards brought Seamus in and secured him to the bench before leaving him and the men alone. “Moore,” Seamus greeted the attorney with the unfortunate name of Moore Moorehead, “good to see you. Care to introduce me to the man who doesn’t belong here?”

Moore chuckled, “Always to the point Seamus, one of the reasons I like you. This is Mr. Ovanhed, he represents an opportunity being offered to you. You are their first pick for this offer. I don’t have news on your appeals or on your new case at this time. This meeting is solely for you to accept or reject the offer that you will hear about if you sign a non-disclosure agreement.”

Laughing, Seamus smiled, “A non-disclosure agreement for a convicted felon? Oh this should be rich. But first, who do you work for, Mr. Ovanhed?”

Ovanhed replied coolly, “The Justice Department is my primary employer. The non-disclosure agreement pertains to an offer being made by Mindblown Entertainment. Will you sign?”

Seamus blinked, completely caught off guard by that statement. Mindblown was the biggest producer of virtual reality games on the market. They were the leader in and still pushing the boundaries of VR. Two years ago, just before his first case, they had released a fully immersive system for VR. Seamus felt his fingers tingle and his mouth start to dry as he considered the implications. Nodding slowly, Seamus took the document from Moorehead and signed it.

“Excellent,” Ovanhed said, “now we can really talk. Mr. Masterson, you are being offered the chance to field test the first wave of long term fully immersive virtual reality pods. If you accept, you will be placed into the pod permanently to see how well the human body holds up long term. You will serve your sentence while helping advance the boundaries of science. Are you interested?”

Moorehead rolled his eyes, “Please Ivan, you need to tell him more than that. No one would jump at the blind chance you’re waving. Tell him the full version of what it all means.”

Seamus chuckled, “Thanks Moore, you took the words out of my mouth.”

“Fine,” Ivan said, “Mindblown has completed the first iteration of their new FIVR pods, Fully Immersive Virtual Reality. They have been tested for various lengths up to two months and had good results. When Mindblown sought approval for long term pods, we saw a chance for something greater. We asked them to look into longer term storage,” he coughed, “immersion along the lines of years. They think they have the solution and now we need a sub… test case.”

Laughing, Seamus shook his head, “So you want me to be a guinea pig for a long term FIVR pod? Why me and what will I be experiencing if I do agree?”

“You were recommended specifically by Mindblown as potentially their first test case. Upon reviewing your case we noted the circumstances around it and agreed that you would be acceptable. Your most recent case also weighs into this discussion. It can be dropped if you agree?”

“So if I don’t agree the case goes forward? If I do, what then? Also, why the fuck is the DoJ even interested in the idea of long term...” Seamus shut up as he figured it out, “You want to put inmates sentenced to life into a virtual prison.”

Ovanhed blinked but otherwise didn’t show any reaction. “I can’t discuss with you my department’s interest. Also, if you don’t agree, we will not step in on your behalf and the case is very likely to go forward.”

Moorehead sighed, shaking his head, “It’s a bad deal, Seamus. They want you to sign away all liability on this test. You’ll be agreeing to never being able to leave the pod and never having a chance to sue anyone if anything goes wrong. I’m certain I can have your latest case dismissed and get your sentence for the conviction reduced. I suggest you don’t take this deal.”

Looking at Moorehead, Seamus knew the man cared. Moorehead represented him for the bare minimum fee, and believed that Seamus didn’t deserve the harsh sentence he had been facing. “Thanks Moore, it really does mean a lot, all you’ve done for me. I never expected a good attorney to help, I thought I would get the dregs of the public defender’s office.” Seamus turned to Ovanhed, “Tell me about what I will be experiencing if I agree? Is it a game, a prison, something else?”

Ovanhed smiled thinly, “I can’t, actually, or not much. Mindblown has told us you will be placed in a prison initially, but will have the opportunity to gain your freedom within the virtual framework. It is described as a fantasy type setting. You will be playing with all settings at maximum in order to fully test the system.”

“So stay here where people want me dead, or gamble my life on the chance the untested long term immersion works? Is this the deal?” Seamus asked looking at Moorehead, who nodded. “Where do I sign?”

Moorhead shook his head, “Seamus, don’t do this. There are too many ways for it to go badly.”

“They want to take all the life sentenced inmates and put them into prisons in virtual space. That’s their end goal, Moore, and I don’t disagree with it at all. As long as this deal specifies that I won’t be sent to one of them, I’ll do it. My last act of helping the system that I spent years serving before ending up on the other side.” Seamus replied, his voice calm. Turning to look at Ovanhed, “If our deal states I will never be sent to one of your virtual hells, I mean prisons, I will agree.”

Ovanhed nodded as he stood up, “Glad you’re on board. The paperwork will be sent to your attorney in the next few weeks. Once everything is signed off, we’ll put the wheels in motion and have you transported to the test facility.” He went to the door, knocked and a guard let him out.

Moorehead looked at Seamus with sadness in his eyes, “Why Seamus? Why did you agree to this? You have a very good chance of being freed when I get your sentence reduced. You’ll be helping them set up whole worlds were people are trapped in virtual space to cut down on costs for the government to hold them.”

“The second part is why, Moore. You know I used to work as a guard, I have no love for convicted inmates. Even as I turned my back on the law when I committed my crime, I knew what would happen. It’s why I pled guilty and tried to get a reduced sentence to begin with. The system is broken in some ways sure, but overall it’s the best we have at the moment. The cost to the citizens to house an inmate for life is stupid if we can just put them into a pod. If this works out, don’t fight for a reduction, let them keep me in a virtual world forever. Maybe there I can find the justice that I struck out for on my own. Please go, I want to be alone now.”

Moorehead didn’t reply as he left Seamus at the table. A minute later the guards came and took Seamus back to his solitary confinement in silence. Seamus let his mind run at the very idea that he might be free, even if it was going to be digitally. A sad smile crossed his face as he recalled his old friend Alvin Brouch, who had been a coder at Mindblown Entertainment. Maybe it was him that Seamus had to thank for this opportunity, hopefully he would get the chance.

The next few days went by in isolation, with only his hour out in the yard and meals as the breaks in the day. On the fourth day from his meeting with Ovanhed, Seamus was in the yard for his hour when Sgt. Jasperson came out and sent the guard watching him back inside. Sighing, Seamus set his book down, looking over as Jasperson came over and took a seat on the nearby weight bench.

“Seamus, maybe you can shed some light on something for me,” Jasperson drawled. “It seems there have been orders coming down that you are to be watched carefully. More so than we have been since the last incident. Practically a suicide watch. Any idea as to what’s going on?”

Seamus pursed his lips in thought for a second. “I can’t,” he began and Jasperson’s face shut down. “Wait a second, I can’t without breaking an NDA. The man with my attorney was Department of Justice, and I’m not even sure I’m allowed to say that much. I will not be a thorn in your side for much longer, though. If things happen the way they should, I’ll be going to a different facility. Which means I should take this chance to apologize and say thanks.”

Jasperson eyed him for a second, shaking his head, “Don’t. I didn’t agree with what you did to end up here. Frankly, it shocked and disgusted me to no end. I had never even thought you would do something so heinous. I’m not saying he didn’t deserve it, just it wasn’t right for you to do what you did, Seamus. As for the last incident here, it’s still being investigated. That man should never have been anywhere near you, let alone in the yard or unsupervised.”

“Well, be that as it may. I still thank you for being civil to me and I am sorry about the heat that is down on you all right now. I’ll ask my attorney to pass along what he can if you are really interested?”

Standing up, Jasperson shook his head, “Don’t. I’m glad you didn’t get the chair, but you still shouldn’t have killed him. Wherever you go I hope they treat you fairly, though. I talked to your old sergeant yesterday. He’s retiring, he was strung out after the FBI investigation into the murder. He wanted me to tell you to keep your chin up. It seems he still cares enough to wish you happiness.”

“Yeah, Sgt. Grey always had a soft spot for his deputies. Next time you see him, tell him to knock back a Guinness in my name, please.” Seamus picked his book up and went back to the best fantasy trilogy ever created. He’d just been getting to meeting Treebeard in the forest, which was one of his favorite spots in the books.

Giving the murderous ex-deputy one more glance, Jasperson walked over to the door and knocked. The guard came back out to take over his station as Jasperson left. The guard glanced at Seamus questioningly but didn’t say anything, so Seamus ignored the look.

The following day Moorehead came back to visit Seamus with paperwork to sign. After being cuffed and taken to the lawyer room Seamus found Moore quite agitated. “What’s the matter, Moore?”

Sighing, Moore replied quickly, “This paperwork was a nightmare. All the clauses and sub-clauses in it, would drive a senator mad. It boils down to you’ll pulled out of the pod once a year for a week so they can do a full work up on your physical condition. Otherwise you’ll stay in the pod even if a medical emergency arises, in such case they will provide aid while you stay in-game.”

Chuckling, Seamus shrugged, “Yeah, but it won’t seem like I’m behind bars as I’ll be in a full virtual world. I’ve already made my peace with the thought of death, so I don't really care if I die. I doubt they’ll let anything like that happen, though. They need a good healthy test case to really get good data. What about me being transferred, is it soon?”

“It will take place in three weeks if you sign off today. I implore you again not to do this, Seamus. Think about what you are going to help them do to others.” Moore had a real pleading tone to his voice.

Seamus met his lawyer’s eyes, “Moore, you’re thinking of the negative. Think for a second of the positive, if this works it will give life to so many others who really deserve it. The paralyzed, the broken and the twisted of body will have a chance at a full life again in a digital world. That is what I look to, my name then might not be reviled for what I did to get here, but what I did to help others after the tests are done.”

Blinking, Moore considered Seamus’s words carefully, thinking though the implications he had not considered. “That’s what you see? Not the hellish idea of people being stuck in virtual prisons to cut down on costs of housing long term inmates?”

“Well, to be frank, I like the idea of the second one too, but the first one is what really tugs at me. Think of why I’m here, why I committed my crime and think of what I said. I can help her have a life again if this goes well. She’ll be able to walk, run, dance and more. That’s what really motivates me to agree.”

Moore’s lips twisted into a sad smile, “Alright Seamus, I’ll stop asking you to desist. Just sign in the highlighted areas and this will move forward.”

Taking the stack of papers and the pen Seamus didn’t even glance at the print, he just signed all the right spots, handing the signed forms back when he was done. “Moore, one last thing as who knows what happens from here. Thank you, you didn’t have to take my case for next to nothing. You didn’t have to fight as much as you did after I pled guilty. I thank you for that and will say it again once I go into the pod, stop fighting for my freedom. I will live out the rest of my life in a digital world in one form or another.”

Taking the pen and forms, Moore stood up as Seamus spoke, shaking his head. “I can’t. I promised your father I would do my very best. I will honor his wishes even though he’s gone, I will do what he asked of me.”

“So be it. In my father’s name then, fight as you will. Goodness knows it broke his heart when I did what I did, but he understood and forgave me which meant the world to me. Say hi to my mother for me if you see her.” Seamus said softly before Moore left and Seamus was returned to his cell.

The next two weeks went by without incident or break from routine until the third Monday came. Seamus heard the cuff flap open as Sgt. Jasperson ordered Seamus up and over to be cuffed. Smiling, Seamus did so thinking it was finally time. Seamus was escorted down to the medical wing of the prison, which he hadn’t seen since he’d killed the other inmate. Smiling and nodding to the staff, he was sat on a gurney. The doctor came over and did a check up on him, noting all the vitals before Seamus was shackled to the gurney.

“Well, looks like it’s time. Good luck gentlemen, I might not be one of you wearing the shield anymore but I still support you every day. Hold the line and bear the weight, your dedication is honored.” Seamus said, seeing the faces all go hard as he spoke.

Jasperson leaned over him, face grim, “Shut it, inmate.”

Seamus shook his head being serious, “Can’t Sarge, it’s the truth whether you all like it or not. Until we meet in the next life or beyond remember: Dedication, Duty and Honor.”

Growling, Jasperson walked next to the gurney as the medical staff wheeled him down the halls. Eventually he came to a processing room where his paperwork was being completed. Seamus could make out very large men in federal uniforms signing for him. Jasperson seemed very upset about the fact the feds were taking away one of his inmates. Seamus stayed silent as the feds pushed him out the door to a waiting heavy transport unit. He was placed into the back where a nurse was waiting to get the gurney secured. He read her name on her scrubs, smiling at it as he lay back while she worked around him. A few minutes later she took her seat and the engine turned over, making Seamus laugh.

The nurse looked at him, “What is so funny?”

“My freedom is the fact that I’m going to be poked and prodded as a science experiment that I hope will help those people who could use it while taking it away slightly from those who threw it away.” Seamus replied with a grin on his face, “It’s also why I love your name, Sunshine. The first rays of light breaking over the cloudy day my life had become.”

Sunshine blinked, looking at him oddly, “Do you understand what is going to happen to you?”

“I’m going into a virtual reality pod to test how very long term immersion affects humans.” Seamus said, his smile not dimming in the least, “During that time I am going to be able to partake in one of Mindblown Entertainment’s finest works.”

“Well yes, but you won’t have contact with your loved ones anymore,” she said as if this should hurt him.

Shaking his head sadly, Seamus answered her, “My father is dead, my mother hasn’t spoken to me since and I have no siblings.”

Sunshine’s face seemed to scrunch slightly, “That’s horrible, for her to turn her back on her only child.”

“No, she’s right to do it. It’s my fault dad died, I killed him by breaking his heart when I was arrested for murder. So I don’t blame her for turning from me even if he did forgive me before he passed. One day I hope she’ll find it in her to do the same but I will not beg her. I love her too much for her to see me broken before her.” Seamus replied before turning his face away from the nurse, “Is it going to be a long ride?”

“A few hours, did you need something to drink?”

“Nope, I’ll just get a nap in while we drive.” Seamus said as he closed his eyes to nap. Running away from the pain he felt in his heart at the loss of his mother comforting him even at his age.

Seamus woke sometime later when the vehicle stopped and the engine cut off. Blinking open his eyes while yawning he looked around to find Sunshine hooking an IV bag up to a pole above his head. “Going to stick me before we roll?”

Smirking, she looked down at his arms, “Don't need any more than I already have.”

Following her eyes, Seamus's jaw opened up in astonishment. “Wow, now that is the work of a pro. Both arms without me feeling a thing while I slept and I'm not exactly a heavy sleeper.”

“There’s a reason they’re paying my salary as the chief nurse for this little experiment. The head doctor, Rosenbloom, should be ready for us.” She cut off as the back doors opened and the four federal guards wheeled him out of the back.

“Wait, the Doctor is Rosenbloom and the head nurse is Sunshine?” Seamus started to laugh, considering the names. “Too bad it's fall or I would so be making spring jokes right now.”

Shaking her head, Sunshine followed the gurney and guards. “You seem very mellow for a murderer, with a second murder investigation ongoing.”

Seamus snapped his mouth shut cutting the laughter off. “Oh, the nurse scores a point with that comment. Well done Sunshine, but if you knew the details you would understand.”

“I read all of the related news bits I could find. After all, if I have to be around a killer for a year or more I wanted to know what I could. You killed him in cold blood while escorting him to court.” Sunshine replied as the guards trundled the gurney down a few halls all done in the standard jail décor of reinforced brick.

“That thing,” venom dripped from the word, “deserved much more than I did to him. After all, I was kind. I only double tapped the back of his head. Then I waited calmly for my fellow coworkers and the sheriff’s deputies to show up and arrest me. You obviously skipped the real details of the crime he committed that led to me removing him from the gene pool.” Seamus’s voice turned icy at the end, cutting off further conversation.

One of the guards grunted, “Shut up, Masterson.”

Seamus looked over at the guard with hooded eyes, his face blank. He looked around, noting the signs of heavily reinforced walls with small windows way up off the floor. The door they came to had to be opened by remote, which made Seamus feel almost back on the job. No keys for this facility which meant escape was way down on the list of possibilities. Not that he wanted to, after all you don't turn yourself in to try and escape.

A couple more hallways and doors brought him to something like an operating room, if you discounted the heavy reinforced door they came through. Six people in scrubs were moving around a metallic pod with way more wires than it should have. The guards brought the gurney to a stop next to the pod as an older white haired man came over.

“Ah you must be Masterson, I'm Doctor Rosenbloom. I head up the medical staff keeping you healthy while you’re in the pod for the next year. Do you have any questions about what we are going to do?”

“Kind of curious how I'm going to get enough nutrients?” Seamus replied. “Also, what about muscle atrophy?”

“We’ll be using the nutrient solution the space agency created for the proposed Mars missions, before they were scrapped by the government. It was tested for years and showed that it would keep the body in good working condition while in stasis, which is what you’ll basically be in. As for your muscles, this pod is designed to flex your joints periodically. We’ll also be stimulating the muscles with small electric currents.”

Seamus pursed his lips but nodded before asking his next question, “I know the normal pods work on inducing a sleep like state, what about this one?”

Smiling broadly, Rosenbloom replied, “The same thing but we’ll be putting you deeper under. You will be in a medically induced coma for all intents and purposes. We just have a few procedures to do before you’re hooked up.”

“What procedures exactly?”

“First we’ll be conducting a thorough physical exam to get your base vitals for comparison purposes. We will also empty your stomach and bowels of solid waste. It’s for the best to do it before you go under as that will leave you with only the solution. That means only one type of waste to deal with in any real amount. I take it you don't want to know all the squishy details about what we will be hooking up to you and how?”

Shuddering, Seamus looked away, “Yeah, don't tell me. That still sounds like a day and I didn't think the game was launching ‘til next week.”

Rosenbloom chuckled, “The early access period will be launching Thursday. Which means you will have two days after today to wait before we hook you into the game proper. However, word has come down from Mindblown that they’d like you to test out some other new idea they’re tinkering with. Would you like a chance at bonuses at the start of the game?”

Chuckling, Seamus nodded, “Who doesn't want extra shit when starting a new game? What’s the catch?”

“They created an AI to test people who want extras to start with. It’s mostly a psych test, but there are also some things you’ll have to go hands on with. Are you interested?”

“Psych test? I really hate those things with a passion. Goodness knows I’ve had enough of them over the last two years. Fuck it, I’ll do another one to start out with bonuses.”

“Very good, let’s get started then,” Rosenbloom said as the medical staff bustled around prepping machines for the physical exam. “Guards, remove his shackles please.”

The one guard grunted and loomed over Seamus with a grim face, “If you ass up I will put you down. My orders are, if you harm anyone here, to stop you with any means I deem appropriate. Got it?”

Seamus rolled his eyes, “Yeah, the government is looming over me with you as its chosen implement. Now play nice and do as the doctor says, Butch.”

The guard sneered before unshackling Seamus from the gurney, stepping back and keeping his hand on the high voltage taser he wore. Seamus stayed laying down, “Ready when you are, Doc.”

Sunshine came over to apply electrodes to him after his shirt and pants were taken off. Seamus didn't really want to be in the bright orange boxers only but fuck it, the less he made an issue of things the faster this would be over.

Seamus complied with every order from the medical staff, watching Butch get itchy every time a new order was given. Seamus was sorely tempted to fail to comply just once to see what would happen, but the way the guard kept his hand on the taser stopped him.

The tests went on for hours as they took blood, did x-rays, cat scans and more. Seamus was surprised at just how much medical equipment they had on hand. They gave him a chalky tasting drink eventually. Seamus twisted his lips at the taste, but drank up as he was asked to.

Many hours later the tests were done and Seamus was voided of all solid waste. He felt like shit after the drink cleaned him out. Finally they put him into the pod, connecting up electrodes to various pads on him.

Yawning, Seamus noticed the staff also looking tired. “We calling it a night soon?”

“In about five minutes,” Rosenbloom said tiredly. “We’re going to induce the coma at that point. When you come to you’ll be with the AI. Any last questions?”

“Nope,” Seamus yawned again, “just want to say thanks for making this clinical. I'm in your hands doctor, you and your staff. You’ve all been pleasant and I thank you for that. Now, if next time you can get less twitchy guards I would feel much better.”

Rosenbloom nodded to Sunshine who pushed a drug into his IV. “Good night Seamus, we’ll speak again in a year.”

Rubbing his eyes as he sat up, he winced at the headache he had but it was fading fast. Seamus looked around only to find himself back in his solitary cell. Blinking, he got up and checked to see if all of his stuff was where it should be. “Guess I was dreaming?” Seamus muttered to himself.

A loud clang followed by Sgt. Jasperson telling Seamus to come get cuffed brought Seamus’s head around to face the door. Walking over, he asked what was going on only to be informed that his lawyer wanted to see him. Frowning, Seamus presented his wrists through the cuff flap behind him. He felt the first one tighten down like normal but the second one only ratcheted once. He heard the door unlock and spoke up quickly. “Sarge, stop,” Seamus yelled, “The left cuff isn’t tight. I don’t want you all to think I’m trying anything, so please tighten the cuff first.”

The door paused and Seamus felt the cuff ratchet down tight. Jasperson then opened the door, speaking as he did, “Sorry about that. You know the way, start walking.”

Seamus turned to follow the marked path to the lawyer visitation area. Once his cuffs were secured to the heavy ring on the bench he sat on the deputies left him alone with Moorehead. “What’s up, Moore?”

“More paperwork,” Moore said, shaking his head, “Mindblown wanted another few clauses covered in the agreement.”

Letting out a mild sigh, Seamus shrugged, “Well, let’s knock it out then. I was just having a dream that I had left here already when the guards came to get me. My nurse was named Sunshine and the doctor was Rosenbloom. It was almost enough to make jokes about if it had been spring.”

Moorehead cracked a small smile, “I will not laugh at other’s names, mine is unfortunate enough. Caused me endless grief through school.”

“I can imagine, all sorts of variations that could be said about your name,” Seamus said as he started to sign paperwork.

While Seamus was signing papers, Moore cleared his throat to ask a question. “Seamus about our last talk, which of them is the real reason? Is it because you want people to be able to have a virtual life or that you want to see criminals digitally incarcerated? Which one of them is the primary reason?”

“Already said it was the first one,” Seamus said not even looking up. “If I can give her a semblance of life again I’ll count it a win even if it costs me my own.”

Seamus heard Moore get up and begin to pace in obvious agitation. “That can’t be right, though. Not from you, you had multiple disciplinary investigations for excessive force while you were a guard in the county jail. Why do you say it’s to help others when you really just want to punish the inmates more?”

Glancing up to watch his lawyer pace, Seamus shook his head before going back to signing forms. “I was cleared of each and every one of those charges when they came up. Inmates love to claim abuse when we had to go hands on due to them not obeying simple orders. Like the one I had in an arm bar who kept saying he was choking, as if me having his arm prevented him from breathing. Look, Kaylee got fucked up bad by that asshole and won’t be able to walk again, much less dance like she used too. If what I’m doing means she’ll be able to spend years inside a virtual world where she can dance again, then I’ll do it.” Seamus kept his tone level and polite as he kept signing his name to each form.

“Wasn’t it enough when you killed her attacker? Why risk your life like this just for the chance she might be able to have a digital life?” Moore pressed, coming over to lean on the metal table next to Seamus.

“She’s the only child of my best friend, David McMullen. He would have done it himself if he had the opportunity. He didn’t, and he needs to be there to help Kaylee through these years where she feels as if life has been taken away from her. Did you know she always called me Uncle Seamus? When I went to see her after the attack she didn’t even want me in the room with her. She is physically broken and mentally scarred. Her father is the only man she’ll speak to now. She had scholarships to Harvard and Yale waiting for her to pick one because of her academic scores. How would she be able to deal with university when she can’t stand to be around any man other than her father?” Seamus felt his hands ache and realized he had them clenched tightly. He set down the bent pen and started to take deep breaths to clear his mind. “We’re done talking about this.”

“But…” Moore started, but cut off as he met Seamus’s eyes.

“We are done with that topic Moore. Period, end of fucking story, okay?” Seamus knew his eyes burned with anger even though it wasn’t directed at Moore. The wound of seeing the girl he treated as a daughter flinching away from him while crying had reopened from talking about it. He felt the same raw anger he had the day he had executed her attacker on his way to court. “Papers are done, and so are we.”

Moore nodded, picking up the papers and pen before going over and knocking on the door. A minute later the guards came to escort Seamus back to his cell. Flinging himself onto his bed, he grabbed his pillow and covered his head. He could still hear her crying and telling him to leave her alone even after all this time. David had visited a few times after Seamus had committed the murder. The last time was four months ago when David told him Kaylee was finally going home with him. She hadn't improved since the attack which had made Seamus even more worried for her.

Seamus came to some time later, his head on an oak desk. Sitting up he wiped at his mouth in case of drool, Seamus found himself sitting in a richly appointed study. Two walls were floor to ceiling bookshelves filled with all different types of books. He picked out a few of his favorites in leather binding before he tore his eyes away from them. The carpet was thick and shaded a deep grey that felt wonderful on his bare feet. Blinking, he looked down to find himself barefoot but wearing jeans and shirt. The desk held no computer or knickknacks of any kind, not even the obligatory picture frame. Just as he thought about getting up the door opened to allow a woman in.

She was wearing a modest white sundress with yellow flowers on it. Looking her over quickly, Seamus noted she was a little heavy set but very attractive, if anything the little padding she had helped accentuate her curves. His eyes found full red lips pursed in a quirky smile, above which was a button nose and two of the most intelligent grey eyes he had ever seen. Her raven dark hair was in a tight bun above her head, showing off her long neck and cute ears. “Hello Mr. Masterson, it is good to finally meet you.”

Seamus stood up as she came to the desk and extended his hand. “The pleasure is mine Miss, but you do seem to have the advantage of me. Can I get you to tell me your name?”

A delightful soft laugh filled the air, “My name is Victoria, but you can call me Vicky if you would like. I hope you are feeling well today?” She took his hand in her soft grip giving it a firm shake before taking a seat in her chair.

Blinking, Seamus sat back down when she released his hand. “Vicky, where am I?”

“Oh, sorry I thought they told you about me. I’m the AI that will be doing your psych evaluation. In fact I started a few minutes ago when you spoke with Moorehead. I find that very interesting indeed. Did you find me using your memories to build a scenario wrong?” Victoria asked sitting forward slightly, her eyes intense on him.

“Wait, what? That talk I just had with my attorney wasn’t real? I’m really in the pod already?” Seamus asked rapidly, his eyes widening slightly. “It all seemed so real, though.”

“That was the point, to get a real truthful answer from you and to judge your reactions to it. I want to do more scenarios during the evaluation, but I’ve been told if you object I have to stop. So I am going to do it the easy way and ask up front, can we do more of those? It really helps me better gauge things.”

“How?” Seamus asked bluntly, still reeling from what he was being told.

“I can pick up your surface thoughts during this evaluation. So, as you react to things I can see what you are thinking as you react. You clearly thought about hitting Moore to make him shut up. You dismissed that idea and asked him to stop with quite a lot of intensity instead. I know the topic bothers you a great deal now, so I will try to avoid touching it so directly for now.”

“I really didn’t care for that at all, Vicky. If you stay away from my crime and why it happened we can do another scenario or two. I want to know if this evaluation can be used against me in any way?”

“No Seamus, it can’t be used against you, think of this as doctor confidentiality. Once you go in game your pod will have a live video feed of your character so they can see what is going on in case something triggers a medical crisis. Until you log in, there will be no record. I am just here to get a good idea of how you react to things. Do you know anything about Alpha World?” Vicky asked, settling back in her chair and crossing her legs.

Seamus resisted the urge to look down as she did so while he shook his head. “The basics, it's a FIVR MMORPG with a fantasy setting. Mindblown has been working on it for the last two years and it goes live in a week or so. Standard elf, dwarf and human as the races available and the class system I think is roughly the same standard thing fantasy settings have used for decades.”

“Okay, so a very rough idea then of the basics,” Vicky replied. “Let’s further your understanding, shall we? The races available also include the Lunari, or cat-people, in the starting choices. There will be chances for people to change races in the game thanks to various quests or items they can find. A Lunari Vampire, as an example, is entirely possible.” She chuckled as Seamus raised an eyebrow. “Also, the classes are very diverse. Elementalist, Necromancer, Summoner, Shadow Dancer, Trap Smith, Priest, Shaman, Paladin, Berserker, Defender and several other classes are available to starting players. At each level, except every fifth, every class gains a spell or spell-like action that do not require visiting a trainer to learn. At each fifth level you are given options for abilities by your trainer to help specialize you. This system helps make each person playing, an Elementalist for instance, different than the others.”

Chuckling, Seamus considered the possibilities. “Are the choices limitless or is there a set number to choose from? Are all options available right away or do you get more and more choices at each fifth level?”

“Two choices every fifth level, along with the option of taking one that you passed by previously. Statistics are a given value at the start based on class, and each level you get a number of points to distribute as you see fit. So a strength heavy Elementalist is possible, but it would be a really bad idea. The idea is to allow people to play the way they want to, even if it means they have a really weak character. That is enough about the game for now, though. Alpha World is not here yet and you have the chance at increased stats for taking this test. So, shall we continue with the scenarios?” Vicky asked as she recrossed her legs while leaning forward eagerly.

“Let’s see what you have in store for me before we commit to more than this one,” Seamus replied, again forcing himself to not follow the motion of her legs.

The room vanished, replaced by a frozen scene. A small kitten was in a tree twenty feet up, directly below it was a large hornet nest with hornets all about it. The tree was in the front of a house with an open garage door. Inside the garage was a lot of junk to Seamus’s eyes as he took in the whole picture.

“All I want you to do Seamus,” Vicky’s voice said from all around him, “is save the kitten from the hornets. You have ten minutes to figure out your plan. The hornets are extremely aggressive and the kitten’s pitiful meows are upsetting them more. In ten minutes they will swarm the kitten unless you can stop them. Also, if you approach they will attack you and the kitten, and the pain sensors for the pod are set to max. Good luck.”

A small red clock appeared in the lower right of his peripheral vision, counting down. The sound kicked on as the scene came to life with the kitten meowing piteously as it clung to its branch. Seamus went to the garage and started looking through all the stuff piled up inside of it. He noted the hose with an obvious hole in it and set it aside for the moment. Water alone wouldn’t ground the hornets fast enough to save him or the kitten.

The time ticked away as he went through the stuff as quickly as he could. He smiled when he found a garden feeder attachment for the hose and set it next to the hose. He found some heavy duty tape and tossed it next to the hose. No fucking bug spray in the whole pile of junk, but he did find a bottle of liquid soap. Taking the hose, he patched the hole thoroughly with the tape. It wouldn’t last long, but it would hold for the time he needed it for. He placed soap into the garden feeder attachment and hooked up to the hose before hooking the hose to the spigot one the side of the house. Seamus faced away from the hornets and turned the water on to test if he was getting enough suds. Sure enough the water going through the feeder picked up enough soap and agitation to create suds.

Seamus turned the water off, pulling the feeder off to top up the soap off before hooking everything back up. Getting the hose pointed above the nest slightly, Seamus nodded as he turned the water on full blast. Soapy water came out in a wide spray, knocking the hornets in the air around the kitten down first. The soap coating their wings dropped them from the air. The nest exploded with activity as hornets came pouring out, only to also get soaped and collapse to the ground. The kitten, getting wet, meowed loudly and climbed further out onto the branch. Seamus didn’t turn the hose off until no more hornets came out. Once they had stopped he cocked the hose so the stream continued to arc over the mass of them on the ground. He got the small ladder from the garage and carried it to the tree. A minute later he had a very upset, soapy kitten out of the tree along with a few deep scratches on his arms for his trouble.

The scene paused, the kitten vanished and Seamus was dry again, after getting wet when he grabbed the kitten. “Very well done, Seamus. Very creative use of the items in the pile. Did you spot any other options?”

“A few, but none of them would have been as effective or as quick to really reduce the threat to me and the kitten. This scenario was actually a little fun, I love problem solving. How do you guys make it all seem so real?”

“We feed your brain the stimuli needed for you to be able to smell, feel, taste, hear, and otherwise perceive sensation. You know how a cat sounds or how hornets buzz, so we give you the raw input and let your brain filter it for you to experience. That is a very rough and crude way of explaining a complicated process. Are you okay with doing another one?” Vicky asked, to which Seamus consented.

The rest of the day flew by in a blur as best Seamus could recall it. The scenarios were all over the board, testing his determination to break through a door to help a screaming child on the other side or jumping into a freezing pond to save a puppy. It also touched on how he dealt with different aggressors, from women who wanted him in bed to three guys who wanted to kill him. All Seamus could clearly remember was Victoria’s smile as each scenario concluded with her sitting across from him.

Eventually, she shook her head, “Time certainly does fly, as the saying goes. You should rest for a bit. You’ll find that you still need to do things like sleep and eat. The designers decided that most biological functions did not need representation, so for most players food simply provides buffs. Anyone logged in for more than twelve hours at a time though, will find a starvation debuff waiting for them, so remember to eat and stay hydrated. Did you have any other questions before you rest?”

“We’re doing this again tomorrow, right?” Seamus asked.

Shaking her head as if sad, Victoria replied, ‘We’ve already spent twenty four hours together, Seamus.” Seamus blinked at her statement but she continued on, “After you rest you will be given the chance to make your avatar and then just wait for early access to launch. It has been a pleasure meeting and speaking with you. I will see you again in a year to do this all over again to see how you have changed, or not. Sleep well and good luck.”

She started to fade and Seamus called out quickly, “Wait.” She came back into focus, a questioning smile on her lips with her head cocked to one side. “Um, just curious. Do you have any contact with the game itself?”

Her eyes sparkled briefly and her lips twitched up very slightly, “Of course not.” It seemed like an obvious lie to Seamus. “Was that all, Seamus?”

“Do you ever speak to Alvin Brouch at Mindblown Entertainment?”

“I do speak with Alvin at times,” she replied.

“Next time you do, tell him thanks for this chance please. I know he had a hand in making sure I was the one selected.”

Victoria’s smile could have lit the sky, “How sweet of you, Seamus. I shall indeed pass along your words to him. I am going, but I will leave you with one last question of my own. Who else at Mindblown could have heard about you and helped tip the scales in your favor?” With that cryptic question, she vanished as did the study.

Seamus sat in still blackness considering her words, trying to think if he had met any friend of Alvin’s who could have helped him. His mind chugged along for a bit before sleep claimed him, dragging him off to dreams of Victoria’s smile as he completed each scenario.

Character Creation

Seamus found himself floating in blackness, well floating was wrong as he didn’t feel weightless, but with nothing to give perspective and no feeling on any of his limbs he couldn’t find another way to describe it. The blackness flashed white for a second all but blinding him, then he was spiraling down towards a green-blue world. It wasn’t earth, not with the continents shaped as they were, but it seemed to be earth like. He smiled as a title image appeared over the planet, ‘Alpha World’. He felt anticipation grow as the world faded away leaving him in a blank room looking at an avatar of the average human male.

“Okay character creation time,” Seamus whispered to himself as he walked around the nude character. “Let's see what the other races look like as well.”

Seamus switched the race option to dwarf and did a walk around the small fireplug, adjusting the height to the maximum five foot and shook his head. “Too short, good shoulders though. Not for me this time.”

Going to elf next Seamus laughed out loud at the pointedly thin figure. “Hell I could attack with the cheek and chin of this character.” Seamus played with the face creation for a time before shaking his head as each face still seemed too feminine to him.

Finally he ended up with the Lunari, cat-people, to find them mostly human looking. The difference was the tail, the coating of downy fur, cat ears on top of the head and the retractable razor sharp claws on their hands. “Feisty kitty,” Seamus muttered before switching back to human. “Let's go with the basic human.”

“Average, just like me. Let’s get the features a little more in line with how I looked when I passed the academy all those years ago.” He left the height alone at the five foot seven inch mark, he toned the muscles and slimmed them down to that of a martial artist, rather than the more heavily muscled form it had been. He shifted the hair to a light brown and made it a buzz cut as was his preferred style. He gave the avatar a neatly trimmed beard and mustache along with a small scar on the right side of his forehead going from hairline to temple. A pair of misty grey eyes that were unnerving to look at, he had always wanted those over the blue eyes he had been born with, so why not take them here? He did another walk around, approving of what he saw. He paused as he considered the mature rating of the game. Shaking his head, he left the more adult parts alone figuring since he was born average he might as well keep the game avatar the same, at least he knew how to use what he had.

Touching a green button floating just in his peripheral vision opened a window before him with a keyboard asking him to name his avatar. Seamus considered it then smiled, using the name he had in a previous game, Alburet. As he hit accept on the name he felt his awareness shift to the avatar. The room around him shifted as well to show lockers with all sorts of different equipment, each one labeled to a different class. Nodding at how the class choice section was laid out, he went locker to locker to check the starting gear and the tag in each that described the class. Elementalist, a mage who focused on fire, earth, air and water magics for offense but with little defense, a pure damage dealing class. Seamus skipped that one, knowing he would probably end up solo more than most as he wouldn’t have time limitations like others. Being solo meant that he would have to be much more self-sufficient than a glass cannon could be.

He bypassed the Berserker, knowing it was going to be the melee equivalent of the Elementalist, heavy on damage but no healing or mitigation. Necromancer, now that could be fun, but if the game really did bring over all the senses then smelling the dead all the time was not going to work. Which was too bad, really, as pet classes were traditionally better at solo game play but not as useful in big group content. Defender was the pure tank class based around holding the attention of monsters while mitigating the damage the monsters did. Downside there being that they really needed a healer to keep them going. Sighing, Seamus moved on, dismissing the classes one by one as he did. He paused at the Assassin class though, a master of stealth and fast kills would be useful indeed. However, they were not good in any multi-enemy combat or against any big mobs in a solo game style. Sure, you could basically one-shot things around your level if you built the character right, but after that first shot they ended up like cloth wearers, too damned squishy to live long. Seamus marked it as his first back up if the other classes failed to deliver him real viability.

Two classes were all that was left for him to check, with only the Assassin having given him any real interest so far. Paladin… Seamus hated the lawful stupid class that Paladin ended up being in most role playing games. So self-righteous, with a need to right every wrong they came across while upholding the law. But as he looked at the class description he grinned, Paladins here could serve any god of the world, not just the good gods. The restriction to the class was you had to obey the edicts of your god or lose your abilities until you atoned. They were plate wearing tanks slightly less reliable than the Defender, but they made up for it with some healing and utility abilities. Seamus considered it as he leafed through the pamphlet in the locker about all the different gods. There seemed to be a god for almost everything, which was nice for players. Seamus predicted a whole lot of people playing Paladin at least to start with, until they violated the dogma of their chosen god and had to atone to get their abilities back.

Chuckling, he went to the last locker, the one for the Summoner class. It was the only other pet class that Alpha World had, which made Seamus take a closer look at it. Summoner, a mage who made pacts with the infernal realm to bring demons into his service. The demons themselves had individual stats and abilities as well as loyalty ratings. The loyalty was a bit vague, only saying it made a difference in how it affected the happiness of the minion. Along with summoning demons, the Summoner used buffs for him and his pets while applying debuffs to the enemies, as well as a few damage spells to round them out. Seamus considered the possibilities for a moment, a pet class was a go to for soloing as you could always sacrifice the pet to run away if needed. Cloth wasn’t great for soloing, but if he was able to summon multiple pets then he had a real chance at never having to worry about being hit past the first few levels. He flipped through the class pamphlet to see when he would get his first summon, at level three he would get the spell to summon a least imp as his first pet.

Seamus put the class pamphlet back in the locker and turned to look at the Paladin and Assassin again. After a few minutes he decided against the Assassin, too reliant on the first big hit and as he didn’t want to do player killing, he set the option aside. So Paladin or Summoner were the two options he liked the most for his foray into Alpha World. Plate wearing tank in service to a god, or a man who summoned demons to do his bidding. It really wasn't much of a choice, after all he had never been a god fearing man. Walking back to the Summoner locker, he picked up the pamphlet and pressed his palm into the area for it on the last page. A green floating button appeared asking him to confirm his choice, which he promptly did.

The world went dark around him as he found himself above the planet and descending towards it as the voice over kicked in. “The origins of Alpha World are lost in history. All anyone knows is that many races prowl the land, some worshiping good and some evil. Many find themselves in the middle of those polar opposites just trying to get along. You though, are a two-souled, a being blessed by the Creator to come from another plane to Alpha World. You are an adventurer, one of the blessed few who travel the world helping others out of kindness or for reward. Not even death can deter you from your chosen course of action. It is up to you how you spend your time here, though be warned that every action has its consequence.”

The world went dark again just before he touched the ground and a red clock appeared in front of him, counting down from twelve hours away. Seamus sighed, wondering if he would pass out again for the next twelve hours or just lay here looking at the clock. He hoped for either passing out or even being given the chance to just sit and read, either would be preferable to watching this stupid clock. As he thought that the room shifted back to the study where he had talked to Victoria before. This time he was dressed in the tattered starter robe of the Summoner.

“Welcome back, Seamus,” Victoria’s voice said from behind him. “I took the liberty of bringing you here while you waited. I know from our talks that you detest not being able to do things while waiting.”

Seamus looked back to see Victoria standing near the fire place behind him warming her hands, this time in a long ball gown of white. He smiled as he stood up and went to join her by the fire, feeling the warmth wash over him. “I thank you for that. I thought twelve hours of just looking at a clock a bit much. Question though, if you don’t mind,” he paused until she gave a consenting nod, “what happens if I die in game?”

“Your equipped items take a durability hit. All items have a set durability and can't be repaired, so it matters what you are using when you die. After the two minute resurrection timer passes you are sent to the closest spawn point you have found.”

“So they want to make people care for their equipment,” Seamus said. “Two or three sets of equipment per player really. Grinding stuff, dungeon stuff and maybe even best in slot raid stuff. Huh, good to know.”

“Also, I wanted to let you know that it has been decided to have you take a break every month for a day. We can extend the time between slightly if necessary to not interfere with any plans that you have made. I will be speaking with you at those times to see how you are holding up mentally. This is a key concern since physically we have all the equipment and staff needed to make sure your body stays well.”

“So every month we get to talk? That will be nice. Are we on screen right now, you know above my pod?”

“No, while you are here speaking with me you are not being watched,” Victoria replied.

“Twelve hours is a long time, but I should get a few hours nap in before launch, say fourish hours. So that leaves me with eight or so hours of time to kill. Would you like to play some chess?”

Victoria laughed, “Sure, but I won’t go easy on you.” She turned to the desk which now had a board on it, “You can be white.”

The next hour was one of pleasant frustration for Seamus as he found out she didn’t lie. She won every game. The first four games were over in a few minutes each as she brutalized him. The next few he played a little more randomly and she seemed puzzled for a bit as if trying to find his strategy before she pressed and beat him. The best he did was trade pieces well in the tenth game until she won again.

“Well, I feel very humble right now,” Seamus said shaking his head. “I concede. I will never challenge you in chess, how about something a little more random, like poker?”

“You handle the losing well, much better than others who have played me. Alvin sulked for a whole week after he played me the first time. I also accept the challenge of poker.” She waved her hand across the desk and the chess set vanished to be replaced by poker chips for each of them and a sealed deck of cards.

“Virtual is way easier than real,” Seamus murmured as he marveled over how easy it was for her to change things. “So let’s start with seven card stud, shall we?”

Two hours went by with Seamus winning a pot here or there but slowly losing his stack of chips to her. He never won a big pot during the entire time, which bothered him. “I have to ask how you always seemed to know when to fold or call my bluff.”

Victoria laughed, “I think a character from one of your favorite books said it best, ‘If you ain’t cheatin', then you ain’t tryin' hard enough’.”

Blinking, Seamus puzzled over the quote then laughed, “Shackleford from the Monster Hunter series, eh? So how were you cheating me?”

“All the cards are marked,” Victoria replied with a smirk. “For me, that is. I can see the code that denotes what they represent. Was that wrong of me?” She asked the last in a playful manner.

“Hmm, being taken advantage of by beautiful women is something of a habit for me, but yes it was still wrong of you. How about we go again with you promising not to cheat this time, to make up for it?”

“So a real test to see if I can read you without aid? I accept your challenge Seamus, but let us place a real wager on it shall we? If I win it all, you will answer any one question I have for you. If you win you can make up any reward you want.”

Laughing, Seamus nodded, “Agreed, divvy up the chips and let's go around again.”

The next three hours seemed much better with Seamus being able to bluff and win some big pots. In the end though, he lost his last chip when his straight was beaten out by her flush. “Well, at least I was able to bluff you this time.” Seamus said as he pushed his chair back some, “What did you want to ask?”

Vicky met his eyes, “Tell me about Kaylee. Why does she mean so much to you?”

Seamus felt his face close down as he looked away from her, “That is the second worst question you could ask me, Victoria.” His hands clenched causing his knuckles to pop as he tried to calm the flood of emotions. “Will you pick something else, please?”

“You promised any question, Seamus. I am not asking about the murder, but about the victim of the crime that lead to it. I will wait if you need a moment to calm down first.” Her tone was calm and full of care, which only made things worse.

“I wouldn’t even know where to start,” Seamus said, his voice rough as he choked back the anger and sadness that threatened to overwhelm him.

“How did you meet her father?”

“David? A gaming group, ironically enough. We both knew a couple that held a weekly gaming group at their house. We ended up playing D&D there the first time we met each other. I still don’t know why we hit it off. We just seemed to click, being able to work well together as a team. After a few months we started talking about some of our other hobbies. Both of us had gun collections so we went shooting. We played a few non-VR games, as that was before VR really went big. I met his daughter when she was five, he had finally got partial custody of her. So he got her on the weekends and alternate holidays. Kaylee was the best child I’ve ever met in my life, she didn’t act up or cause issues in any way. She didn’t pout, have tantrums or anything like that. When she started going to school David noticed she seemed bored. He put her into a private school which helped, she was an amazingly fast learner. She was a math prodigy, able to dissect advanced math with ease even in elementary school.”

Seamus got up and walked over to the fire, “When she was about to go into junior high, she was already doing calculus at David’s during the weekends. She loved to learn and was always pushing herself to do more. I came over every Saturday, Uncle Seamus she called me, and the three of us would go out to do stuff. Movies, shooting, amusement parks, all sorts of things. She was the child I never had and her father was my best friend. It was kind of funny, how many times we got asked which of us was her father when we went out. She had the brightest of futures before her, the stars themselves would have been in her grasp if not…” Seamus cut off shaking in rage as the images of her in the hospital crying and asking him to leave came to him. He lashed out blindly striking the stone mantle of the fireplace, which broke his knuckles like dry kindling.

Victoria was by his side in an instant, literally, speaking softly to him as she gently touched his hand that he held to his chest as tears spilled from his eyes. “I’m sorry, Seamus. I pushed even though you asked me not to because I wanted to know. I hope you will forgive me,” her voice was full of care as his pain vanished, his hand healing instantly as her fingers ran over it. “I will leave you alone if you want?”

Seamus turned away from her, shaking as he tried to shut his emotions off again. He had always been a little prone to rage and grief, but since Kaylee’s attack he had not been able to hold them in check like he used too. He shook his head once, “Just give me a moment, please.” He wiped at his tear streaked face, taking deep breaths to stop the shakes. He flinched slightly as her thumbs dug into his shoulders hitting the knots he had there. He didn’t stop her as he felt her relentlessly attack the tight muscles with firm steady hands. Minutes went by as he slowly regained control of himself again with her help. “Thank you, Vicky,” he said softly, stepping away from her hands.

“It might be best if I go rest for a bit,” Seamus said softly, “thank you for your hospitality before I lashed out. Maybe I will be better company when next we talk.”

“Okay. I’m sorry for pushing you, Seamus, I didn’t know just how badly it would affect you.” Her voice was tinged with sadness as she spoke. “As a show of peace, can I give you a hint for the game?”

Turning, Seamus met her eyes, seeing concern and worry in hers. “You don’t need to Vicky. I’m fine now and will not hold anything against you.”

“When you get to summon your demons choose the most loyal ones you can, even if they aren’t as good as the others stat wise. Loyalty is very important for Summoners. I will see you again in time Seamus, until then enjoy the game as much as you can. This will be a huge step in the progress of helping the infirm if the test works as it should.” She smiled then turned away from him pausing as she asked the next question in a shy voice, “May I watch you as you play?”

Seamus chuckled slightly, “I get a choice?”

Vicky’s voice gave the impression that she was embarrassed, “Yes.”

A smile came to Seamus’s face and he let the warmth he felt come through in his voice, “I don’t see how that will entertain you as I’ll probably make more than a few mistakes, but yes, watch to your heart’s content. Just next time please stay away from the two questions I don’t want to talk about.”

She turned to face him, her smile bright as she raised a hand as if to say goodbye, “Thank you, Seamus.” As she finished speaking Seamus felt the room slip away from him and he noted the clock blinking away with five hours still to go before sleep claimed him.

Seamus came back to his senses to find the clock blinking as it counted down the last minute before early access launched. He wondered what kind of starting area he was going to be in, he recalled being told that he would be in a dungeon at the start of the game. As the clock kept ticking Seamus could feel his excitement start to rise, he was about to have a taste of freedom again. A whole world waiting for him to explore it while the staff kept tabs on him to see if this long term immersion was viable. He said a silent prayer, even though he didn’t believe in God, praying for this to work so Kaylee could have a full life again. He watched as the last ten seconds ticked away one by one until they vanished, leaving him in darkness.

Game On

Alburet came to in the dark, with a faint, flickering light coming from a narrow gap at the bottom of a door. Letting his eyes adjust, he could make out a small square room. The small straw pile he lay on was the only thing in it. The door was thick wood with three iron bands reinforcing it. He could make out a status bar in his left peripheral vision that held his name and two colored bars, one red and the other blue.

“Game on,” Alburet whispered with a smile. He wondered how to open the character screen when a see through panel came into being before him showing his character. Looking it over, he was able to quickly take in all the important details.

Alburet

Human Summoner

Level 1

Strength: 5

Agility: 5

Constitution: 6

Intelligence: 15

Wisdom: 15

Charisma: 19

Health: 110

Mana: 200

Spells:

Demon Skin

Abilities:

None

Alburet touched the health number on the character screen and a tool-tip popped up: “Out of combat you will regenerate 10% of your total health every second.” He checked Mana and got a similar message, but with a little more info: “During combat you will regenerate mana based on your wisdom stat.” Alburet tapped Wisdom to see what it would tell him there: “Your mana will regenerate at 1.5% of your total mana every second in combat. Total mana pool based on Wisdom.”

Each stat had helpful information when he checked them. Strength added to melee combat damage at a factor of 10%, minimum one. Agility did the same for ranged combat, while Intelligence gave 10% bonus damage to spells. Charisma gave a bonus to influencing NPCs in conversation and when meeting them for the first time. Constitution was the way to get more health at a ten to one ratio, while each level gave a flat 50 more health on top of that.

Tapping his spell, Alburet read the description then blinked when he got to the end of it. “Demon Skin: This spell hardens your skin, taking on the appearance and nature of true demon skin. Mana cost: 50. Duration: 1 hour. Adds 10 armor to base rating. Does not stack with other armor, whichever value is higher will be used to determine armor value. Self target only. To use this spell press your hands to your chest and say the words “Demon Skin.”

“So, built to the lowest common denominator,” Alburet sighed. He then pressed his hands to his chest and spoke the words. As the words left his mouth he felt a small pulse from his hands, looking down he could make out his normal skin darkening as it thickened some. An icon appeared under his mana bar, informing him he now had the buff Demonic Skin.

Wondering about notifications, Alburet noticed a small blue square in his lower right vision which was blinking. Touching it opened up a slew of messages, he scrolled back to the top and read through them.

Dear tester,

You are in the Forgotten Prison. As your starting location is non-standard you have no equipment besides the robe on your back. You will have to figure a way out on your own and pick up equipment as you try to gain your freedom. Thank you for assisting Mindblown Entertainment with our test.

Good luck, Mindblown Entertainment CEO Stephan Colart.

Thank you for completing the early access evaluation. Your actions during the evaluation have netted you increased base statistics.

1 extra Constitution gained.

5 extra Intelligence gained.

5 extra wisdom gained.

14 extra charisma gained.

We hope you enjoyed the evaluations and wish you luck in Alpha World.

Alburet chuckled. Well, at least the time with Vicky had given him some really nice boosts. So he had to figure a way out of this forgotten prison on his own. Standing up, Alburet stretched and smirked. “Let's get started, shall we?” he muttered to himself as he advanced on the door, wondering how he was going to get it open.

Quest: Escape the cell.

Reward: One hundred XP.

Chuckling at his first quest, Alburet examined the door. He frowned when he found there was nothing on the inside to grab or hold. Just a spot for a key in the door, and not having anything to even try picking the lock he was at a loss. “Well fuck, now what?”

Alburet hammered on the door with his fist, getting a surprise as 0's appeared floating in the air before him. The same blue square he had the messages in began to flash again. Stopping his hammering, he opened up the message box.

You hit door for 2 damage, door unharmed due to armor value of 25.

You hit door for 2 damage, door unharmed due to armor value of 25.

You hit door for 2 damage, door unharmed due to armor value of 25.

You hit door for 2 damage, door unharmed due to armor value of 25.

You hit door for 2 damage, door unharmed due to armor value of 25.

Sighing, Alburet sat on the floor as he closed the message box and looked for a way to open the options menu. As he thought about it, a new pop-up appeared in front of him. Nodding, Alburet went through the options and set the combat messages to be mostly translucent and go by in his lower left peripheral. He set the damage received messages to red, along with any status effects that would affect him. He could now ignore them or pay attention to them as needed.

He pulled up the sensory options, noting that they were set to the maximum and grayed out to his touch. Shrugging, he shifted to all the other options and noted a mini-map button. Toggling it on, he saw a translucent small map icon pop up in his upper right vision. It showed a small room with him in it and that was it. “Fog of war, eh?” Alburet mumbled.

As he closed down the menus, he heard a faint scraping sound in the hall. Laying on the floor he looked through the four inch tall gap under the door to see hallway stretching off in both directions. To his left and moving toward him was a set of bone feet dragging a thin chain behind it. As it neared, Alburet was able to make out the skeleton with tatters of cloth on it walking, dragging the chain behind it. Watching as the skeleton drew closer, Alburet was surprised when a small icon of the creature appeared next to his status bars. It had a name and a single red bar next to a picture of the mob, Lost Key Holder.

As the feet moved past his door, just out of reach, Alburet could see a key at the end of the chain, scraping across the floor behind the skeleton. He strained, thrusting his arm as far out under the door as he could but missed the key. Panting, he slid back and looked out again. He could see the dust on the floor disturbed by his arm, he had fallen an inch or two short of where the drag line for the key had been.

Alburet watched the skeleton continue on its way without pausing. Sitting back up, he tried to think of a way to get the key if the skeleton came back. His arm wasn't long enough obviously, and the room didn't contain anything of use. Brooding for a moment, Alburet tried to think of a way to snag an extra inch or two. Shaking his head he wished for items that would make a difference that he obviously didn't have. After all the only thing in the room was the ragged straw pile he had woken on and the tattered robe he was wearing.

Chuckling, Alburet stripped his tattered robe off and fashioned it into a loop as best he could. It gave him a foot of reach and a way to either trip the skeleton or snag the key. Maybe. Smiling, he lay back down and slid the makeshift trap into the hall. After a few attempts he got it into the path of the mob and settled in for the wait.

Time seemed to drag as he lay there waiting, the cold stone floor chilling him slightly as he waited. The demon skin didn't stop him from feeling temperature, sadly. He began to drum his fingers on the floor as he waited impatiently. “Stupid fucking starting place, trapped in a room with only one way out,” he groused to himself.

Eventually he heard the scraping sound coming this time from his right. Grinning, he made sure he was ready to yank the robe back to him. He was going to try for the skeleton as it only had 90 health and would be an easier target to snag then the key. He was still grinning when he could make out in the flickering light the skeleton’s feet approaching him.

Alburet could feel the tingle of anticipation he always felt before a fight as he watched the feet draw closer. When the skeleton stepped into the makeshift noose he tugged with everything he had. He felt the resistance as the skeleton was caught and tumbled to the floor along with the clatter of bones striking stone. He began to reel in the robe quickly, drawing the skeleton’s foot under the door, into the room with him. Grabbing it with one hand, Alburet reached out with his other searching for the chain.

The skeleton kicked at him with its other foot, connecting with his searching arm. Wincing at the impact, Alburet noted two health tick off his bar. Growling, he yanked on the leg he was holding and felt the door rattle at the impact of the skeleton hitting the other side. “Take that, fucker,” he said under his breath as his hand finally found the metal chain.

Just as he began to pull the chain into the room, his hand was grabbed and he felt teeth sink into it. “Fucker,” Alburet yelled as 2 damage ticked off his life bar, but he refused to open the hand holding the chain.

Pulling with his hand holding the chain, Alburet was surprised to see the skeleton head still attached to his hand as he retracted it into the room. Letting go of the robe he lashed out with his left hand at the biting skeleton. He noted a four point dip in the skeleton's health bar as his hand connected with the skull.

The guardian of the key began to grind its jaw on his hand, causing Alburet to cry out in pain as he felt the teeth begin to saw into his hand, breaking the skin and drawing blood. Another 2 damage ticked off his life. Eyes going wide in pain, Alburet grabbed the skull with his left hand and bashed it against the floor as hard as he could, taking another fraction of life from it. The impact caused the skull’s teeth to cut further into his hand, doing another point of damage.

The two of them continued to trade damage as the skeleton refused to release his hand from its teeth as Alburet kept smashing its head into the floor. When the skeleton was down to twenty health left, it released his hand and tried retreat back under the door.

Tears of pain and rage dripping from his eyes, Alburet cursed it, “Not today, fucker.” Releasing the chain, he grabbed its skull in both hands as he braced his feet on the door and shoved off, trying to pull the head off the body. After a moment of resistance he went sliding across the floor with a skull trophy in his hands.

As the head came free, the body stopped moving and collapsed to the floor. Alburet lay there panting and bleeding from his severely lacerated hand. After a moment he sat up, noting his health bar slowly replenishing when he noticed the blinking square again.

You have defeated the Lost Key Holder, gain 100 XP.

Alburet disabled the XP notifications, thinking that would get old fast. He could always check his XP by opening the character tab, if he wanted to. A few seconds later the pain went away and his hand seemed uninjured as his health pool became full again. “Vanishing pain, thank gods,” Alburet muttered as he went back over to the door and pulled the chain to him. He discovered it was wrapped around the skeleton's spine and broke it free. Key in hand, he stood up to unlock the door then opened it and stepped out into the hall.

Quest Completed: Escape the cell.

Receive: One hundred XP.

Smiling at the quest pop-up, he waved it away to check his options for moving forward. A dusty hall went off to the left and right with other doors evenly on both sides in both directions along with flickering torches. “Well, first mission accomplished, now to find my way out,” he muttered before looking down at the bones and grinning. Bending down, he went to rip a femur free only to have the corpse vanish while a small bag appeared. Frowning, he touched the bag and was suddenly holding a Femur Club which made him smile. “Acquired: one makeshift weapon,” he chuckled, “but no chain. Damn, it would have been useful.” Setting the club aside, he picked up his robe and untied it before donning it.

Quest: Escape the Intake Wing.

Reward: Five Hundred XP.

Club in hand and dressed again, he debated which way to go. He finally turned left in honor of his friend David, who always went left in dungeons. Going to the next door he tried the key, which unlocked the door, only to find an empty room. “Viewing slits would have been a good idea, game designers,” he muttered as he went door to door, checking each room in case there was anything worthwhile.

On the fifth door he found a skeleton climbing to its feet. Alburet charged in before it could rise and brought the club down on its skull firmly. He watched ten percent of its life vanish from the hit, causing him to chuckle. “So some of the old inmates are mobile as well. Guess I should be a bit more careful.” He muttered, dodging back as the skeleton swiped at him with its hands. The ID of the mob told him it was an Intake Skeleton level 1, 90/100 health.

The fight was short, with Alburet only taking minimal damage thanks to the Demon Skin spell negating most of the incoming damage and being able to deal out more damage with the femur. He checked the log, noting the first hit to the skeleton's head had been a critical which doubled the damage. He got another Femur Club off the skeleton he had just killed. He also noted a crack in the femur he had been using. He examined it more closely, which prompted another pop-up.

Femur Club

4 Damage

4/10 Durability

“So each new kill will net me a new weapon, that's handy,” Alburet mumbled to himself.

He cleared all the rooms down the left hall, only finding one more Intake Skeleton. The hallway turned right and ended in a large door with a vision port in it. Peeking in, he could make out a large room that was mostly shrouded in darkness. Backing away from the door, he decided to go back and check the other way first. Three skeletons and many rooms later he found himself at a dead end. “Well, that answers that question,” he muttered to himself as he retraced his steps and dropped the femur that only had 1 durability left on it. He pulled another one from one of the holes he had torn in his robe to hold more femurs. He waited and watched the in-game clock to see how long it took a dropped item to despawn. Five minutes later he had his answer and was wondering if he could cheat the system by picking up and re-dropping an item to extend the time. Something to test later when he had an expendable item.

Before he made it back to the dark room he pulled a torch from a wall sconce so he could have some light with him. He smirked, thinking back to some of the fucked up things his GM of the old D&D group had run them through. This place would have fit right in.

Stopping at the door, he glanced in seeing straw pallets lined up evenly along the walls which made him think of a very poor barracks. Pushing on the door, it opened with a tortured screech of rusty hinges. It was odd, as no other door he had opened had done that. Pushing the door all the way open, he put the torch before him into the room to get a better view.

Sure enough, looked like a barracks crossed with a living space. The pallets had what looked like bits of tattered cloth over the straw, and just at the edge of the torch light he could make out the shattered remains of what might have been a table. He waited a moment, but didn't see any movement. Still, he didn't trust the situation.

Without stepping into the room, he tossed a torch towards the remains of the table. It spun, making crazy shadows before it landed on the wood, which began to smolder. As the table caught fire, Alburet could see one skeleton rising all the way across the room. He targeted the new mob, a level 3 Decayed Guard, which had tattered pieces of leather armor and carried a wooden club as it started to shamble towards him. “Fuck, two levels above me and equipped,” he muttered, stepping into the room and casting about for anything useful.

Not seeing anything useful ready to hand, Alburet grimaced and swung on the Decayed Guard as it came into range. Trading blows with the Guard taught him something very quickly, that he didn't stand a chance in a straight up fight. Alburet's attacks weren't doing the normal 5 damage, instead only doing 1 while the guard pummeled him for 6 with each hit it landed.

Backing up, Alburet tried to break the combat so he could run only to be pummeled as the mob kept advancing with him. A minute later Alburet was a ghost floating above his corpse and letting out a deep sigh as a two minute clock counted down. He was able to see the guard shamble back across the room and lay back down on its pallet thanks to the small fire from the table. Two minutes later, Alburet found himself back in his cell. A quick inventory showed that he had all of his stuff, including the femur he had been using which was down to one durability.

“Okay, I need a plan,” he muttered as he pulled the combat log up and looked it over. The leather the skeleton was wearing blocked 4 damage from each of his attacks due to the armor rating. He needed a way to get rid of the leather the thing was wearing so he at least had a chance. If he could find a way to disarm it even better, as the high damage it did was an issue.

He brooded for a moment, considering all of his options. What did he have access to that could help him he thought as he chewed his bottom lip. Sitting back, he shifted his seat which slid him slightly. Looking down he found himself sitting on the straw that had been in each room he had checked. A plan formed in his mind causing him to chuckle before he set out to prep his battlefield.

Once he had everything prepared, Alburet picked up two torches from the far side of the wing. He tossed one as far across the room as he could, aiming towards the pallet the guard should be on. The torch spun wildly as it flew, landing on the cloth covered straw pallet the guard lay on. It went up instantly in flame, causing the mob to clamber to its feet. Each second it was in the flame it lost five health.

Grinning, knowing his plan would work, Alburet drew a femur with his free hand and waited as the Decayed Guard crossed the room. As the Decayed Guard came into range, Alburet dropped the torch onto the flammable pile of straw under the mob, taking a half step back as it went up in a blaze.

The mob was down to 320 of 350 health, and the fire was steadily taking its toll on both the creature and its armor. The fire was uncomfortable to be near but wasn't actively hurting Alburet, so he swung on the guard and was parried.

Grimacing, Alburet took a hit to the left arm which did 5 points of damage. Obviously, this one had more Constitution and Strength than the other skeletons he had fought. Alburet focused on trying to parry the attacks while letting the fire damage the guard for him.

By the time the fire had burned out, the guard no longer had leather armor and its club vanished into a puff of ash. The damage the guard was doing to Alburet dropped off to two per hit with the loss of its club. The guard also only had 100/350 health left, while Alburet had 50.

Alburet focused all his attacks on the Decayed Guard’s head. Each blow to the head was a critical, which did 10 damage. The guard mindlessly attacked Alburet’s chest, only doing 2 damage with each swipe. When the Decayed Guard finally collapsed into a heap, Alburet was on the verge of passing out with only 30 health left. As the skeleton hit the floor, Alburet was engulfed in a bright light and a loud DING echoed in his ears. When the sound and light faded he found he was fully healed.

Laughing, Alburet shook his head, “Level two in under an hour after leaving the first room, nice.” He quickly opened his character sheet to find he had five stat points to distribute as well as a new spell. He checked the spell first, while he considered how to divvy up his stat points.

The spell was called Demonic Retribution and did five fire damage, ignoring all armor to anyone who attacked the one buffed with the spell. It cost 15 of his mana, but stayed up for five minutes. Alburet wondered if he could place it on his imp when he got one next level. He checked the casting requirements; slapping his hands together along with speaking the word ‘Retribution’ were the required steps to activate it, then touch the one he wanted to buff. He cast the spell on himself before turning back to his stat points.

Alburet chuckled over the fact he was still basically four levels higher stat wise than he should be. He shrugged and evened out the outliers on his stats for now, bringing Constitution and Charisma up to 10 and 20 respectively.

Once he was done placing his stats points, he checked the loot, gaining a new Femur Club. He snagged a torch before crossing the ashes of the fire that helped him defeat the mob. He entered the room and began to search it for useful items.

The room was fairly large, with over twenty pallets along the walls where he supposed guards would have been if this place was still running, so it took Alburet some time to search. In the end all he found was a Dirty Satchel that had been tucked into a corner. Inside was aged meat, a flask that sloshed slightly as he shook it, and there were eight other spots for things in the grid that appeared when he looked inside the bag as well as ten copper which showed on a counter along the bottom of the grid. Slinging the satchel over his shoulder, he transferred all but two femurs into it, leaving one in easy reach tucked through one of the holes in his robe while he equipped the other into his main hand.

He crossed to the only other exit from the room, a set of double doors. As he neared the doors, he passed the burned out remnants of the pallet and saw a glint from the ashes. Stopping to investigate, he brushed the ashes away, revealing a slightly larger key. After that find, he took the time to shred the other pallets, finding a rusty pitted dagger for his trouble along with another ten copper. He examined the dagger, nodding at what he saw.

Rusty Pitted Dagger

8 Damage

25/50 Durability

He reached the door and wasn’t surprised to find it locked. The key hole looked perfect for the key he had just picked up. Inserting the key, he twisted it in the lock and heard a bolt snap open. Chuckling, he pushed the door open.

Quest Completed: Escape the Intake Wing.

Receive: Five Hundred XP.

The doors groaned open as he pushed against them. He found a large hallway easily forty feet wide stretching out before him. There were two five foot wide sections of a different colored stone on the floor, adjacent to the walls. Laughing, he shook his head as it reminded him of the guiding lines in jails and prisons. “You guys are funny, going to this length in this area.” He chuckled as he stepped into the five foot section that prisoners were supposed to walk in. Might as well keep up appearances, he thought, besides the other section of floor might be trapped to trigger if a non-guard walked on it.

Quest: Escape the Forgotten Prison.

Reward: Two Thousand XP.

Thirty feet down the hall he came to a door with a plaque on it. The plaque identified the room as Records. Alburet considered going in, waffling between escaping or exploring. Who knows, he thought, this place might be closed to him once he did escape and that decided him. “Fuck it,” he said softly as he pushed on the door, causing it to open inward.

Alburet

Human Summoner

Level 2

Strength: 5

Agility: 5

Constitution: 10

Intelligence: 15

Wisdom: 15

Charisma: 20

Health: 200

Mana: 250

Spells:

Demon Skin

Demonic Retribution

Abilities:

None

Exploring

The door swung open silently, making Alburet leery. Stepping into the room he saw it was mostly empty, a single chest along the back wall and a desk with chair the only furniture. The only other thing of note was the Skeletal Clerk that was standing up from the desk, level two with 150/150 health. It held a letter opener in one hand and a tome in the other like a shield as it advanced towards Alburet.

Setting the torch down carefully so it wouldn't go out, Alburet quickly cast his Demonic Retribution and Demon Skin before arming himself with the dagger and a femur. He’d thought about using the torch as a weapon, but the book might have useful info and he didn't want to burn it. When the skeleton got into range it lunged at Alburet with the letter opener. Batting aside the strike with his femur, Alburet returned an attack with the dagger. Alburet chuckled happily as he saw the dagger inflict full damage, 9 points, to the mob.

The next couple of seconds were parries and blocks by each of the combatants, until the skeleton landed a slight puncture on Alburet. Two things happened as the blade pierced him, firstly Alburet grimaced- this was the first time he’d been stabbed here, and it hurt. Secondly a flame flickered out from the wound, traveling up the skeleton's arm and bursting in a small pop on its chest, damaging it. Alburet lashed out with his dagger as the mob withdrew the letter opener for another attack, landing a hit clean to its head.

After landing the critical Alburet started to fight more defensively, not wanting to get stabbed again. The earlier damage, while it had hurt, was mostly blunt trauma which had almost been like full contact sparring in a dojo. Well, minus the first one where his hand had been getting shredded by teeth. Blocking the next attack, Alburet waited, not taking the small openings which would leave him vulnerable to counters.

The fight took longer than it should have, but he only ended up getting stabbed one more time. Grimacing until his health returned to full and the pain went away, Alburet shook his head. “Full pain sensory at low levels is fucking wrong, so you know my somewhat benevolent overlords.” he said out loud, knowing that the medical staff could hear him.

He looted the mob, which netted him the letter opener, book and a new Femur Club. Picking up the torch, he examined the desk and was disappointed to discover it had no drawers and nothing on it. Setting the book down, he turned to the chest along the back wall. He nudged the lid and found the thing locked, sighing he knelt down and looked more closely at the lock. It was rusty and pitted but still held the chest closed and he didn't have a key.

Sitting down before the chest, Alburet inserted the letter opener and began to fiddle with it seeing if he could make the lock pop. After several minutes he’d made no progress so decided to try bashing the chest with a femur to try and break it open. The top of the chest crumbled inward after half a dozen blows.

The chest contained eight silver, six scrolls, a dry inkwell along with a stylus and a small shield that fit in the palm of his hand. The front of the shield was engraved with an inscription, 'Trusted Guard' and had a pin on the back so it could be attached to clothing. Chuckling, Alburet attached the shield to the front of his robe. “I'm a guard again, surely this won't go badly,” Alburet laughed as he added the silver to his bag along with the letter opener before grabbing the scrolls.

Carrying them to the desk, Alburet opened the first five which turned out to be lists of people, listing height, weight and a short description of their crimes. The sixth one was about him, describing in detail the crime he had committed in the real world. He read through it once, his facing going hard before he placed it on the ground and applied the torch to it, causing it to go up in flame quickly. “Fuck you very much for that, Mindblown,” he muttered.

Turning to the book, he opened it to find a history of the Prison he was trying to escape. Imperial Prison Alctriuz had been founded in the year 50 Imperial Reckoning by decree of the Emperor Augustus the First. Flipping to the back of the book, Alburet found it ended with the prison’s completion in the year 75 IR. It was designated to hold the very worst of the Empire’s criminals. Shrugging, he placed it in his bag along with the letter opener, maybe it would be worth something if he reached a city.

Standing back up while stretching, Alburet made sure to keep the dagger in his main hand as he left the room. Stepping across the line that should divide inmates from guards, he adjusted the badge on his robe and started down the hallway again. Another fifty feet brought him to another door that held a plaque denoting it as Processing.

He pushed the door open to find a decent sized room with three desks, two of which were broken. The sole remaining desk had a Skeletal Clerk seated at it. The skeleton glanced at him then looked away and continued to sit there. Alburet shifted into a defensive posture as it looked at him, but as it looked away a grin came over his face. Walking into the room, he noted a Decayed Guard along a back wall next to a door marked Property.

Walking over to the door Alburet pushed on the door to find it locked. Frowning he turned and saw the key on a chain around the clerk's collar bone. Pursing his lips, Alburet tried to think of a way to get the key that wouldn't start a fight. He glanced at the Decayed Guard, noting the same rotting leather and club the previous one had had. He still didn't have a chance of taking them both on at once, not with the guard having armor and a club. Simply asking for the key crossed his mind, but he dismissed the idea. If this place operated anything like real world jails, it wouldn’t work as the one who had the key was responsible for everything in that area.

Walking through the room, Alburet didn't see anything obviously useful. Stopping, he scratched at his chin and considered his options again. He really wanted into the property room, there should be something worthwhile in there at least. Chewing his lip, he glanced at the room again, when his eyes went back to the broken desks. Chuckling, he began to move the wood to the doorway. Once he had it shifted, he went back to the barracks room and started shifting a few pallets to his pile of wood. Nodding to himself, he went back into the room, making sure he had a clear run to the door.

Rebuffing himself with his spells, he walked up next to the guard that was still ignoring him. Once he was ready, he attacked with the dagger right to the guard's skull. He blinked as the combat log showed 36 damage done, not stopping to figure it out he ran for the door. The guard turned and began to move after him followed by the clerk. Once he was past the debris, Alburet turned and waited for the two skeletons to reach him. Once both were on top of the trap he touched the torch to the pallets and watched the whole thing go up in flame. Using the torch as a club Alburet focused on parrying the guard’s attacks as it stood on the edge of the fire. Taking a few hard hits, Alburet grunted in pain as he let the fire do the hard work for him as it ate away at the health of the two mobs who stood in it mindlessly.

By the time the fire died out both mobs were dead and Alburet had regained his health lost to the guard. As he waited for the ashes to cool he blinked when the badge on his robe vanished in a haze of dust. “What the fuck?” he muttered, trying to figure out why the badge would vanish. Chewing his lip as he thought, the only thing he could come up with that since he attacked the guard he was no longer trusted or viewed as a guard. “Well fuck it, I hope the Property room is worth it.”

He felt a rumble from his belly, frowning he glanced at his buff bar. Two new icons were there indicating he was Hungry as well as Thirsty. The debuffs indicated that he had six hours to find food and drink or he would be hit with a Parched debuff as well as a Starving debuff. He nodded, Vicky had told him about the issue with food for long term immersion. He had six hours and he didn't know how much longer he would be here so he ignored it for now.

A few minutes later he was able to touch the ash without being burned so he sifted through it until he found the key for the room. Briefly, he wished that the burned out wood and straw vanished like the bodies of the mobs he’d killed. Taking the key, he approached the door with a smirk as he used it to unlock the door before pushing it open.

There were open containers all along the walls on the floor as well as on shelves. The first one was engraved with a numeral 1, then next had a 2 and so on around the room. “Just like my old property room. Wait, my ID number on that scroll had been thirteen,” Alburet went down to the bin with a 13 on it and pulled it off the shelf.

Inside he found a small glass vial filled with a red liquid, a small vial with a blue liquid, a small polished stone with a house etched into it, a slim leather bound book and soft leather boots. He looked at the boots, smiling as the description popped up for him.

Preserved Soft Leather Boots- (armor 10 for feet) Durability 25/35

He slipped the boots onto his feet, nodding at how perfectly they fit. Once he was done he checked the other items to find out what they were. Examining the book caused a quest to pop for him.

Small Healing Potion- (Restores 50 health)

Small Mana Potion- (Restores 50 mana)

Homestone- (Returns the owner to last bind point. SOUL BOUND.)

Preserved book- (Maybe someone wants this.)

Quest: Find a person who wants this eldritch book.

Reward: Twenty Thousand XP.

Blinking at the quest, Alburet opened the book to see writing in a dark red ink in a language he couldn't even begin to understand. “It's not Greek, but it might as well be for all the good it does me,” he muttered to himself as he started to put it into his bag. When he tried to put the book into his bag it refused to go in.

Sighing, he pulled out some of the femurs he had been carrying, dropping them into his bin so he could add the book, potions and stone to his bag. Once that was done, he began to go through the room checking each bin. In total he found another five silver and 25 copper. There was a lot of ratty or decayed cloth and leather that didn't even show a value for selling them, so he left them. The only other thing of note in the room was a quarterstaff in a corner.

Worn Trusty Staff

15 Damage

50/100 Durability

He put the dagger away before he picked up the staff and felt better. “Not sure this will make up for the loss of the badge, but a better weapon and boots is worthwhile plus a quest with nice XP if I can get out of here,” he muttered before shaking his head, “Talking to oneself is a sign of insanity, right?” He chuckled darkly before he left the room and went back to the hallway.

He found no other rooms until he came to a set of double doors blocking his way forward. They had bars and glass set in them, so he peeked in to see a room with two Decayed Guards standing in the middle of the room. Considering his options, Alburet wondered if it was worth hauling more wood and straw down to the door to trap these two. Reluctantly, he decided it wasn’t worth the effort since the door was wide enough for the mobs to simply move around him.

He pondered the previous fights with the guards then the new weapon he had picked up. He would be able to deal way more damage than he had with the femurs. Add on top of that the fact they would be harming themselves when they hit him due to his Demonic Retribution spell and he smiled.

He opened the doors, which groaned loudly causing the two skeletons to turn to face him. Setting the torch down carefully, Alburet waited, but the skeletons didn't approach him. Taking a moment he applied his Retribution buff before he threw a copper at one of the guards. It glanced off the skeleton, who took a step toward him before returning to its starting spot and the single point of damage dealt to it healed.

Sighing, Alburet made sure he had a good grip on his staff as he ran into the room and swung it at the one on the right. The staff thunked off the skull soundly and Alburet noted the 32 damage done to it as both Guards turned to attack him. Alburet was suddenly glad he used to work out at the dojo closest to his home. The staff felt familiar in his hands as he wove his attacks while trying to mitigate the damage done to him.

The skeletons didn't go for any advanced tactics, standing side by side and swinging their clubs at him. That made things easier for Alburet as he concentrated on the one he’d attacked first, shifting around his opponents. The fight was mostly uninteresting as the skeletons never tried to flank him, allowing him to kill one, leveling as he did, then the other with only a few wounds to show for it.

This should be almost over, he figured, this would be the entrance area. Maybe a gated yard out the other set of double doors leading from this room but that should be it. A very basic layout for an intake area, but this one should be inside a gated compound connected to the main jail. The skeleton's loot only consisted of two unwieldy clubs, so he left them alone as they weren't worth any coin.

Taking a minute, he dropped his points into Constitution before he glanced at his new spell. Summon Least Imp: Mana cost: 10% of total mana pool while minion is active. Duration: Until dismissed. Allows the Summoner to summon a Least Imp to his side. Least Imps assist the Summoner by casting small fire blasts at visible foes. Alburet looked over the motions and words needed and blinked as there were two noted. The other one was listed as original use of spell, only used once and costing no mana.

Shrugging, Alburet mimed opening a book and spoke the words for first time use, “I summon the Infernal Retinue Society to aid me in my choosing of a minion.” He chuckled as he finished the words, as no one would summon the IRS and expect actual help.

A glowing red pentagram appeared on the floor and began to blaze with hellish light. Stepping back slightly, Alburet watched as a bipedal toad appeared inside the circle. It glanced at Alburet before perching a pair of spectacles on its face. “Ah a first timer, greetings to you Summoner. I'm Bettzle, the assistant tasked with picking the Infernal best suited to assist you. You are looking for a Least Imp, correct?”

“Greetings, Bettzle. I am indeed trying to find the Least Imp that will be my helper.”

“Well, lucky for you we have a few to pick from. Your choice can never be changed, so pick wisely.” The toad gestured and four ID pictures with stats appeared in the air before Alburet.

Each of them showed a Least Imp, an orange-red creature two feet tall with pointed tail, small stubby wings on its back and long claws on its hands. Its face was sharp and angled with a lot of sharp needle teeth in its mouth. They each seemed identical in image, so he looked at the relevant info to make his choice. They each only had 2 Strength, 4 Agility, 5 Constitution, and 3 Charisma, but their Intelligence and Wisdom were different along with another rating listed on each of them: Loyalty.

“Bettzle, what does the Loyalty rating denote?” Alburet asked as he couldn't get a pop-up tool tip on what it was for.

“It merely tells you how easy or hard it will be for you to gain happiness with the creature, hardly worth noting. Most Summoners are very content to take the most apt creature that is available, none of them have ever voiced issue with the one they chose to my knowledge,” the toad said while adjusting its glasses.

Alburet recalled Vicky telling him differently, that Loyalty was very important. Sadly, that would mean taking the imp with the worst stats. The one with Loyalty of Very status only had 8 Intelligence and Wisdom, the one with the worst Loyalty rating of Not had 20s in both stats. Chewing his lip, he had to decide whether to trust Vicky's advice or to take the obvious numerical advantage. Shaking his head, he hoped he was right and picked the one with the best loyalty rating.

“Interesting pick, to choose the weakest Imp. Oh well, it's your business Summoner. Best of luck to you and I'll see you when you learn how to summon your next Infernal.” With that, the toad took off its glasses and snapped its fingers, vanishing as the sound faded.

Looking back at how to normally summon his imp, Alburet did as the spell instructed. He held a hand out level, palm down next to him and spoke the words, “Your master calls you forth.” A bright flash and puff of smoke happened and when it cleared a small imp stood there.

“Greetings my master. Thank you for choosing me. What is my name to be?” The imp asked, looking up at Alburet.

“What is your name normally?”

The imp chuckled then spoke briefly in a gut wrenching voice in some language that Alburet didn't understand. “That is why we normally take the name given us by our master while we are under his or her command,” the imp smirked up at him.

“Noted. I take it that was your native tongue?” The imp nodded but remained silent. “Okay. I'll call you Bob.”

“Bob shall be my name then, master,” Bob replied with a toothy grin. “What are we doing?”

“Escaping this place is our first business, then we shall try to find a town or city,” Alburet replied. “Oh, question, what does your loyalty mean exactly?”

“An Infernal's loyalty is tied to how happy we are, the more loyal we are the faster we become happy while the inverse is also true, the less loyal we are the faster we lose happiness. The happier we are the more we do for our master, the less happy we are the more we rebel. Getting us killed or treating us badly lowers our happiness, treating us well increases our happiness.”

Alburet chuckled inwardly, thinking back to games in the past that used similar systems. So sacrificing the imp to run away would be a drawback as it would lower the happiness of the imp. “So if I die, what happens to you?”

“I return to my home plane until summoned again but I do not lose any happiness.”

“What is your happiness currently at?”

“Neutral. There are seven levels of happiness. Hated, Upset, Discontent, Neutral, Content, Respected, Revered.” Bob said, looking slightly bored.

“I see this is going to take me some time to learn. Oh well, let's get going and you can help me learn as we go. I'm glad to have you by my side, Bob,” Alburet said as he stepped to the doors that should lead them out. A pop-up flashed in front of him and after glancing at it he paused to discontinue that pop-up through the menu.

+1 Happiness for Bob

He left alone the one that would tell him when the minion shifted to a different level of happiness but that was all. “Oh, almost forgot,” Alburet murmured, stopping to slap his hands together, “Retribution,” then pressed his hand to Bob's head. “Now you’re buffed, let's see what kind of trouble we can get into.” He repeated the process for himself and pulled the doors open.

A misty courtyard with a weak sun greeted his eyes, with billows of cloud wafting slowly through the space before him. The only notable detail were the thirty foot walls just barely visible at times when a gap in the mist opened.

“Obscuring mist,” Bob said, “to have such a large effect the caster would have to be very powerful.”

Pursing his lips, Alburet shook his head. It wasn't like he had a choice if he really wanted his freedom. “Hopefully they aren't hanging about. Let's find the gate and get out.”

Bob followed him down the few steps to the cobbled road that came to the front of the building. Following the road on the premise that it would lead to a way out seemed like a good idea. After a few hundred feet they came to a massive gate on their right. Studying it, Alburet noted that it looked like it led further into the complex.

“I don't think we should go that way,” Alburet said, turning to follow the road again.  Another few hundred feet brought them to a mammoth double door with a smaller single door set in it. “This might be it,” Alburet said, when a large figure lumbered out of the mist.

Stepping back from the figure saved Alburet a lot of pain as a two-handed sword came through the space he had just been in. Alburet locked onto the figure, finding a level 6 Skeleton Gate Guard in rusty chain mail shirt attacking him with 500/500 health.

Tossing the torch at the skeleton as it was no longer needed, Alburet took his staff in hand and swung at the guard. The blow connected with the chain and only turned up a single point of damage. “Bob, could use some help here,” Alburet said as he ducked the next swing from the guard.

A small globe of fire splashed onto the guard’s unprotected legs, doing 21 damage. That caused the skeleton to turn toward Bob, who was already starting to cast another fire blast. As the skeleton turned, Alburet swung the staff into an overhead attack and brought it down firmly on the guard's skull. The critical to the unprotected head of the mob recorded 32 damage and made the mob turn back to Alburet.

Unfortunately for Alburet, the attack had put him a little off balance so the skeleton's attack as it turned caught him in the side and threw him back a few feet. Gasping, Alburet winced at having a small truck hit him costing him 24 health as well as leaving a gash in his side that coincided with the debuff Bleeding, which caused 10% of the wound’s initial damage every six seconds for one minute.

Another fire blast hit the skeleton in the legs, but the skeleton kept advancing on Alburet. Straightening back up, Alburet waited for the mob and was barely able to parry the next attack. The mob had way more strength than he did, which meant he could easily be overpowered. Dancing back to give himself some more room, Alburet saw another fire blast catch the creature again in the legs. This time the Guard turned towards Bob and started to advance on the imp, raising its sword as it went.

Alburet stepped forward quickly, thrusting the staff like a spear into the back of the mob's head. He was again rewarded with a critical strike, taking another 32 health off the mob which made it pivot and bring the sword down in a vicious strike aimed at him. His attempted parry was useless against the strength of the mob. He took 48 points of damage and was knocked prone.

The guard slammed its sword down at Alburet, who twisted away to avoid being hit in the head again. The attack connected with his side instead, gashing him again and adding a second bleed. Rolling to try and get some distance, he lost the staff in the process as he got to his feet. Alburet pulled out the dagger, wincing in pain as the two bleeding wounds ticked away. He didn't want to fight a two-handed sword with a dagger but unless he could get back to his staff it was a lost cause.

Two more fire blasts hit the mob, making it turn again to Bob who looked slightly panicked. “I'm starting to run low on mana, master,” the imp squeaked.

Putting the dagger away as he ran, Alburet grabbed the staff and went after the guard again, gauging how close this fight was going to be. The mob was at 330/500 while he was at 180/300 and losing a bit at a time due to the bleeds.

Bob ran from the guard, dodging as best he could and hoping that Alburet would regain the skeleton’s attention. Alburet dug out the health potion and downed it, blinking as his health was restored and the bleed debuffs went away. 230/300 was much better than the previous total and made his pain subside a great deal.

Just as the guard swung at Bob Alburet was able to strike the blade, making it go high. “Run for it until it attacks me again,” Alburet said, stepping back and preparing to attack the mob again.

Bob darted past Alburet in a funny half skip kind of run. The mob ignored Alburet, going after the imp again and as it turned its back on Alburet he slammed the staff right into the unprotected knee of the skeleton. 32 damage and a debuff appeared on the skeleton, Crippled. It began to turn back to Alburet who backed away from it, noticing it was limping on the damaged leg as it followed him.

“Bob, hit it in the head if you can, otherwise go for the legs,” Alburet cried out as he dodged the first attack from the skeleton.

“I can only cast another couple of spells, master,” Bob said as he launched another fire blast at the guard, this time hitting it in the head and taking off 42 life.

“Okay, do what you can,” Alburet said as he tried to parry again, but missed and took the sword to the ribs again which flung him back and into the double doors. “Fuck,” Alburet hissed, knowing he had just run out of room to maneuver.

The next fire blast came in, clipping the skeleton's head and causing it to turn back to Bob as another forty two health came off of it. Breathing a partial sigh of relief, Alburet followed the skeleton but held his attack. 214/500 was what the mob had left while Alburet was sitting at 108/300.

“Last one,” Bob called out, using its last bit of mana to take another 42 health off the guard.

“Dodge as best you can, it will take me a moment to pull it off you,” Alburet called out, hoping he could get two or three attacks in before it turned on him again. “Too bad Retribution wore off before we reached the gate,” he wheezed to himself as he pulled the staff back to hit the mob.

The staff connected with the other knee this time, again doing 32 damage and adding a second counter to the cripple debuff. Its speed was now halved as it limped after Bob. Smiling at the fact they might pull this off after all, Alburet brought the staff around into the first knee again just as the mob was getting close enough to attack the imp, who had paused to wheeze for breath.

That attack was enough to pull aggro back to Alburet, who realized it as the skeleton spun with the sword whistling in an arc as it did. The blow hit him again in the ribs and launched him twenty feet back and causing him to bleed again. Gasping, Alburet climbed to his feet shakily hoping he could land three more attacks before this thing killed him.

The guard limped toward him, its sword cocked back ready to attack when it got into range. Alburet watched it, judging the probable attack and hoped he was right. As it took the last two steps to get into range, Alburet darted forward going into a shoulder roll on the sword side of the skeleton. He hoped the skeleton wouldn't be able to bring the sword straight down as easily as it could have across.

The tumble worked as the skeleton didn't swing, but turned around to reacquire him. Alburet came to his feet and swung the staff, again catching the skeleton in the knees. Alburet hadn't expected the skeleton to turn as quickly as it did with the debuffs though, and found himself flying back again from a kick that did another 5 damage to him. He landed in a lump next to Bob.

“Not very good at this are you?” Bob asked.

“I didn't run out of mana,” Alburet wheezed, getting back to his feet. “Two more hits should do it but that might also land me back at my starting point.”

Bob chuckled, “You can do it.” He stepped back quickly behind Alburet as the skeleton came into range again.

Alburet cursed softly and slammed the staff like a spear into the thing’s skull just before the sword slammed into his ribs, flinging him away again and adding another stack of that damnable bleed. Gasping in pain, Alburet tried to climb to his feet to meet the guard as it trudged towards him.

“You done?” Bob asked with a hint of laughter to its voice. “You’re still alive, come on, be a man.”

Hissing in pain, Alburet got to his feet and glared at the imp, “Next time you can tank.”

Bob shook a finger at him, “Not a good plan. If I tank I can't do this.” With that it launched another fire blast at the skeleton's head, killing it.

Alburet slumped back to the ground and flipped the imp off. “Fucker, how long did you hold that?”

Bob skipped over to Alburet, “I got the mana for another blast right when you landed in your last heap. I do recover mana during combat, just not fast enough to be an endless supply of damage.”

Alburet breathed out in relief as the pain faded away when the last bleed fell off leaving him at 5/300 and he started to regain health. Once he was healed up he stood, “Well, we won. I never would have stood a chance without you. So, even with the snark, thank you.”

Bob dipped a shallow bow with a laugh, “We aim to serve.”

“Let's loot him and see if we can get the gate open.” Alburet crossed to the mob and looted the corpse. The rusty damaged chain mail shirt gave 14 armor, but it was red to him when examined which meant he couldn't equip it. He set it aside and checked the sword, a Pitted Rusty Great Sword which did 25 damage and was also red to him. The only other thing on the mob was a key for the small door in the gate.

As both of the rusty items were only worth a handful of copper he considered leaving them, then smirked. He pulled all the femurs out of his bag and tried to put the blade into the bag. It disappeared just like the bag that belonged to Mary Poppins. Laughing, he put the chain mail inside as well. These at least those were worth coin, unlike the femurs.

“Okay, we got us a key. Let's see what happens,” Alburet said as he walked towards the gate with Bob trailing along behind him.

As he inserted the key and turned the lock he was frozen in place. A look at his bar told him he had a new debuff, Paralyzed. A dark laugh rang out behind him, “So, one of the intakes survived my spell even after all these years. How interesting. Where did you think you were going, exactly?”

An invisible force pulled Alburet around so he could see a person clad in dark robes with silver filigree standing a few feet away from him. Finding himself able to speak Alburet replied, “To civilization, I had hoped. I don't know who you are or what’s going on, but at this point I was just hoping to get out.”

The only part of the man Alburet could see was the pale chin and dark goatee as the mage spoke on. “So freedom is your only goal then?”

“Pretty much was the only one I had since I woke up,” Alburet replied, wondering why the dev team would put this kind of event in here.

“I am willing to let you go and will even send you to a city if you can give me anything of value to make up for all the damage you’ve caused me,” The man smirked, clearly figuring Alburet had nothing of value.

“I would kind of need to be able to move,” Alburet said, at which point the debuff vanished. “Thanks,” Alburet muttered and pulled two items he had that might be worth anything, the books, out of his bag. “Either of these catch your eye?”

The man paused, cocking his head to the side, a smile forming on his lips. “I've been looking for that tome for some time now. To think it was held in the intake wing. Yes, I will take the slim tome in your right hand, just toss it to me please.”

Alburet gently underhanded the book spine first to the dark clothed man. “Glad to do business with you. So, about me leaving?”

The man flipped the book open and began to laugh the crazed laugh of the truly demented and Alburet suddenly had a bad feeling about what he had done. “Enjoy the world while you can, it will be ending sooner than you think.” The man snapped his fingers and a wave of blackness enveloped Alburet.

In the darkness multiple notifications popped up before his eyes. Alburet read through them, shaking his head, the last one made him sigh. “Fucking devs, going to pin whatever happens on me, I just know it.”

Quest Completed: Escape the Forgotten Prison.

Receive: Two Thousand XP.

Quest Completed: Find a person who wants the eldritch book.

Receive: Twenty Thousand XP.

Congratulations on completing your tutorial. You are now being transferred to the regular starting city for humans.

You have achieved multiple levels would you like to adjust your stats before you appear?

Alburet declined, he wanted to find a trainer before he added more numbers to himself. He felt a trainer would be able to give him a better understanding of how he should build himself. He shook his head over the fact he had just jumped from level three to level six.

The darkness vanished and he found himself standing before a massive stone wall. Fifty feet away were gates standing wide open, large enough for four wagons abreast, with four guards standing watch. As he took in the sight one of the guards turned to him, drawing his sword.

“Summoner, you are not allowed to have your minions present while in the city,” The guard said firmly, standing his ground and holding the sword ready.

“Bob, I think you should go for a bit.” Alburet said, eyeing the level 80 guard.

Nodding, Bob vanished in a puff of smoke. As the imp vanished the guard sheathed his sword, “Remember not to summon them inside the walls or you will end up in the stockades.”

Alburet nodded once and stepped over to the guard cautiously, “A question if I may, sir. Where can I find others of my kind?”

The guard sneered, “Filth like you is in the gutter. Move along before I arrest you for causing a disturbance.”

Blinking, Alburet walked into the city marveling at the degree of animosity the guard had shown just because he was a Summoner. The standard capital city stretched out all around him. Buildings of white stone stood gleaming in the sunlight with cobblestone streets and street signs at each corner.

“Maybe someone else can direct me to where Summoners hang out,” Alburet said softly as he walked down the main road.

Alburet

Human Summoner

Level 6

Strength: 5

Agility: 5

Constitution: 15

Intelligence: 15

Wisdom: 15

Charisma: 20

15 points to distribute

Health: 450

Mana: 450

Spells:

Demon Skin (Rank 2)

Demonic Retribution

Summon Least Imp

Fire Blast

Abilities:

None

1 Ability to train; see your trainer

Stormguard

As he walked down the street he noted the lack of names, status bars or anything similar over the heads of those moving around on the street. He focused on a small child to get targeting info, William McDonald level 1, 60/60 health. There was nothing to indicate whether the child was a player or NPC though, which he found a little odd. Stopping next to a wall, Alburet leaned against it and watched the street for a bit. Among the people walking he could see people running as well, chuckling he realized these were probably players because no one walked in games. He focused on one of the runners, ArticBreath level 3, 200/200 health. Alburet laughed, knowing that had to be a player. No NPC in any game he’d ever heard of would have a name like that. He targeted a few more people and came to understand how to easily tell the difference. NPC’s had surnames while players only had a first name or two names smashed together with no space between them.

Shaking his head he pushed off the wall and started walking again, no need to run since he had all the time he could possibly want after all. As he walked he noticed some people giving him distasteful looks and wondered why. He ducked his head down thinking and scratched his chin, as he did he noticed his hand. The leathery, reddish skin forced him to sigh. He wondered how to remove a buff early and a pop-up appeared asking if he wanted to remove his Demon Skin, with his acceptance his skin reverted to normal. After a few more blocks he noticed that he’d stopped getting looks from people. With another sigh he wondered where he needed to go to find a trainer, more so since his class clearly wasn’t loved in town.

He paused again, thinking about his options, when he noticed a young man sidling up behind an old woman in a very smooth manner. Narrowing his eyes, Alburet watched the thief deftly reach out and cut the strings tying a small purse to her belt. The thief took the purse and spun on his heel, walking towards Alburet while moving away from his victim. Shaking his head, Alburet waited where he was as the thief approached his position. Just then the woman started to swear like a sailor as she realized her purse had been stolen. Alburet let the thief go by before spinning and grabbing him in a rear naked choke, slamming the thief into the nearby wall.

“Lady, over here,” Alburet called out loudly as the thief dropped the coin purse and tried to break the hold. People on the street were looking over, but giving Alburet and his captive plenty of room. The woman strode over, her eyes flashing. A moment later a whistle shrilled from the other direction and two guards came running up. The thief had stopped struggling, passing out from the choke hold, so Alburet eased the unconscious man to the ground.

“What is the meaning of this?” the older of the two guards demanded.

“I observed this person cutting this woman’s purse from her belt. He then started moving towards me so I waited and subdued him until a guard could come and claim him. I hailed her after I had this man locked up, at which point she and you converged on me.” Alburet said then nudged the purse with his foot, “Your purse I believe, madam.”

She snatched it up, “It is indeed. Monogrammed with my initials, a gift from my late husband. You have my deepest thanks, kind sir. Let me give you a reward for getting my purse back to me.”

Alburet held up a hand, “No need to. I can’t stand by and watch a cut-purse take someone’s things.”

The guard cleared his throat, “If you would come with us, sir. We will need you to swear a statement at the station.”

“Glad to, officer,” Alburet smiled, glad he was able to once again be viewed positively by a police type person. “He’ll wake up shortly,” Alburet began as the thief stirred.

The second guard slapped manacles onto the thief and hauled him to his feet. “Up you come sunshine, we’re taking a walk to the stockades, we are.”

The old lady spoke up again, “Sir, might I at least have your name so when I tell my friends I can properly tell them who my hero was?”

“Alburet is my name, ma’am,” Alburet said, watching as the guards waited for the thief to be able to stand on his own.

“You are in terrible need of a new outfit, Alburet. Let me give you a small token of thanks so you can remedy that issue.” She held out a largish silver coin engraved with an elaborate insignia with a smile.

Alburet gave her a small bow and accepted the coin, “Far be it from me to disagree with a lady. I thank you again, ma’am and I wish you a pleasant day.” He turned with the guards following them as they guided the thief between them. He glanced back to see the old lady smiling as she watched them go.

“Right charmer, you are,” the older guard chuckled. “Old Lady Theron is a bit of a miser. For her to give that coin away is almost unheard of, but she is right. Your clothes are horrible. I have to admit, I’m curious as to how you disabled this here thief so easily.”

“Rear naked choke, simple unarmed maneuver. Easy to do when the opponent isn’t expecting it and you’re behind them.” Alburet shrugged as he explained.

“Might I get you to show me how you managed that when we get to the station?”

Quest: Teach the guard

Reward: Increased reputation with Stormguard’s Guards

Chuckling, Alburet nodded, “Be more than happy to. I know a few different maneuvers you can pick up easily.”

The rest of the walk was in silence as they wound through the city. They passed a small cemetery next to an inn and Alburet made note of it. If he were a Necromancer he would think that inn a prime place to set up. He made plans check there after to see if he could get help finding the Summoner area. Right after the graveyard they passed by a number of temples built in all manner of shapes and sizes. The largest one showed a depiction of a large man in full plate holding a flaming sword above his head. Past that were more temples tapering off again in size until they reached a very large square building.

“The stockades,” the older guard said at Alburet’s questioning look. They went around the corner of it onto another street and in the distance Alburet could see the guards stationed at a gate set into the wall. “We hold the accused and the convicted inside these walls on order of the King.”

“So, a guard station and jail all in one place,” Alburet said as they passed the guards on the gate, who eyed him with scornful eyes. Alburet wondered if looking like a vagrant was the reason, but let it roll off him. He did note that a few other people were coming and going in the courtyard as well.

They entered the main building, passing more guards on duty by the door, to enter a very large room. Desks were scattered through the room, most of them occupied. Various other people bustled around the room. Following the two guards, Alburet ended up in the back of the room before a grey haired matron who looked like she could chew nails. Staying back until asked to comment, Alburet just watched with a sense of nostalgia, thinking back on his old job. When asked he gave his statement about the incident, which the matron wrote down before having him sign at the bottom. She thanked him and two very large men came over and took the accused from the two street guards as she dismissed them all.

“Tough lady,” Alburet said as he followed the guards back into the courtyard.

“Oh, that she is. When she was younger it’s said she broke up a riot by herself. When the other guards got there she was the only one left standing. Granted, she was swaying a bit, but she was still standing.” The younger guard laughed.

“Looks like she could chew iron and spit daggers,” Alburet agreed. “So, about me showing you the choke, where are we going?”

The older guard pointed to a small building inside the walls, “Over there. Inside is the training room.”

Once they reached the building the older guard excused himself for a moment, ducking into an office as the younger guard led Alburet into the big central room. A minute later the older guard came in followed by a middle aged man who had an impressive collection of scars on his face. “Alburet, this here is our chief trainer, Captain Martinez Roberto,” the guard said by way of introduction.

Captain Roberto eyed Alburet before shaking hands, nodding at the firm grip. “My man said you had a way of subduing a thief quickly and easily. If you wouldn’t mind showing it to me?”

“Not a problem,” Alburet said, setting his bag and weapon aside. “Can I get one of you to volunteer?”

The younger guard took off his helm but kept his chain mail on, “I’ll do it.”

“Okay, we’ll do this at full speed first and once you wake up I’ll walk you all through it.” Alburet said, limbering up, “What I need you to do is walk past me.”

The young guard nodded and backed up a few feet before walking by Alburet. The other two watched as Alburet spun behind the guard and caught him in the choke. He saw a debuff appear on the guard, Strangulation that he hadn’t noticed on the thief earlier. Alburet then turned the younger man around to show the other two the hold from the front. “Rear naked choke, it’s very effective as long as the person doesn’t expect you to grab them from behind.” He gently set the young man down once he stopped struggling. “He’ll wake up in a few moments.”

“Hmm interesting, where did you learn this technique?” Roberto asked with real interest in his voice.

“I’m an adventurer, we pick these things up.”

“Ah, that would explain it. You lot are quite peculiar indeed.” Roberto said, nodding just as the young man groaned coming back to his senses.

“Once he’s on his feet I’ll walk you through how to apply the hold. I can also show you another submission take down or two, if you want.”

“Yes, but let me grab another couple of men,” Roberto said, walking out of the room quickly.

The next hour Alburet taught the guards some self-defense tactics just like he used to do back at his old job. “That should give you something to work with besides having to use the clubs,” Alburet said with a grin.

“I thank you very much,” Roberto said, his grim demeanor finally falling away. “I need to invite the royal guard captain down here and spar with him now. If you want to stop by and show us more at any point, I will be sure to make time for you Alburet.”

“Will do, but first I need to go see about some things,” Alburet said as the quest pop-up flashed before his eyes.

Quest Completed: Teach the guard

Receive: Increased reputation with the Guards of Stormguard

Bonus reward: You are now Liked by Captain Roberto the Guard Trainer

Roberto offered him a cup of water, “Anything specific?”

Alburet dug the damaged book out of his bag, “Know anyone who might want to buy this?”

Roberto took it and flipped it open, his eyes growing wide. “Justice smiles upon you. This book will fetch a good price with the right people, even damaged as it is. I would suggest you take it to the royal auction house.” He closed the book and handed it back, looking at Alburet with pursed lips. “I won’t ask where you got it from, but I wouldn’t show it around.”

Chuckling, Alburet stood up, “I found it in a ruin and thought it might be worth at least a few coins. Well, I’m off to get some new clothes with Madam Theron’s coin first, as I doubt the royal auction house will deal with me in my present state.”

Shaking his head, Roberto walked him to the gate, “You are right there, Alburet. Take care and may the rest of the day shine down Justice’s light upon you.”

“Oh, just one more quick question,” Alburet asked before Roberto could leave, “which way to a tailor?”

Later, Alburet found the shop with needle and thread emblazoned above it. Walking in, he was greeted by the smell of cedar. A young woman sat behind the counter smiling as the door opened, her smile faltering when she saw him. “Can I help you… sir?”

Alburet chuckled, “I do hope so. Captain Roberto said you would be able to assist me with a new set of clothing. I do have some coin, fear not. My current dress is not indicative of my financial standing.”

Her lips pursed slightly at Roberto’s name, with a nod she stood up, “What exactly are you looking for?”

“Truthfully? Everything. I have only these old boots and this tattered robe to my name. So I will leave myself in your capable hands as to what you think I should be wearing.” He pulled the large silver coin he’d gotten from Old Lady Theron from his bag. “I hope this will cover the costs.”

Her smile bloomed as she took the coin from him, “Yes, it will indeed, mi'lord. Let me grab my measure and we will get this done quickly. I have a few items that I can alter, we can have you in better clothes inside the hour.” She darted behind the counter and came back with measuring rope. “Please stand with your back straight and your arms out.”

Alburet did as requested for the next few minutes as she took his measurements. She stood back up after having taken his inseam, “Alright, I can have you in a robe in a matter of minutes or a shirt and trousers in a little over half an hour. You could also wear a pair of slippers inside those boots if you want. It is normal to wear cloth under all kinds of armor.”

“I’m used to a shirt and pants truth be told, so let’s do that and I will gladly take a set of slippers as well.” Alburet said as she led him over to a chair in the corner.

“I shall get started at once. Please relax here, I shall send my son out with a cup of tea for you.” she said before she darted into the back.

Alburet wondered just how badly he was about to get fleeced here but shrugged, it had been found money after all. A few minutes later a boy of about eight came out with a cup of tea on a saucer. “Mum said this is for you, mister.” Alburet accepted the tea and sipped it as the child stared at him. “Are you a vagrant, mister?”

Almost spitting the tea out, Alburet managed to swallow it but coughed. “Not as such, no. I am an adventurer and just recently got to the city after a very long and dangerous task. I’m here to make sure people stop thinking I’m a vagrant.” His stomach growled, reminding him he needed to eat soon. Shrugging, he pulled the aged meat from his bag and tore a chunk off.

“Cor mister, that stuff looks ancient, you sure it’s safe?” the kid asked with wide eyes.

“Not at all, but what is life without some danger, eh?” Alburet said as he sipped some tea, hoping it would help moisten the meat so he could actually start to chew it.

The kid backed up shaking his head, “I think you’re looney.” The boy darted into the back, away from Alburet.

With nothing else to do Alburet kept eating, finishing the meat just as the tailor came back out with his items. “Here you are sir, trousers, shirt and slippers. Is there anything else you need?”

“A long cloak if that is still within budget, please,” Alburet said with a pleasant smile.

She darted into the back and came back out with a grey long cloak, “Here you are then, sir.”

Alburet nodded his thanks, “Do you happen to have a room where I can get changed?”

Smiling, she walked him over to a curtained alcove. “If there is any problem just let me know, milord.”

Alburet changed into the new clothing and felt better immediately about how he looked. He stuffed the robe into his bag as he exited the changing area. “I feel so much better now,” he said with a smile at the tailor. “Thank you miss…?”

Dimpling, the tailor gave him a curtsy, “Margret Wilson is my humble name, sir.”

Alburet paused, “I think I’m missing something. Either that simple silver coin is worth a hell of a lot more than I thought or it isn’t currency as such.”

Margret looked at him puzzled, “It is a noble’s marker coin sir. It is emblazoned with Lady Theron’s sigil, meaning she will cover all costs at the store you give it to.”

Covering his face with a hand, Alburet chuckled, “Ah, she fooled me right well. If that’s the case, I think turnabout is fair play indeed. I would like to commission a new full set of clothing from you, then. As well as a money pouch and a belt to hang it on.”

Looking puzzled, Margret pursed her lips, “You didn’t know what the coin was for? Why did Lady Theron give it to you?”

“I stopped a thief from taking her money pouch. She wanted to give me coin but I turned her down, so she insisted on giving me that silver coin.” He shrugged, “It seems like she outwitted me. I had thought it might be worth a bit more than a normal silver was all.”

A soft chuckle escaped Margret, “Oh, I see now. I will be glad to make you a whole outfit from scratch sir. I can get you a belt and money pouch right now, if you would like?”

“Please,” he said, which sent her dashing into the back room briefly once more. “Thank you. How long does a new outfit normally take?” He put on the belt, attaching the money pouch and dagger to it.

“I can have it done by tomorrow if you want simple, or a week if you want grand,” Margret said.

“Take your time, then. I shall return in a week to pick it up.” Alburet gave her a small bow, “Thank you for this fine clothing, I look forward to seeing what magic you’ve worked when I return.”

Margret walked him to the door with a laugh, “I wish you a pleasant day, sir.”

“Oh,” he said, feeling a right ass, “my name is Alburet.”

“I wish you a pleasant day, Alburet,” she replied.

Walking away from the tailor’s, he started in the direction Roberto had told him the Royal Auction lay in. Eventually he reached a gaudy building fronted with fluted, elaborately carved columns. Shaking his head, he noted the sign declaring it his intended destination. He walked through the main door and paused at the very richly appointed lobby. A man in silks hurried over to him as Alburet stood there taking in all the gold leaf and silk.

“May I help you, sir?” The man’s voice dripped with distaste as he looked Alburet up and down.

Pulling the book from his bag, Alburet turned his eyes to the painfully thin silk clad man. “I was told this was the place to bring such an item, to be sold to the right people.” He held the book out.

His head held high and with a sniff of dismissal, the curator took the book opening it to the title page. Alburet was watching carefully, but still almost missed the reaction. “Yes, this book might fetch a few coins here. I would be willing to spare you the time and hassle by buying it out right from you right now for five gold.”

Blinking, Alburet was mildly stunned, not expecting gold right up front. He shook his head sadly though. “Not going to happen. Nice try to all but steal the book, though.” He watched the man react as if he had been slapped, “I want to put it up for auction as is with a conservative reserve to make sure it fetches what it should.”

“Hmm, I see,” the man said, eyeing Alburet with narrow eyes. “What makes you think it is worth more than my offer?”

“The Forgotten Prison is a legend of the first empire is it not?” Alburet bluffed, not even knowing if he was telling the truth or not.

Sighing, the curator turned, “Follow me, please.”

Alburet followed along behind the man and was led into an office. Behind the desk sat a man who looked to be in his prime, even with the stark white hair. The curator motioned him to a seat as he set the book before the seated man and whispered to him. The white haired man raised his eyebrows, chuckling before he dismissed the first man.

“Welcome to the royal auction house. Would you care for a drink?”

“I’m good for the moment, but thank you. I am Alburet, what might your name be?”

“I am the curator of this place, my name is Vladimir, and it is a pleasure to meet you. Do you mind if I look this book over before we talk business?”

“Considering the other man already did, be my guest,” Alburet said indifferently.

Vladimir smiled, allowing Alburet to see the sharp canines he had. “So kind,” Vladimir said before turning his attention to the book. He leafed slowly through the first ten pages then quickly skimmed the rest. “I do believe this is an authentic edition of the book. Did you wish to sell it to us or put it up for auction?”

Pursing his lips for a moment, Alburet thought about it. “I have had no dealings at this level before, Vladimir,” Alburet said bluntly. “I’m an adventurer and as such do not move in higher society. I would hear your advice on this matter.”

Chuckling, Vladimir picked up his goblet and took a sip, “Cautious, polite and honest. My goodness, will wonders never cease? You have a decent chance of collecting a right bounty if you auction this book, but it will take some time for us to properly set up such an auction. That would leave you without the book or coin to spend while we did so. Your other option is to let me buy it from you myself, I promise you a very good price but, alas, not as much as what you might get at auction.”

“What would you do with the book if I sold it to you?”

“I would gift it to his Majesty King Tyr the Third during the upcoming ball.”

Quest: Sell or Auction

Rewards: Variable depending on your actions

Alburet chewed his lip for a second, “I do need coin at the moment, but I have a feeling that having you as an ally might be my best bet for later in life. I agree to sell it to you Vladimir, at a reasonable price and to be viewed with kindness in the future.”

Quest Completed: Sell or Auction

Receive: Become Liked by Vladimir the Royal Auctioneer

Bonus: A Unique Item specific to your class or gold

Laughing, Vladimir gave a bow of his head, “Ah, so even two-souled adventurers think of alliances, this is good to know. Have you established an account with the bank here?” When Alburet shook his head Vladimir sighed, “I do not wish to hand over large amounts of coin. Would you be interested in a trade instead?”

“What kind of trade?”

“I will give you an item useful only to those who consort with demons in exchange for this book. I know you might be interested, as the scent of brimstone hangs about you.”

Alburet considered, “Can I see this item first?”

Chuckling, Vladimir put a bag on his desk then reached into it. He pulled out a set of dark red soft leather boots, which he set on the desk. “Examine these and tell me what you think,” Vladimir gave another sharp smile.

Alburet did as he was asked and focused on the boots to see their stats.

Demon Lord’s Boots

Unique Scaling Item, Part of the Demon Lord set

Armor 6 to feet (up to 100 depending on level) stacks with Demon Skin

Agility 6 (up to 100 depending on level)

Wisdom 6 (up to 100 depending on level)

Indestructible

You and your minions can move at double speed when one of your minions is present

Becomes Soul Bound when equipped

Other parts of set:

Robe

Crown

Gloves

Pants

Belt

3 pieces bonus: ???

6 piece bonus: ???

“Wow, those are very interesting indeed,” Alburet said softly.

“Do we have a deal then?”

“Do you have any more of this set?”

“Sadly no,” Vladimir said, “I can give you directions to others of your kind though if you want. Maybe they have information on where other pieces might be.”

“Hmm, still not sure the boots by themselves are worth it,” Alburet said trying to bluff for more.

Vladimir met Alburet’s eyes, “Your heart rate is giving you away. I will ask once more only, then I will withdraw the offer.”

Sighing, Alburet shrugged, “Fine. I’ll take the boots. They’re more use to me than a book is.”

“Glad to do business with you,” Vladimir said as he pushed the boots across the desk. “I shall mark your map so you can find your trainers.”

“Don’t have a map,” Alburet said as he put the boots on, feeling them size themselves to his feet.

“That’s not right, the third quest in the village should have rewarded you with the basic map,” Vladimir said with a frown.

Laughing, Alburet shook his head, “Never seen the village. I came from an altogether different place.”

Frown deepening, Vladimir stared at him then blinked, “So I see. Very well, I will add in a map as part of the deal. Do you happen to have anything else of value to offer me?”

Pulling the letter opener from his bag, Alburet placed it on the desk, “Got that from the same place as the book.”

Vladimir frowned at the letter opener which was covered in a thick layer of tarnish. He peered closely at it then brought a jewelers loupe to his eye, studying it before sighing. “Where did you find these, exactly?”

“Sorry, I promised not to tell,” Alburet said with a smile. “I would trade it to you for a bag like yours and a much better map.”

Vladimir rubbed his temples, “A level six Summoner shouldn’t be able to have things like this. We have a deal, this letter opener for a bag and map of excellent quality.” He pulled the bell pull next to him and his assistant opened the door. “Bring me a bag and map suitable for a high noble.”

The assistant raised a brow before bowing and closing the door. “I think he doesn’t like me,” Alburet chuckled.

“You are dressed as a commoner, of course he doesn’t. He barely tolerates the lesser nobles. He will like you quite soon though, rest assured of that. While we wait, would you like a drink?”

“I’m good actually, but thanks,” Alburet said as he tucked the old boots into his bag.

They sat in silence as Vladimir leafed through the book intently until his assistant returned. “Ah good,” Vladimir said, taking the items from his servant then marking the map and handing them over to Alburet. Alburet blinked to see the bag had 100 slots, and would become soul bound when he equipped it. “There you are. We have concluded our business. I wish you a pleasant day and if you do come across any more items such as these, do bring them to me first.”

Alburet slung the backpack over his shoulder as he stood up. He picked up the map, getting a pop up asking if he wanted to soul bind it. He selected yes and blinked as it vanished, “Err…”

Vladimir laughed a deep booming laugh, “It is part of you now. Do you not know how maps work?”

Alburet mentally asked for his map and it appeared in his hand. “I get it now, just wasn’t expecting it.” He willed it away and it vanished, “I will of course bring anything of similar value to you first, Vladimir. Have a good day and a wonderful night.”

As he exited to the street after the assistant showed him out he found the sun waning. He checked his map and headed off to finally see his trainer with a jaunty whistle as he walked. The game was really picking up, even if he was a little more geared then he should be. He still needed to sell off the junk and see about a real weapon. After he found the trainer would be soon enough he figured.

He ended up back at the inn right next to the small cemetery. He frowned, as he had been sure this would be the Necromancer hang out. Shaking his head, he went into the inn to find it fairly busy with people drinking and laughing. Raising a brow at the sheer number of people, he walked to the bar where he greeted the cadaverous bartender. “What you got here?”

The bartender looked him over before replying, “Anythin' ya could want really, minus the real exotic stuff like dwarven ale or elven wine. What ya havin'?”

“Dark ale, please.”

“Five coppers.” The bartender set the mug down with a thump and Alburet dropped ten copper coins beside it.

“Where can I find a trainer for the path of demon mastery?”

Smirking, the bartender picked up the coins and pointed out a man in a long black cloak sitting in the corner all by himself. “Talk ta Stewart, if he thinks ya worthy he’ll teach ya.”

Picking up the mug, Alburet sampled the contents and smiled at the thick, heavy taste of good dark ale. Nodding his thanks to the bartender, Alburet crossed the room to the lone man. “Stewart, might I join you for a moment? My name is Alburet.”

The person raised his hooded head, allowing Alburet to get a good look at the man’s red skin and glowing eyes. “What do you want?”

Taking the seat, Alburet took another sip of ale, “Looking for someone to train me in the path of Summoning.”

Pursing his lips Stewart sat up, really looking Alburet over. His gaze lingered on the boots before he stood with a nod, “Follow me, trainee.”

Draining the mug, Alburet left it on the table before he followed Stewart down a hallway, then down a set of stairs. They entered a cellar where Stewart produced a light crystal which he released in midair. Alburet blinked watching the crystal float by itself as he followed Stewart to the back wall. Stewart pressed a stone inwards, causing a section of wall to slide away.

Staying silent, Alburet followed Stewart into a tunnel which twisted and turned as it led them down. Eventually it came out into a huge room with the ceiling supported by columns. Each of the columns were sculpted into likenesses of undead or demons. As he marveled over the artistry, the smell of rotting flesh hit him.

Gagging slightly, Alburet held his nose as he continued to follow Stewart through the room. As they walked he noticed some people at desks poring over tomes while others ran from person to person. Ah, class training area for Summoners and Necromancers, he thought. At the far back of the room was a desk without anyone at it and Stewart slid into the chair. Next to the desk was a glowing pentagram just large enough for a person to stand on.

“Okay, would-be Summoner Alburet, what can I do for you?”

Noticing the lack of other chairs Alburet leaned against the desk. “As you can see, I’m relatively new here. I need to know what would be the best way for me to grow as well as hoping you can teach me my first ability.”

Stewart pulled his hood all the way back, revealing small horns on the top of his head. “Fresh blood, eh? Most Summoners focus on Intelligence and Wisdom with Constitution coming in a close third. As we aren't big on melee or non-magical ranged combat, we normally ignore strength and agility. Some pick up charisma, hoping that will help sway others into viewing them with less distrust and hatred. As for an ability, you have two choices right now.”

Stewart opened a book and slid it across to Alburet, “Pick either one.”

Alburet looked down at the book to see two options. Personal Spells, which would let him change the gestures and words for each of his spells to his own liking was the first choice. The second choice was a flat 10% boost to all fire based spells called Infernal Fire. Flat DPS increase versus a mostly cosmetic ability. He knew what the most likely choice would be for most people. Yet, he hesitated. The flat bonus was nice and all, but being able to customize the spells would be a different edge. It would make people pause to figure out what you were doing if you used non-standard movements and words to use your spells.

Stewart watched him curiously, as every other Summoner he had trained had quickly taken Infernal Fire, laughing at the other choice. His eyes narrowed as he watched this Summoner, who was clearly not average with the boots he was wearing.

Alburet chewed his lip before tapping the page with Personal Spells, then tapping the pop-up asking him to confirm his selection. “Well, this ought to be interesting,” Alburet chuckled as he glanced up to find Stewart watching him with interest. “Thanks for helping me out, Stewart. Can you give me any advice on where I should go hunt for the next few levels?”

Stewart smiled, “I can indeed. There is a goblin fort to the east of the city, out in the plains. The goblins should prove a challenge for you. You can get there by leaving the main gates and traveling east past the few villages that way. Or, if you have the coin you can get the portal guild to transport you to the small keep the king keeps there to stop the goblins from advancing.”

“I’ve got no money to speak of so I guess I'll have to hoof it,” Alburet said with a shrug. “Oh, where can I set my Homestone?”

“The graveyard next to the inn has a bind point. The tall obelisk is where you set it, just touch the stone to the indention there. Don't you have the gold for a simple teleport? You should have been able to pick it up in the village all adventurers start in.”

“I didn't start there, so no can do. Oh well, I just need to sell off some junk and then I’ll be on my way I guess. Does the king's fort have quests for killing the goblins?”

“Of course it does,” Stewart said, truly puzzled by this anomaly of an adventurer. “Your staff there is going to let you down though. I would suggest you stop at a shop and pick up a better weapon before you head out.”

“Will do,” Alburet said, pulling his map out, “just show me which shop you think would be best for me.”

Stewart blinked at the Traveler’s Map, “How in the Infernal Hells did you get a Traveler’s Map?”

Chuckling, Alburet shrugged, “Same place I got my boots and bag. But I'm not giving away all my secrets the first time we talk, Stewart. So, can you mark a good shop to pick up a staff appropriate for where I’m going?”

Shaking his head in disbelief, Stewart touched a shop on the map. “Grimgar's Weaponry will do fine for you. Tell Grim I sent you and he should knock 10% off his price.”

Alburet looked at the map before making it vanish, “Sounds great. Thanks again Stewart, see you later.” He turned to walk away when Stewart called out to him.

“Alburet, just step on the circle. It will take you to the graveyard.” Stewart said, pointing at the pentagram.

“Thanks again,” Alburet said with a nod and did so. He blinked at a flash of red light before his vision cleared and he found himself in the graveyard. “Handy teleport out, at least,” Alburet muttered as he walked over to the obelisk and touched his Homestone to it. “Alright, bound to the city and ready to go, shopping then the open road.”

Before he moved on he pulled up his character sheet to add his points and to check his spells. He quickly added his stat points then checked the two spells he had picked up.

Fire Blast: Mana cost: 30. Duration: Instant. Lob a blast of fire at your target. Fire Blast does 20 fire damage if it strikes the target. To use Fire Blast act as if compacting a snowball while chanting the spell name for two seconds, then throw the ball of fire at your target. (You may change this spell requirement due to your ability.)

Alburet touched the parenthesis portion of the spell. A pop-up asked him to touch it before making the motions and adding the words to change the spell. Smiling, he touched the pop up, changing the hand motions to a single hand clenching before opening back up while saying the phrase “Die in a fire.” Another pop-up asked him if he accepted the changes and he agreed, then looked at the spell again.

Fire Blast: Mana cost: 30. Duration: Instant. Lob a blast of fire at your target. Fire Blast does 20 fire damage if it strikes the target. To use Fire Blast clench and open one fist slowly while saying “Die in a fire,” then throw the ball of fire at your target. (You have changed the requirements of this spell with an ability.)

Nodding, he looked at the other spell he had gotten and frowned when he saw it was just Demon Skin rank 2. At rank two it gave him 20 armor and cost 75 mana, but that was the only difference. He sighed at the lack of new spell but knew it was probably the easy way for them to give out spells every level minus those with abilities.

He did jump over to Summon Least Imp and change the words on that spell to, 'I summon Bob the Mighty.' Chuckling at his own joke of the two foot imp being mighty, he closed down the screen and started walking to the weapon shop.

Alburet reached Grimgar’s Weaponry just as the sun started to sink behind the mountains. Walking into the shop a small bell jingled, he paused taking in the displays all along the walls. Closing the door behind him, Alburet walked over to the nearest display case which held crossbows. As he was looking them over a cough sounded behind him, “Can I help ye?”

Alburet turned to find the owner of the deep gravelly voice and saw a Dwarf standing there. “Ah greetings, I do hope so. I’m in need of a better weapon so I can go off to fight the goblins to the east.”

The bald dwarf swept his blue eyes over Alburet as he stroked his beard. “A caster I would guess, since ye don’t even have leather armor on. Where did you hear about my shop?”

“From my trainer, Stewart, at the Dead Man’s Inn,” Alburet replied.

Grimgar laughed, “Stew sent you to me? Hmm, interesting. That would make ye a Summoner like him. Unlike armor, weapons are available to everyone if ye have the strength to use them. For most weapons a simple ten strength will allow ye to use them. For the two handed variety, it takes a minimum of twenty. For the simplest of weapons it only takes five though, for instance a wooden club, quarterstaff or dagger. Once ye start getting into quality metals the strength requirement goes up, high steel weapons add another minimum twenty to the base requirement. At the top end is star metal, which takes at least a hundred strength for a one handed weapon made of that metal.”

Alburet coughed, shaking his head “Looks like I might need to see about upping my strength at some point then. For now, I can only use the most basic of weapons, it appears. I have a few silver to my name, is there any way for me to get a decent weapon for that? Also, do you know why the limitation on armor?”

Grimgar chuckled, “The Creator said so? No seriously, that is the only answer we have. An Elementalist is rumored to have increased his strength to the point of being able to use a two handed star metal sword, but he still can’t put on even hardened leather.”

Chalking it up to game balance, Alburet shrugged, “Far be it from me to question the Creator. So what can we do about getting me a decent weapon?”

Grimgar stroked his black beard for a moment before replying, “I will do ye a favor. I will take that battered staff off ye hands along with two silver. In return I will provide ye a staff capable of lasting you long enough to leave the goblins behind. Well unless ye die a lot, if ye do it be not me fault when the weapon breaks earlier than it should.”

“Can I see the staff first?”

Grimgar ducked into the back, coming back a moment later with a polished dark wood staff. “Here we are, one of me standard weapons suitable for slaying goblins,” Grimgar said, setting it on the counter.

Alburet focused on the staff to get the stats on it.

Quarterstaff

35 Damage

150/150 Durability

Nodding, Alburet set his old staff on the counter and dug two silver out of his money pouch, placing them next to the old staff. “We have a deal it seems,” Alburet said as he picked up the new staff with a grin. “Pleasure doing business with you, Grimgar.”

“Aye, just take ye time out there. Too many press too fast at the goblin fort then end up dead. I wish ye the best of luck on ye trip and make sure to pick up any quests the garrison might have.” Grimgar said as he pocketed the silver and slid the old staff under the counter.

Alburet said his goodbyes and walked out the door into the night. Stopping just outside the shop, he glanced up at the star lit sky then over as a large gold moon rose over the tops of the houses nearby. Studying the crater scarred surface of the moon, Alburet let out a whistle of admiration before he yawned. He rubbed his face for a moment then started walking back towards the Dead Man Inn. He wondered what a room would cost for the night and was going to find out as he finally felt tired.

When he finally got back he blinked. What he thought was busy earlier had clearly been wrong. The inn was packed now, all spots at the bar taken and all the tables were filled. A few more people leaned against the walls talking with others. Making his way over to the bar he waited until the bartender got down to him. “How much for a room for the night?”

“Three silver paid in advance,” the bartender replied in a half shout to be heard over the crowd.

Rolling his eyes Alburet dropped his last silvers onto the counter, “I’ll take it.”

The bartender motioned him off to the side before he let out a peculiar whistle through the doorway that was behind the bar. A moment later a white haired old woman came out and around to Alburet before leading him up the back stairs. She led him to a room and showed him the bed along with the basin and pitcher of water for washing before leaving him. Alburet secured the chain on the inside of the door once she left.

Walking over to the bed, he stripped off his boots followed by his clothes before he pulled the blanket down and climbed into the bed. Once he pulled the blanket over himself he closed his eyes and lay back waiting for sleep to come.

Alburet

Human Summoner

Level 6

Strength: 5

Agility: 11

Constitution: 20

Intelligence: 20

Wisdom: 26

Charisma: 20

Health: 500

Mana: 560

Spells:

Demon Skin-Rank 2

Demonic Retribution

Summon Least Imp

Fire Blast

Abilities:

Personal Spells

Goblins

Alburet woke feeling refreshed and ready for the day as he stretched while opening his eyes. He was momentarily surprised to see a wooden ceiling above him. As he lay there as memory came rushing back, causing him to smile as he sat up. Getting out of bed he quickly pulled his clothes on, noting that they showed no stains or sign of wear from his having worn them. His stomach growled and he glanced at his buff bar to find the Thirsty and Hungry debuffs. He also found a new buff that declared him Well Rested, giving him a 10% bonus to experience for the next six hours. He washed his face before picking up his bag and heading downstairs. The taproom was mostly deserted with just a barmaid behind the bar.

“Miss, what can I get for a quick meal?” Alburet asked as he took a seat.

“We only have bread, cheese and fruit in the morning costin' two copper per item. We also have tea available if ya want somethin' other than spirits to break ya fast,” She brushed her red hair back from her face as she replied to him with a smile. Her green eyes twinkled as she looked him over, “What would ya like?”

“Let’s take the bread along with some cheese and a mug of tea please,” Alburet said, placing six copper on the counter.

She swept them up with a business-like smile before yelling his order into the kitchen door. A moment later another maid, this one maybe eight years old, came out carrying a mug and plate. The first maid took them and set them down before Alburet. “There ya go, sir,” she said. Turning back to the young girl, she asked, “Does Hilda need any help back there?”

“Nay, she be doin' fine,” the girl replied in a thicker accent before disappearing back into the kitchen.

“Sister of yours?” Alburet asked as he broke the warm roll open so he could stuff the cheese into it.

“Aye, we are a family run place. Da handles the bar in the afternoon on, Ma runs the kitchen until dinner is ready. Me and me sisters are in charge of everythin' else that be needin' done,” she replied, her smile back in place as she turned to him. “We get busy in the evening, which means we are all workin' besides Ma who be getting her sleep in then.”

“So you work the morning and night? Sleeping during the middle of the day?” Alburet asked between bites of the cheese sandwich. He was really enjoying the nutty wheat flavor as well as the tangy bite of the cheddar.

“About right. Each of us handles specific tasks mostly, but all of us minus the youngun are workin' the taproom durin' the busy hours.”

Having demolished the food in short order Alburet grinned, “Well, the room was warm and comfortable last night. The food this morning is better than anything else I have eaten here in the city, and this apple tea is delicious.”

The maid giggled slightly and her accent deepened, “Ah ya jest sayin' tha’. Will ya be stayin' with us again?”

Finishing the tea, Alburet stood, “Anytime I’m here in town I will be. I’m probably heading off to kill some goblins to the East first, though.”

“Oh, ya be a two-souled then. Not many of ya be takin’ rooms wit’ us. I wish ya the best in the goblin slayin' and will welcome ya back when ya return,” She took the empty mug and plate into the kitchen.

Even though he was short on coin himself, Alburet dropped another copper onto the bar for her before he headed out. Just as he was clearing the door he heard her shout out to him, “Thank ya kindly for the tip.” He chuckled as the door shut behind him.

The sun was just rising, spreading light over the city. Alburet wondered what he should do. He didn’t have the money for a transport spell to get him to the goblins quickly, which meant having to hoof it to the east. He could always go out to the starter village and see about doing the quests there to raise money, which would get him enough for the transport. He could wander the streets and hope to find some quests that way. He pondered what he felt like doing. His second day here in Alpha World and he had plenty of options.

He chuckled as he considered a third option that might work. Shouldering his bag into a more comfortable place, he started walking back to the stockades, whistling as he went. As he whistled one of his favorite songs he thought this game could really use a music feature. Since there wasn’t any background music in each zone, maybe an interface for players to listen to downloadable music. Shrugging at the thought, he continued his song as he walked along watching the streets start to become busy as more people woke and left their homes.

A while later he arrived at the stockades, nodding to the guards as he passed through the main gates. Instead of walking to the main building, he headed towards the training building. Just as he reached the door a guard came bustling out, only to pause and stare at Alburet with a glower. “What do you want Summoner?”

Sighing as he realized it was the guard from the main gate Alburet replied, “I am going to see if Roberto will listen to a proposition I have.”

Scoffing, the guard shook his head, “The Head Trainer doesn’t have time for trash like you, so get going.”

Alburet eyed the guard for a moment before shaking his head, “I think Roberto should be the one to tell me that, Skippy. As it is, he seems to have taken a Liking to me, so why don’t you either go and ask him or get the fuck out of my way?” Alburet spoke calmly, his voice flat, which is why he was surprised when a notification popped up before his eyes.

The guard took a step back, his face going grim, “You threatening me?”

Letting out a deep sigh Alburet stepped back, raising his empty hands, “Nope, you just seem a bit thin skinned and biased.”

Another guard came out of the training room, pausing to take in the scene. “What is going on here?”

“I wanted to speak with Roberto and Skippy here told me to get lost,” Alburet said with a shrug.

The gate guard went a little red, “That isn’t right at all. I stopped this Summoner from entering the training building. He seems to think he has special permission for some reason.”

The second guard looked at Alburet closely, “Did you come here yesterday? Is your name Alburet?”

“Yes to both questions, sir,” Alburet replied, ignoring the first guard.

Sighing, the second guard nodded, “Move over Wilbur. Roberto talked with him yesterday, this is the guy who showed Roberto how to apply that new choke technique.”

Wilbur blinked as he shook his head, “Ridiculous, Summoners don’t fight hand to hand.”

“Look, why don’t we all just go talk to Roberto?” Alburet suggested. “If I’m, lying arrest me. If I’m right then just stop talking down at me Skippy.”

Wilbur growled back, “My name is Wilbur, not Skippy, dammit.”

Alburet couldn’t stop himself from responding, “Sure Skippy, sure. Just skip along out of the way so we can go talk to Roberto okay... Skippy?”

Wilbur stepped forward, his fists balled and his face red. Alburet promptly dropped his staff as he leaned back to avoid the first swing from Wilbur. As the arm went by, Alburet grinned as he latched onto it. He spun Wilbur around, his arms going up and latching onto Wilbur’s neck. “Why is it that the young never learn the simple lessons? Can you tell me that, Skippy?”

The second guard shook his head, “Release him Alburet, otherwise I shall have to call it attacking a guard and arrest you.”

Alburet sighed, holding the pressure for another second before removing his arms as Wilbur dropped to the ground bonelessly. “I would not wish that at all,” he said with a straight face as he stepped back from the unconscious guard. The door opened again and Roberto stepped out.

“Alburet? Why is Wilbur on the ground at your feet?” Roberto asked, one eyebrow raising.

“He swung at me and I stopped him from damaging himself. I had come to talk to you about a proposal and Wilbur there wouldn’t let me pass. This other guard came out and told Wilbur that I should be able to speak with you, but Wilbur again didn’t want to listen. After a bit of back and forth he swung and I dropped him with a simple choke.” Alburet said with a shrug, “Regrettable all things considered, but I’m not about to let myself be attacked for no reason.”

Roberto turned to the other guard, “Steven, what happened?”

“Sir, I came out and found Wilbur and Alburet talking. Alburet stated he wanted to see you and Wilbur called him Summoner scum, Sir. After Alburet suggested we all speak with you he called Wilbur by another name. Wilbur objected to being called Skippy and seemed to grow agitated, and when Alburet called him by that name again Wilbur swung at him. Alburet then promptly applied the choke hold you were telling me about when Wilbur missed his attack. I advised Alburet to release Wilbur or face charges, he did so just before you came out, Sir.” Steven replied in a matter of fact tone, standing at attention.

Roberto turned back to Alburet, sighing, “Why did you provoke him?”

“I didn’t. He was provoking me, sir. He has multiple times now called me scum and told me I belong in the gutter just due to my vocation. All I did was use the wrong name and he attacked me. All I was doing was coming to see if I could talk you into a mutually beneficial transaction, paying me to help train your men in the techniques I showed you yesterday.”

Roberto rubbed his head with one hand before replying, “That isn’t going to be possible right now. Look, Wilbur’s father is a lower noble in the city which means when he complains to daddy dearest we will be told to bring you in for assaulting a guard. I suggest you head out of town for a bit, maybe head east to raise your standing with the city by killing goblins.”

“That was why I wanted to make some coin helping train,” Alburet said. “I’m flat broke. I’ve got a handful of silver and copper to my name at the moment.”

Roberto frowned before pulling out two gold, “Call this advanced payment for later training and get going.”

Quest: Return later to help Roberto train the guard

Reward: Coin and reputation with the guard

Optional: Return the gold to cancel the quest

Warning: abandoning this quest will mark

you as a thief with the guards of Stormguard.

Alburet took the two coins, “I’ll be back after a day or two, then. Thank you sir,” Alburet snapped off a textbook salute before grabbing his staff and walking out of the stockade yard.

Roberto watched him go with a thoughtful face. Wilbur groaned as he woke up. Looking down, Roberto sighed, “Wilbur get up, you are to take the day off and think about why it might be inappropriate to make decisions for your superiors. Steven, make sure he heard that and takes the day off.” Steven saluted as Roberto went back into the training building.

Alburet walked for a bit, lost in thought wondering if he had just opened up a can of worms with Wilbur before shaking his head. He looked around to find a guard to get directions to the place he get could buy a portal to the stronghold near the goblin fort. He thanked the guard before walking that way with a slight spring to his step, thinking of a day of grinding mobs and making cash.

Halfway across the city is what it felt like when he finally came to an imposing tower that took up as much room as four normal buildings and rising high into the sky. Alburet chuckled at the classic wizard’s tower look before going in the front door, which stood wide open. Inside was a spacious waiting area with chairs and tables and a single desk near the back of the room in front of a double staircase. Behind the desk sat a stunning redhead who was smiling as he approached.

“Greetings, and welcome to the transport guild, sir. What can we do for you today?” she asked in a voice that rang with actual happiness and not just polite professionalism.

Chuckling, Alburet replied, “Glad to see someone enjoying their job. I wanted to inquire about getting out to the stronghold to the east so I can help thin down the goblin population.”

“That is a popular destination right now,” She said glancing down at a tome open before her. “It is a single gold per person but we do offer a discount if you are going as a group with others.”

Alburet looked back at the waiting area, which was empty, “Looks like it will be just me…”

He cut off when another person came running over to the desk. “Hi, how much to take the portal to the eastern garrison?”

The redhead looked from Alburet to the new comer momentarily, “As I was just telling this gentleman, who was here before you, it is a single gold per person though we do offer a group discount depending on how many are going at once in a party.”

The newcomer looked over at Alburet and nodded, “You off to farm the gobs, too?”

“That was my idea, yes. Did you want to form a party to take advantage of the group rate?” Alburet asked curiously.

“Yeah, that would be awesome,” the bone thin man said, brushing the shock of long black hair back from his face. “Name is DrFrank, what’s yours?”

Alburet raised a brow at the name before replying, “Alburet.” He stressed the syllables for the new player to make sure it was clearly heard, Al-Burr-Et. “What class?”

“Oh, Necro. You?”

“Funny. I’m a Summoner. So do you guys get golems at higher levels?”

“Oh yeah, man. That’s our big minion after the skeletons and zombies,” Frank said, enthused.

The redhead coughed gently, “So, a group rate then?”

Alburet smiled, “Sounds like.” He stopped when a notification appeared before him, he read it and accepted noting the second portrait along with health and mana bars that appeared under his.

DrFrank wants to form a party.

“Let’s do this, man,” Frank said as he dug out a gold. “Here’s my half, babe,” he said, dropping it on the desk before the redhead.

Alburet sighed inwardly before he also dug out a gold and set it before the receptionist. “Here’s my portion as well, miss,” he said with an apologetic smile to her.

The redhead nodded, taking the coins and handing back 10 silver to each of them. “Have a seat and one of our men will be with you shortly.”

The duo walked over to the chairs and sat down and Frank was talking again. “You know your class is the weakest in the game, right?”

“I wouldn’t be so sure about that,” Alburet said. “My imp did okay for me earlier, just really need a tank pet.”

“We can keep the party together when we get there then, if you want. My skeletons can tank for us while we blast away at stuff.” Frank said, looking around like he was bored of waiting already.

“We can try it out and see if it works,” Alburet replied as a robed gentleman came over to them.

“Greetings. The portal is ready for you two, if you will follow me.” The robed man turned and began to walk off. Frank jumped to his feet and hurried after the NPC, stopping every few steps so as not to pass the man. Alburet just walked along behind, content with the pace.

“So annoying how they all walk,” Frank said as he stopped again. “I mean, who does that in a game, am I right?” He turned to see Alburet walking along at the same speed as the NPC.

“You’re absolutely right, no one walks in a game.” Alburet said with a bland smile, watching Frank’s brow furrow.

“No need to be a smart ass, man,” Frank said as he paused again, “it’s just asinine. I mean we can run for hours, so having to walk for the NPC’s is fucking stupid.”

Alburet couldn’t have disagreed more, but held his tongue as he didn’t want to start an argument. They were led up the stairs and to a room with a blue circle with runes inscribed around it that was glowing and pulsing as if in time to invisible music. “Here we are, gentlemen. Just step into the circle and it will whisk you to your destination,” the NPC said as he stepped out of the way.

Frank darted into the circle and vanished causing Alburet to sigh as he turned to the man. “Thanks for the service. I am more than happy with everything, unlike the young one who already left.” He held out a silver, “Please split that with the receptionist. She was most helpful.”

The portal mage chuckled, pocketing the coin, “We normally split any tips we receive sir, but I will let her know you specified. Safe journey and happy hunting to you.” He watched with a thoughtful expression as Alburet stepped into the portal before going back down to speak with the receptionist.

Alburet stepped into the glowing circle and felt himself lurch as if he had been shoved from behind while being yanked forward while the world went bright blue around him. When his vision cleared he was standing in the courtyard of a garrison. Frank was standing just to the side tapping his foot, “What took so long?”

Alburet grimaced as he focused on Frank’s portrait and wished the group disbanded. “Nothing,” Alburet said as the group dissolved, “I just am not in a hurry, so feel free to run along.”

“What the fuck ever, dude,” DrFrank said before running into the main building.

Alburet rubbed his temples for a second, thinking of all the twentish year old males he used to deal with on a regular basis. Shaking his head he looked around, spotting a merchant next to a cart along one wall as well as smith on the other wall. All around he could see soldiers walking around from point to point, some doing sword practice while others practiced with bows and crossbows. Figuring the quests were inside the keep, he went that way at the same walking pace he had before. As he walked he held out his hand palm down, “Come to me Bob the Mighty.”

In a puff of smoke Bob appeared and began to skip along behind him, “Are we going to be killing things again?”

“Once I get some quests we’ll be heading to a place full of goblins to kill,” Alburet informed the inquisitive imp.

“Oh, good,” Bob said chuckling darkly. “I do so love toasted goblin in the morning.”

Laughing Alburet looked back to see Bob wringing his hands, “That might be a little over the top.”

Bob paused, “Most of my previous masters liked that kind of thing.”

“Meh, just be yourself. I’m not a demanding sort.” Alburet replied as he nodded to the two guards flanking the door eyeing him and the imp warily. He stopped before one of them, “So I heard there are quests to kill goblins here, where do I go?”

“See the quartermaster and the senior sergeant, each of them will give you quests,” the guard replied, eyeing him coolly.

“Thanks,” Alburet said, thinking the booklet for the class should have mentioned the negative view the guards all seemed to have towards Summoners.

Entering the keep, he followed the main hall until he came to the main room. There were people just hanging about chatting as well as two men at desks on opposite sides of the room from each other. Going over to the desk with no clustered around it, Alburet greeted the man with three stripes on his tunic. “Sergeant, I was told you would have a quest for me involving the goblins sir.” Alburet said, coming to parade rest before the desk.

The sergeant looked up with an amused glance, “Fancy yourself a man of discipline, do you?”

“I once kept the company of such men sir, it is a hard habit to break,” Alburet replied with a smile as he dropped the parade rest stance. “They were good men and I was honored to serve with them.”

The sergeant paused, looking from Alburet to Bob and back, “Must have been before you manifested Summoner powers then.”

“I’m an adventurer sir,” Alburet replied.

“Ah, one of the two-souled. That makes more sense. You are a bit unusual for a two-souled, you didn’t come running up and demanding a quest like the rest have.” As the words left the sergeant’s mouth a person came running up to them.

“Hey dude, give me the quest for the goblins,” DrFrank said bluntly as he smirked at Alburet.

Alburet’s lips quirked as he bit back his laughter. The sergeant nodded to Frank. “Right, I need five goblin heads to prove your valor,” the sergeant said, only to see Frank run off a second later. “So sad, they just accept any quest at all.”

Alburet snorted, shaking his head, “Like recruits who think they own the world.”

With a deep belly laugh the sergeant nodded, “Pretty close, yes. As for you, kill me any twenty goblins. For that I will give you coin, no need to bring back proof. For each extra goblin killed I will increase the reward. Also, they sometimes carry arm bands. The king has special bounties for those armbands so make sure to bring them back to the quartermaster across the room.”

Quest: Kill at least twenty goblins

Reward: 50 silver per twenty goblins killed, increased rep with all Stormguard reputations

Alburet snapped a salute, “Sir, yes sir.”

Chuckling, the sergeant shook his head before returning the salute, “Dismissed, private.”

Alburet spun on his heel and walked across the room to another man in uniform. “Sir, I am here to ask about any quests you might have for me to undertake.”

The quartermaster looked up from his clipboard, “Huh, that was the most polite request I’ve heard all day. I want the goblin’s supplies captured. Bring back at least five caches and I will make sure you are rewarded. The more you capture the more I can give you in return. Also, the king has a standing bounty on the arm bands the goblins occasionally have. Bring me any you find and I will make sure the king’s orders are fulfilled.”

Quest: Capture at least five goblin supply caches

Rewards: Variable

Quest: Goblin armbands

Rewards: Depends on type and number of arm bands by King’s order

Alburet snapped a salute with a smile, “Glad to be of service sir. I shall return upon completing my objective.”

The quartermaster raised a brow before returning the salute, “Dismissed.”

Alburet turned sharply to his right and walked out of the room. Once clear Bob coughed, “You used to be with the guard?”

“Not them, but a type of guard yes,” Alburet said with a strained smile. “Let’s not talk about that, okay?”

Bob nodded, eyeing his Summoner with thoughtful eyes. “We are going off to kill things now, right?”

A dark chuckle escaped Alburet, “That is the plan, yes.”

They walked out the main gates to see grassy plains stretching out before them. Alburet could see the goblin fort in the distance. It looked like a standard fort to Alburet’s eyes from this distance as he took in the view. Between the two forts Alburet noticed a number of people and goblins engaged in combat. As he focused on different groups, he saw that all of the mobs were Goblin Scavengers. “Looks like we shall have competition, Bob,” Alburet said as he started walking.

“That’s okay we can range pull them. As long as you don’t pull too fast we should be able to keep a steady pace,” Bob said.

“As long as none of them are in chain and wielding two-handed swords,” Alburet said.

Bob chuckled, “I can save you again if that happens.”

“I recall me saving you a few times in there, too. In fact, I made sure you never got so much as wind burn from that sword.” Alburet replied with a grin.

“True, true and I am grateful for that. I’m thinking I might have exploded if I’d been hit.”

Alburet watched the action around him as they walked across the plains, casting Demon Skin on himself. “Looks like they come out of the fort and jog down to various spots in the field. We can’t keep up with the rate they leave the fort but we could probably snag a spot they go to.”

Bob pointed to one corner of the keep, “Right corner, looks like no one is bothering the goblin over there.”

Alburet looked over, nodding, “Sure enough. As much as I hate running, let’s kick it up.”

He began to run, with Bob doing his running skip to keep up. As they closed on their target Alburet realized he covered ground fast at a run as he went right by a few people soloing goblins. As they approached the one near the corner it turned to face them, showing a fang filled mouth. His target was a Goblin Scavenger, level 6 with 600/600 health. It wore ragged leather armor and carried a rusty sword. Alburet cast Demonic Retribution on himself as he closed the distance. “You’re on Bob. Keep a reserve for emergencies through, please.”

“Okay, master,” Bob said as the first Fire Blast hit the goblin in the chest even as it tried to dodge the flame.

Alburet pursed his lips as he slowed and advanced in a measured gait as the next Fire Blast hit the goblin, causing it to scream and go for Bob. Alburet noted it going a little wide to avoid him so he stepped in and swung with both hands at the extreme range of the staff. He missed as the goblin dove under the swing and scrambled to its feet only to take another Fire Blast, this time to the face. As it screamed at the third hit Alburet got between it and Bob, smashing his staff into the goblin’s head as it blinked its burnt eyes. Alburet smiled, his hit to the goblin’s head confirming critical spots doubled damage received.

He had to dance away from the wildly swinging goblin while it was disorientated from both attacks to its head. With a nod as he swung again, this time only hitting its shoulder as it tried to avoid the attack as it was still blinking its eyes. Alburet dodged as the goblin swung the rusty short sword at him, but wasn’t quick enough, feeling the attack slice into his side. He hissed at the pain. Alburet was really starting to hate having the sensors turned up to max, though he did like watching the spark of fire burst on its chest from his Demonic Retribution.

The next Fire Blast ramped Bob’s aggro to the top again, making the goblin turn to run at Bob. Alburet swung and missed, making him cuss as he turned to chase after the goblin. Bob ran in an arc trying to lead the goblin back towards Alburet. His next attack into the goblins legs wasn’t enough to overcome the aggro, so he chased after the duo. Bob cried out as the goblin chased him down and got a hit in before Alburet could catch up and land his own attack on the goblin’s back.

That was enough to pull the goblin around onto him, saving Bob from taking more damage. “Just fucking die already,” Alburet grunted as he parried the goblin’s attack before slamming his staff down onto the mob’s skull, firmly fixing the goblin’s attention on him. The rest of the fight went more easily as Bob held back for a bit, allowing Alburet to build aggro. A minute or so later the goblin keeled over dead, allowing Alburet to take a breath in relief.

“About time,” he panted before looking over at Bob, who had a nasty gash down his side. “You okay?”

Bob winced then smiled as the wound disappeared, “I am now, yes. Thanks for killing it.”

“Next time I need to remember I have a ranged attack spell now, too,” Alburet said while shaking his head. He touched the corpse which vanished, leaving a small bag laying on the ground. Touching the bag prompted a notification of 24 copper going into his money pouch. He quickly disabled the pop-up about coin looted, but left notifications of items on.

Bob laughed, “You forgot Fire Blast?”

“I just got it, so yeah. Still not used to the idea of having it. Next pull will be better. If I get two of those off first it shouldn’t chase you right away.” Alburet replied as he glanced over the field, watching others fighting. “Some of them seem to be having issues,” Alburet said, watching a golden haired elf in white robes run from a goblin. “Think we should step in?”

“To help a cleric of light?” Bob said with open skepticism.

Laughing, Alburet nodded, “You don’t have to if you would rather not in this one. Time to watch that thing, ‘Die in a Fire’.” He clenched his hand and opened it slowly as he stepped forward while speaking the words. The sphere of fire he summoned turned into a streak of fire as he cast it at the goblin chasing the elf. The goblin had its back turned so it didn’t know to dodge, allowing the Fire Blast to hit it in the head. Alburet chuckled as the 44 Damage registered on the goblin, “Over here, ugly.”

The goblin was fixated on the elf though. She dodged, taking a glancing blow before running towards Alburet. “Help, please,” she cried out as she ran at him.

Alburet nodded as he spoke the words again for another Fire Blast. Before he could cast his though, Bob launched one hitting the goblin in the chest. “She did ask nicely,” was Bob’s response to Alburet’s raised brow. Shaking his head, Alburet tossed his second Fire Blast, catching the goblin in the chest and frowned at only doing 18 damage. He sighed, noting the damaged leather the goblin was wearing.

The elf darted behind them as Alburet stepped forward and prepared to attack the goblin. “I’ll heal you,” the elf panted as she came to a stop behind Bob.

“Keep your light off of me,” Bob said without malice as he cast another Fire Blast.

Alburet grunted as his attack connected with the goblin’s knee and pulling its attention to himself. “I got it,” he said, “give me a second to get more aggro, Bob.”

Bob paused in his casting as he had been asked to do, watching his master get hit hard. “You should dodge more,” Bob said with a chuckle.

“Smart ass imp,” Alburet hissed as the cut really hurt him. “I should make you tank.”

“Squishy imp, remember? And it would lower my happiness, which is so close to the next level,” Bob laughed.

Alburet was about to reply but a second swing gashed him, leaving him breathless for a second. A white light encircled him gently and he sighed in relief as the pain vanished. “I love that.” Alburet laughed, landing another attack on the goblin’s chest, giving up on trying to do just head shots.

Bob just sniggered before he cast another Fire Blast, “Which part do you love, the pain or the healing?”

“He sure is a lippy little bastard isn’t he?” the elf said.

Laughing, Alburet parried the next attack, “Oh, yes. My fault though. I told him to be himself. Now I’m wondering if that was such a good idea.”

The next Fire Blast went wide, “Oops, I missed,” Bob chuckled, “Can’t aim if I’m nervous I guess.”

“Ha ha,” Alburet replied as he slammed his staff into the goblins chest and shoved it back a step, “If you miss again before this mob dies I think I shall invoke a five minute silence for you. Since you don’t need to say anything to cast your spells it shouldn’t affect your damage.”

The next blast caught the goblin square in the face, killing it, “Woohoo, no silence for me.” Bob did a little jig, laughing wildly.

The healer shook her head, “He’s a bit weird. The only other Summoner I’ve seen was bitching about his imp not helping as it should, though, so maybe this is an improvement. But gods, it must get annoying.”

Alburet touched the corpse which vanished, leaving a bag behind. Touching that, he blinked at the notification, “This one had supplies.”

LOOT:

1 Supply cache

“Oh! I still need three of those,” the healer said with a smile. “I’m Marysue, by the way.”

Alburet groaned at the name, “I’m Alburet. Really, you named your healer Marysue?”

She sighed, “It happens to be my real name as well. I always get that when I play online games, maybe it’s because I always play a healer.”

“Could be, considering a Marysue always wants to help others,” Alburet agreed. “It was your mob so I guess the supplies should go to you.” He stood up, turning away from the bag on the ground, “Why are you trying to solo out here anyway?”

“Wasn’t my intention,” she said, picking up the supplies. “My friend is late and I have no idea why.”

Alburet said sympathetically, “Want to group up then? We can split the supplies evenly while we do.”

“Sounds great. Trying to solo as a healer sucks unless it’s undead, then I can fuck them up royally,” Marysue grinned. “So, you are the de-facto tank since the imp doesn’t want me to heal him.”

Groaning, Alburet sighed then gave his best depressed robot voice, “Don’t talk to me about pain, I know pain.”

“I’m Bob,” Bob said, showing his many pointed teeth to Marysue. “Don’t mind him. He does surprisingly well as a sponge.”

Alburet was about to reply when he saw a goblin running towards them, “Next one is up.” He threw a Fire Blast as the goblin closed the distance, having just enough time for a second one before the goblin was in melee range. “Two shots in. Light him up, Bob,” Alburet called out as he parried the first attack from the goblin.

The next half an hour went smoothly for the most part. Alburet was all but reduced to tears a few times when he was hit in the head after failing to dodge, until Marysue healed him. She finished getting her five supplies while Alburet had just gotten his second and found they didn’t stack.

“The supplies don’t stack? What a farce,” Alburet said with a sigh.

“That’s why it’s only five for the minimum quest,” Marysue replied. “Most of us only have the default twenty slot bag still.”

Alburet chuckled, thinking of his hundred slot backpack. “Yeah, that can get interesting if you have other stuff in there already.” He looked into his dusty satchel which had no more room and sighed as realized that he’d forgotten to sell the crap from the prison. The extra set of ragged leather from a goblin and a rusty short sword had filled up the rest of the bag. “Anyway, if we could find an actual tank we could see about pushing into the fort.”

“Mary,” a deep voice boomed.

Alburet looked over to see the romance novel hero, complete with tight leather armor jogging towards them. The newcomer’s long blonde hair fluttered in the light breeze as he came towards them. Alburet noted the kite shield and sword the guy had in hand.

Marysue looked over, smiling, “Hey Gerald. Took you long enough. What happened to being here this morning?”

“Yeah, sorry about that,” Gerald said as he came to a stop next to them. “I forgot to set my alarm. Did I miss anything?” Gerald turned to Alburet while taking a half step towards Marysue in a slightly possessive way.

“I’m Alburet. I was helping her survive since you hadn’t turned up and she was being chased by the goblins.” Alburet said, sighing inwardly as he crossed Marysue off the possible fun times list. “Now that you’re here, we can think about heading into the keep and staking out a corner. A group that came out earlier said that the armbands drop inside.”

Gerald eyed him for a moment before smiling, “Well, thanks for helping her out. I’m up for going inside the walls, as a Defender I can tank with the best of them as long as Mary backs me up.”

Mary blushed slightly, “Oh stop. You’re a much better tank than I am a healer. Let me toss you an invite, and if we can get another two DPS we can even try the dungeon once we hit level eight.”

Alburet perked up, “A dungeon? There’s a dungeon here?”

Laughing, Gerald nodded, “You must not have done much in the beta. Goblin Fort is the name of the area as well as the name of the dungeon. The entrance is the main doors of the main keep building. In fact, since me and Mary are level seven already we should just grab two more DPS now and grind the interior walls until we can step into the dungeon.”

“I’m close to seven, but not there yet,” Alburet added, “I like the idea though. Let’s do it.”

Mary turned to the field and raised her voice, “Need two DPS to level to eight and try the dungeon.”

The ten closest people who weren’t actively engaged in a fight came running over shouting that they wanted in. Mary took a step back, holding up her hands as they bore down on her. Gerald stepped into the way speaking up, “Calm the fuck down, damn it, or none of you will go.” That brought the players up short but they still tried to talk over each other.

“Yo, one at a time. Our healer has final say,” Alburet said, using his command voice which shut the people up. “Better. Let’s start with you,” he tapped the player nearest him.

Each player introduced themselves, stating their class and level as Alburet pointed to each. Once they had run through the ten people who wanted to go, Mary took the level eight Elementalist Dwarven male, Rocksure. She also took the level seven female Lunari Berserker, Fluffball as the fifth party member to round them out. “Sorry folks, that fills us, but we might run it multiple times. If we do I’ll cycle different people in for the quests, okay?” Five players had already left, in various degrees of huff as soon as she’d chosen the initial party members. The three players left readily agreed to be on standby for their chance.

Mary laid out the ground rules for the group, “All loot is round robin. I do suggest if it is an upgrade for one of us that we hand whatever it is off to the one who can use it most. Once we hit the dungeon, remember boss loot is based on group composition and we should each get a drop from the end boss. If the other bosses drop stuff we’ll go with need before greed with a random roll to see who wins either of those categories. Any objections?”

Alburet took in the info silently but smiled when no one objected to the loot distribution. “So, we ready to rock and roll? Oh, Gerald, before we pull let me hit you with my five minute buff.”

Gerald nodded, “Okay, let’s head over to the gate.”

Fluffball fell in beside Alburet with a shy smile, “You know you’re playing the weakest class, right?”

Rolling his eyes, Alburet looked over at the tiger stripped Lunari, “I’ve heard that. I didn’t want to put up with the smell of rotting flesh like like the necro, but wanted to be a pet class so here I am.”

“Rotting flesh smell? You playing full immersion?” Fluffball asked with wide eyes, “Doesn’t that hurt?”

Laughing darkly, Alburet nodded, “Oh yeah, which makes me so happy we have a tank now. Even with the magic healing it still hurt like hell when I got cut.”

“You a masochist then?” Fluffball asked, glancing at him sideways.

“Normally closer to the opposite of that,” Alburet chuckled. “Let’s just say that I play fully immersed for a reason I can’t disclose.”

“Interesting,” Fluffball said as she licked a hand and smoothed out her fur next to her ear like she was grooming.

Alburet snorted, turning his head away, “Fricking cat.”

“Hey, no making fun of me grooming if you play with full pain enabled while tanking mobs. After all, I’m just role playing,” Fluffball said, her skin under the fur tinging red.

“Lunari can blush?” Bob spoke up for the first time since the group had filled.

“Holy shit, your imp talks?” Fluffball exclaimed, looking back at the imp.

“Better than he does at times,” Bob laughed.

“He is a right pain in the ass is what he is, but he helps,” Alburet replied.

“Helps? Who has killed more mobs since we joined up? Me, that’s who,” Bob replied, strutting slightly.

Rocksure glanced back, “Dude, you let that thing talk to you like that? The other Summoner I know has his muzzled, he got tired of it talking back.”

“I bet that imp doesn’t rock like I do, then,” Bob said, smirking.

“Whatever. Summoners suck anyway,” Rocksure sneered as they approached the gates.

“One incoming,” Gerald said, spying a Goblin Scavenger exiting the gates and heading for them.

Alburet stepped up, casting Retribution onto Gerald by slapping his back to finish the spell. “You’re good to go,” Alburet said, prepping his Fire Blast.

The fight was over in seconds, with Alburet and the others being able to focus on doing damage. Gerald sighed, “So weak. Let’s get in there.”

The group hurried through the gate and hugged a wall once they were inside. Alburet caught sight of over thirty goblins, all running around the interior along with two other full groups of players in the back corners, pulling steadily. They came to a stop in one of the front corners and Gerald nodded to them, “Alburet, your spells are the weakest so just pull them in one at a time to start with.”

Sighing inwardly at again being called weak or useless, he nodded. “Bob, don’t cast until Gerald has it, but after that feel free to go to town.”

“You got it, master,” Bob said rubbing his hands together and bouncing a little in anticipation. As he did a pop-up appeared before Alburet, who glanced at it with a smile before closing it and going to pull the first mob.

Constantly allowing your imp to follow his heart has raised his happiness.

Bob’s Happiness has reached Content.

Your Minion receives a 25% boost to stats and damage.

“Okay, game on,” Alburet called out, targeting the closest goblin. The Goblin Shieldbearer level eight, 700/700 health was wearing studded leather of bad quality and carried a tower shield and a spear. Alburet clenched his fist and opened it. “Die in a fire,” he called out threw the Fire Blast past Gerald, smacking the goblin in the side.

“Wait, what? That can't be the standard casting for that spell,” Rocksure said as he waited for Gerald to gain aggro.

Alburet chuckled, “It wasn't, but it is now. One of my first abilities was Personal Spell, which let me change the motions or verbal components of my spells.”

“You took that over the other choice?” Rocksure said shaking his head, “Dude, you got to be a newb.”

Alburet didn't respond to Rocksure, but began to shape his next Fire Blast as Gerald had already hit the goblin twice. “Alright Bob, let's do this.” Twin Fire Blasts hit the goblin in the side as Gerald was slowly spinning the mob so its back would be to the group.

As the blasts hit, Rocksure hit it with some kind of ice spell which seemed to slow it and did minimal damage. Fluffball leapt in with her sword, hacking at the mob and taking a chunk off its life. Her fur glowed with a faint red aura as she triggered her combat ability.

The fight went smoothly, with Marysue easily able to keep up with the damage the goblin did to Gerald. Gerald was laughing as he fought, clearly he didn’t have his pain sensors turned up past nerf bat levels. Fluffball seemed to enjoy herself as well as she savagely sliced into the back of the goblin. Rocksure had used an electric spell of some sort as his main damage spell.

The first mob dropped some copper which was automatically split evenly across the group as well as a small bag. Mary nodded, “We shall go in alphabetical order for loot. Take your turn, Alburet.”

Alburet touched the bag and got a blue arm band with a shield icon on it. “Arm band.”

“It have a shield on it?” Gerald asked to which Alburet nodded. “So they kept it the same from beta,” Gerald smirked. “They have a 25% drop rate off the goblins in here and a 50% chance inside the dungeon. We’re all ready to go puller. Keep an eye on Mary's mana. If it's above 50% just pull the next one when we get the one we’re fighting to 100 health.”

Nodding, Alburet picked out the next closest goblin and began to shape his spell. He found the Goblin Swordsman level eight, 650/650 health also in the same leathers as the last one, but carrying a rusty sword. “Die in a fire,” he called out, sending the spell flying into his target.

“So stupid,” Rocksure said sadly, shaking his head. “Wasn't the other choice a flat damage increase?”

“Yeah, but it would only have affected...” Alburet cut off, stepping behind Gerald and casting Retribution on him. “My weak damage reflect and my Fire Blast.”

Rocksure shook his head, “DPS is DPS. What you took isn't even a utility ability, just a cosmetic one.”

“Enough of the criticism,” Marysue said, “just do your jobs.”

The group fell into a rhythm for an hour, pulling and killing mobs with little difficulty. Alburet hit level seven, gaining a new spell while Fluffball, Marysue and Gerald all reached level eight. Dropping all his points into Intelligence this time, he checked his new spell.

Sap Strength: Mana cost: 50. Duration: 1 minute. Removes 10 strength from the target. Point your finger at the target and say the words, 'Sap Strength'. (You may modify this spell due to an ability.) Alburet tapped the area and changed the words to just 'Weaken', accepting the change.

Nodding he looked at the others who were all looking at him, “Sorry, was checking my new spell. I'm ready to go now.”

“We were thinking of going into the dungeon now, actually,” Gerald said. “It’ll be harder for you, but the rest of us are at the normal level now.”

“Are the mobs level eight inside?”

“No,” Gerald replied, “level ten, but we can take them.”

“Why don't we grind a touch longer? If you hit nine and I hit eight it’ll be even easier inside,” Alburet said.

“Some of us only got a little over an hour left and we want to hit the place is why,” Rocksure said. “We can do it with the tank and healer we have. If we dropped you and got a real DPS it would be cake.”

Biting back his reply, Alburet turned to Marysue, “It's your group. If you want go in, we go in.”

Mary smiled, “Thanks Alburet, but Gerald is really the one in charge. I made him the leader during the last fight.”

“We’re going in,” Gerald said with a smile. “We just have two goblins between us to get to the main doors. I’ll pull them both over to the wall next to the portal. Once we drop them, we step inside.”

Alburet renewed Retribution on Gerald, “Lead on, McDuff.” Gerald began to trot across the courtyard to grab the two mobs between them and the portal.

“Wrong quote, actually,” Fluffball said.

“Yeah, but most don't know the real quote,” Alburet chuckled. “Lay on, McDuff, and damned be him that first cries, 'Hold, enough!'”

Fluffball pursed her lips, “Thank you, I hate it when people misquote good lines.”

Alburet chuckled as they reached the wall, “Alas, poor Yorick! I knew, Horatio, A fellow of infinite jest, of most excellent fancy. He hath borne me on his back a thousand times, and now, how abhorred in my imagination it is! My Gorge rises at it. Here hung those lips...”

“Enough, get into the fight,” Gerald called out cutting off the line. “Recite Hamlet later. We have mobs to kill.”

“Fair enough,” Alburet smirked as he slammed his staff into a goblin's head. “I shall not quote any more full lines while combat is ongoing.”

Fluffball growled as she leapt into the fray, glowing her usual red from the Berserker buff. “I enjoyed it, not many can actually get the lines right from any of Shakespeare's plays.”

Mary giggled, “So if he did the garden scene of Romeo and Juliet to you...”

Fluff missed her next attack as she spun towards Mary blinking, “What?”

“Enough,” Gerald roared, “We are fighting here.”

Rocksure sighed, “This is all the Summoner’s fault. If we kick him for a real DPS, all of these issues go away.”

“No,” Marysue replied firmly, “he was very helpful to me and he is holding his own. As long as he does as Gerald asks, he will stay.”

The fight ended a few moments later and the loot was collected. “There’s a safe spot just inside the entrance. You’ll also get the quest for the dungeon when you step in, make sure to accept it.” Gerald entered the white swirling mist that denoted the dungeon entrance. He was swiftly followed by Marysue and Rocksure.

Alburet winked at Fluffball, “But, Soft! What light through yonder window breaks?” Fluffball went a deep red through her fur before she darted into the portal, cutting him off. Alburet shrugged, “Guess not.”

“Struck out trying to catch some tail,” Bob cackled.

“Oh, you so funny,” Alburet sighed, “come on before they wonder what happened to me.” He stepped into the portal following the others.

Alburet

Human Summoner

Level 7

Strength: 5

Agility: 12

Constitution: 20

Intelligence: 25

Wisdom: 27

Charisma: 20

Health: 550

Mana: 620

Spells:

Demon Skin-Rank 2

Demonic Retribution

Summon Least Imp

Fire Blast

Sap Strength

Abilities:

Personal Spells

Goblin Fort

Alburet blinked, his vision refocusing to the dimmer light inside the fort. The interior was a hallway with lanterns providing illumination. Behind him stood the doorway out, visible through the white swirling mist that was the portal. He accepted the quest that popped up via notification when he entered.

Quest: Kill the Commander

Reward: Increased rep with all Stormguard factions

Bonus: Kill the two optional bosses and receive random bonus loot from Quartermaster.

“Good, we’re all here,” Gerald said, “okay, the layout here is quick and easy. There are three bosses total, two of them optional. The Jailer in the basement prison area isn't all that bad. This level has the Captain of the Guard, he summons adds throughout the fight and can be a little tricky. The real boss is on the second floor. Named Guglug, he’s the commander of the fort. Guglug summons adds like the Captain, so when we do that fight you will get an idea of how the commander works. He’ll also throw poison clouds around the room which means you need to be on your toes.”

“We have patrols and trash packs to kill first,” Marysue reminded him.

“Right,” he nodded at Mary, “the packs mostly come in shield, melee and caster trios. I will grab all of them. Kill the caster first, then the melee and finally the shield user. Any questions?” No one spoke so Gerald nodded, “Right. Alburet, give me your buff and then go to the end of the hall and tag the caster, then back around the corner behind me. We’re going to 'line of sight' pull as many as we can to make things easier to handle. Once I hit the caster you can all jump in on it. Leave the others alone in the meantime, I’ll have to work to keep them from aggroing on Mary as it is.”

Alburet cast Retribution on Gerald before walking down to the corner with the others behind him. He glanced around the corner, spotting the first group standing and talking in the hallway. He conjured his first Fire Blast before stepping out and hitting the caster right in the head like he was throwing a baseball. As soon as the spell hit the caster, the other two goblins ran at him and the caster started to conjure something of its own.

Alburet ducked back around the corner before the spell was done, ducking behind Gerald who was waiting. “Let the games commence,” Alburet said as he got another Fire Blast prepared. “Follow the leader, Bob.” Bob shook his head while he prepared his own Fire Blast, staying silent for once.

As the two goblins turned the corner Gerald shield bashed the sword goblin, stunning it for a second as he slashed at the Shieldbearer, scoring a hit. Both of them stopped focusing on Alburet and turned on Gerald instead.

Gerald did his best to mitigate the damage as he struck twice more with his sword. One hit the melee goblin, but the other bounced off the shield of the Shieldbearer. Just then the caster goblin turned the corner and everyone tensed, waiting for Gerald.

The Goblin Elementalist was level ten, but only had 558/600 health and 650/700 mana, it also carried a flaming ball in its hand. It tossed the fire onto Alburet, who yelled in agony as the fire burned him before Gerald could hit the goblin in turn. The others attacked the goblin caster with fury, easily cutting it down, allowing it to cast only one more spell with Gerald as the target.

The group turned its attention to the melee goblin and dispatched it easily as well, leaving the Shieldbearer for last. Alburet pursed his lips and hit it with Sap Strength as a test. The goblin looked stunned as the tower shield slipped from its arm and clattered onto the ground. Everyone else paused for a second as well, surprised by that turn of events. Everyone came back to their senses as Bob laughed and hit the mob in the face with a fire blast.

“Well done Master, stripping its strength made it unable to use the heavy shield,” Bob cackled as the group resumed the attack.

After the mobs were dead and looted, Gerald turned to Alburet. “Why didn't you do that on the pull?”

“I didn't know it would work,” he replied. “I was hoping it would drop the spear, I didn't think shields had strength requirements.”

“Yeah, my kite shield is right at the edge of my strength right now. It takes forty strength to use a weak tower shield. So I guess we know it has less than that once you weaken it. Next time we pull start with that on the Shieldbearer instead of hitting the caster. You seemed to feel that fire bolt he hit you with.”

“Yes, it was not fun. Playing full immersion sometimes is a right pain,” Alburet admitted. “Thankfully, when Marysue heals me the pain vanishes. We good for the next group?”

Gerald frowned at him but nodded, “Yeah. We go down the hall to the next corner and repeat the last pull.”

Once everyone was set Alburet looked around the corner to find another group of the same kinds of goblins waiting there. He buffed Gerald with Retribution then turned the corner and cast Sap Strength on the Shieldbearer. The Shieldbearer dropped its shield and kept trying to pick it up as the melee ran towards him and the caster began a spell.

Ducking back behind Gerald, Alburet advised them, “Caster is trying to cast and the Shieldbearer is trying to pick his shield up, it should take a minute.”

Gerald grunted and slashed the melee goblin as it came around the corner. “Okay, we’ll have a minute or so to kill the caster.” As he finished talking the caster came around the corner and he cut it. “All on the caster.”

The caster was down and the melee almost down when the Shieldbearer came around the corner. It slammed its shield into Alburet before anyone knew it had made it to them, stunning him for two seconds.

Gerald switched over to the Shieldbearer and used his taunt to get aggro. “Finish the melee first,” he said as he began to build more aggro on the defending goblin.

Once the stun wore off, Alburet cast Sap Strength onto the Shieldbearer, again stripping it of the protection it wanted and allowing the others to cut it down easily. “This looks like it’s working out good, but I think I'll stand further back next time.” Alburet chuckled as Marysue’s healing took away the pain from his bruised face.

“Well, looks like you might be useful for something after all,” Rocksure said with contempt. “Get your loot so we can move.”

“Is your mom yelling at you about the time, Rock?” Alburet asked blandly as he picked up his fifth Goblin Supply, finishing that quest for him as well as another Defender armband.

“Fuck you dude, just cuz I slept with your mom last night,” Rocksure said bristling.

“So you’re a necrophiliac? Guess you’re playing the wrong class then, eh?” Alburet rejoined quickly, smiling broadly, knowing he was lying about his mother being dead but wanting to needle the fucker.

“Knock it the fuck off, both of you,” Gerald said firmly. “The next one to snipe at the other will be removed from the group.”

Alburet held back the automatic 'yes mom' reply that tried to get out. He nodded, “We going to keep clearing the patrols before we tackle any of the bosses?”

“Yes. We’ll clear this floor before meeting the Captain in his room. It won't matter for the adds, but that's the way I want it in case we die during the fight.” Gerald said as he motioned Alburet on, “After you, puller.”

Alburet dipped a shallow bow, “Why thank you, sir.” He started walking to find the next patrol or group.

The next few pulls were repeats of the last one, except that Alburet didn’t get damaged when the Shieldbearer finally showed up since he stayed further back after pulling. After they completed a circuit of the ground floor they walked back to the door that had a plaque notifying them it was the Captain's Room.

“Okay, remember, he will call adds,” Gerald said. “I’ll pick them up as best I can. Once I have them, burn the adds down first. He calls them at 75%, 50%, and 25% life and goes into a frenzy at 10% life which is where you need to go all out. Any questions?”

When no one had any Gerald held out a fist, “No one else has cleared this place yet, so let's do it.” The rest of them bumped fists together before Gerald opened the door. Just before he walked in Alburet hit him with Retribution, getting a nod of thanks from Gerald.

The room was large, maybe fifty feet square with shelves holding various knickknacks along the walls. The center of the room held a massive Oak desk behind which sat a goblin easily half again as big as the ones they had been facing already.

“Who dares interrupt my paperwork?” The Goblin Captain roared as he got to his feet grabbing his two-handed sword from next to the desk.

Alburet targeted it and took in the information, Captain of the Guard level 11, 1500/1500 health. Alburet noted the rusty steel cap on the goblin’s head as well as the rusty chain shirt and leather pants. Pursing his lips, Alburet put his back to a wall and slid along it waiting for Gerald to grab aggro.

“The King of Stormguard sends his greetings,” Gerald replied with a dark smile.

The Captain bellowed and came around the desk to be met by Gerald's upraised shield. The three DPS waited impatiently as Gerald landed his first attack. Alburet caught Bob's eyes and pointed to the goblin’s legs, getting a nod in return.

As the Gerald’s third blow landed he shouted, “Got him, let's do this.”

As Gerald spoke Fluffball launched herself across the room to close the distance as Rocksure, Alburet and Bob all hit the Captain with spells. Bob and Alburet hit the legs of the Captain, getting a little more damage as the armor value was lower there.

Rocksure's spell hit the goblin in the head and he frowned, “Fucking helm is negating a chunk of my damage.”

“Go for the legs,” Alburet said as his next spell again hit the Captain's legs. “Armor cuts that amount off the damage, but only part its value for spells. Leather has a lower value than rusty steel.”

“I know that,” Rocksure yelled back in irritation, as he did but had forgotten and gotten used to all the other goblins that hadn't been wearing helms.

At 75% life the Captain roared loudly and a trio of adds came through the door. Mary, who was in the back of the room, made sure to tell them all. Alburet targeted the Shieldbearer and cast Sap Strength on it, making it drop the shield. It stopped for a second, trying to pick the shield up, before forgetting it and trying to cross the room to Mary, who had healing aggro.

Gerald hit the melee as it tried to go by, getting its attention, before turning to the now shieldless Shieldbearer and repeating the process. The caster, though, stood just inside the door and threw fire at Mary making her call out for help.

“Bob, focus the caster, I'm going in.” Alburet said as he rushed to the caster, throwing Retribution on himself. “I'll tank the caster if Rock can kill it,” Alburet said as he slammed his staff into the caster's face as it had been ignoring him.

“That wasn't the plan,” Gerald grunted as he tried to stop the three attacking him.

“You can't turn your back to them,” Alburet said as he blocked a swing of the caster’s dagger. “So we adapt and deal with this.”

Rocksure ignored Alburet and focused on the melee goblin with Fluffball, acting as if he hadn't heard any of what Alburet had said.

Alburet growled as he slowly whittled the caster down, focusing on taking as little damage as possible. As the caster dropped, he turned to see the spear wielder going down. “All adds down,” he called out, stepping back over next to Bob.

He was hurt, but not too much still at 480/550 health. He wished he regained health in combat like he did mana. As he watched, Rocksure smirked at him before going back to focusing on the boss.

“Alright, next time we handle the adds the same way,” Gerald said as his health was being replenished by Mary. He had taken a beating from the two adds as well as the boss.

“Sure thing,” Alburet replied as he went back to casting, speaking between Fire Blasts. “I can solo the caster again.”

“I am going to need to get mana back between the second and third adds, master,” Bob said.

“Do what you have to, Bob,” Alburet replied as his mana had topped back up during the melee fight with the caster.

The second add pack was the same as the first and dispatched the same way, though Alburet wound up at 400/550 health by the time he was done as he missed a few parry attempts. “Adds down,” he called out as his dropped.

“Regaining mana,” Bob said as he sat down and pulled out an emery board.

“What the fuck? Really, an emery board?” Alburet said, glancing down at the imp who grinned up at him and winked.

“Naw, just fucking with you,” Bob got back to his feet and leaned against the wall. “It was funny as hell though, to see that expression.”

“Gods, you are annoying as shit sometimes Bob,” Alburet said as he threw his next Fire Blast onto the Captain.

“Cut the banter with the imp,” Gerald called out. “No point to having useless conversations during a boss fight.”

Alburet rolled his eyes and saw Bob flip Gerald off while sticking his tongue out. Chuckling, Alburet tossed his next Fire Blast as Bob looked up at him, winking.

When the last set of adds rolled in, things got interesting. This time it was three casters, who all threw fire onto Mary.

“HELP!” Mary cried out.

Gerald turned and got tossed into a wall by the boss as his attention deviated too much. “Get them,” he wheezed as he got back to his feet.

Alburet had already crossed to the casters and thumped each of them, now having all the aggro for himself. He backed up a step as two of them began to cast while he parried the dagger strike of the one closest to him.

Fluffball came across the room in a leaping bound, sinking her weapon into the middle goblin with a growl. “Got this one,” she said as she began to hack at it like a woman possessed.

“Fine, I'll get the other one,” Rocksure said throwing a bolt of lightning at it. That wasn't enough to pull the aggro so it threw its fire bolt onto Alburet, who winced, which also got him stabbed by the dagger.

“Bob?”

“I'm on it,” the imp said, throwing Fire Blasts at the one Rocksure was attacking.

The trio of casters died, leaving all the DPS injured, with Alburet being the worst off at 300/550 health. “All adds down,” Alburet called out.

“Okay, get ready for the burn phase,” Gerald called out as the boss was down to 18% by the time the DPS went back to attacking it. “When it frenzies it will do double the damage twice as fast, so Mary might not be able to keep me up.”

“I'm running low on mana,” Mary said. “I think you’ll drop, so do not run out of the room guys. Do your best to kill it if Gerald drops, otherwise it resets and we have to do it all over again.”

Alburet nodded, throwing another Fire Blast and waited as he was going to hit the boss with Sap Strength as soon as it Frenzied. At 10% the boss began to flash red and foam at the mouth and it started swinging faster. Alburet hit it with his spell and hoped that would help before going back to Fire Blast.

At 5% Gerald went down as Mary called that she was out of mana. She rushed in with her staff as the boss turned on Fluffball. As the boss did that, Rocksure edged towards the door while he cast his spells.

“Bob,” Alburet said as he tilted his head towards the door. “Make sure he doesn't.”

Bob nodded but kept casting his own spells as Fluffball was cut down. Mary was dropped with one shot right after that. Rocksure ran for the door, but Bob got there and stood in the door all two foot of him just enough to stop Rocksure from getting by easily.

“Move, you fucking imp,” Rocksure said grabbing at Bob, who darted away just as the two handed sword hit Rocksure. “Fuck you, Alburet,” Rocksure said flipping him off as the next swing killed him, leaving just Bob and Alburet in the room with the boss at 1% health.

“Bob, kill him,” Alburet said as he backed away from the Captain who ran at him with sword raised high. As the goblin got into range Alburet rolled in and under the leading arm, feeling the wind from the swing go over his back.

“I think I can take one hit, maybe two,” Alburet said as Bob kept casting. He grunted as he was hit before he could get to his feet, knocking him flat. “Fuck,” Alburet said as the sword came down and took off most of the rest of his hit points, leaving him at 10/550.

He clenched up waiting for the final stroke, but heard a loud thud behind him. Looking back, he found the Captain dead and Bob smirking. “Who kills all the mobs?” He jerked both thumbs into his small chest, “This imp, that's who.”

Rolling over, Alburet groaned from the intense pain that washed through him. He breathed a sigh of relief as he started regaining health once he was out of combat. He was just getting to his feet when Gerald, Marysue and Fluffball came back into the room.

“Where is Rocksure?” Alburet asked.

“Kicked,” Gerald said bluntly, “he was told not to run for the door and still tried, which meant you wouldn't have been able to kill the boss like you did. Thanks for standing your ground,” Gerald said patting his shoulder. “Let's see about the loot then I have to step out and see about getting a new DPS.”

Touching the bag Gerald nodded, “Nice, a ring with Strength and Constitution, +1 to each. Captain's Band is the name of it. I need it. Fluff?”

“I would like to need it, too,” Fluffball said, “my main stat is strength after all.”

“Okay. Use the random roll function in your UI,” Marysue said.

Alburet watched as they both knelt and each rolled a die across the floor. A bright red 48 appeared above Fluffball while an 82 appeared above Gerald. “Looks like I win,” Gerald said as he took the ring and put it on.

“Damn,” Fluffball said shaking her head, “congratulations on winning.”

“Grats,” Marysue and Alburet said in near unison.

“Okay, five minute break. I'll be back with another DPS,” Gerald said as he headed for the front door.

Alburet walked over to the desk and sat down in the chair with a sigh. “Five minute power nap sounds awesome.”

Fluffball came over to the desk taking a seat on the edge of it, “I'm curious about something?”

Alburet nodded to her, “Hmm?”

“You look like a thug with the scar and short cropped hair but you know Shakespeare so well. Which one of them is the real you?” Her voice was a tad uncertain as she asked the question.

“Both, actually. I worked in law enforcement for years which is why the hair and scar, both match my real self. I thinned down the body a little, being in my thirties in real life, I've got a paunch, but who doesn't really? As for the Bard, I loved his plays when I was younger. The basic morality they talk about always drew me in.”

“Worked? You retired or something?” Fluffball asked.

“I am currently living off the government,” Alburet replied with a blank face. “Then again, all police live off the government I guess, technically, as do people with pensions from federal, state or county governments.” He chuckled and smiled at her, “What about you, why the Lunari race?”

Fluffball blushed slightly, “It deters quite a lot of men from hitting on me in game. I would probably have played as a man if I could have just to stop it, but sadly Mindblown hasn't changed their policy on that yet.”

“So, do you identify as male or just hate it when guys ogle you?”

“The second. Last game I played I had a stalker following me around in game. He was trying to find out my real address as well. Scared the hell out of me.” She gave a small shudder when she said the last few words.

“I must be okay then if you’re chatting at me like this,” Alburet chuckled.

Fluffball groomed her ear again watching him closely for any signs of disgust and not seeing any. “No, I think you might be okay. If you were a cop at some point I'm sure you won't be turning into a stalker or anything like that. Honestly, you just seem safe, like a vibe you give off of safety and security.”

Alburet let out a small laugh, “I'm sure the fact that if you nut punch me here I will fold like a cheap suit also helps.”

“Now that you mention it, that does help,” she giggled. “So why can't you say, you know about the immersion?”

Wagging a finger back and forth Alburet shook his head, “I can't say. I can't hint at, give clues, or anything like that. I would love to be able to, but my hands are tied.”

“Fine,” Fluffball said with a long sigh mingling with the words. “How long you going to be around for after we clear?”

One eyebrow raised, “That depends, did you have something in mind?”

Fluffball blinked then stood up abruptly, “I was just thinking of killing more goblins was all. You know, outside the dungeon, that's what I was asking about.” Her words came fast, tumbling over each other as she spoke.

Alburet raised both hands palms towards her, “Woah, hold up there speedy, it's okay. I'm sure that is what you meant. I was just checking was all. I will be more than happy to kick it around with you outside the dungeon and slaughter goblins. You get to tank though, as I don't want to be curled into a fetal ball half the time.”

Laughing, she nodded, “Deal.”

“You two seem to get along,” Mary said, causing both of them to blink as they looked at her, as they’d both forgotten she was there. “It's nice to see that, instead of people like Rocksure who always bitching and complaining about others.”

“Thanks,” Alburet said, “by the way, take this. You can use it when we get to the end boss.” He handed the small mana potion to her. “I don't think I'll get much use out of it and one more heal from you could make the difference.”

Marysue smiled broadly, “Wow, thanks! These are hard to get at our level. What quest did you get it from?”

“Found it in a chest, actually,” Alburet said. “It also had a health potion with it but I used that long before I met you.”

“I'm going to have to find another weapon soon,” Fluffball said after a moment of silence. “Mine is fading. It should last until we finish, unless we die again.”

Alburet pulled the rusty pitted great sword from his bag and set it on the desk, “Want to use this until it breaks for trash clearing, then?”

Fluffball looked at it, frowning, then picked it up, “If you don't mind. I can use it, it's a small DPS decrease but it will keep my weapon going longer that way.”

“Can you wear chain?”

“Yeah, why?”

Alburet looked at her leather, “Does that have better than 14 armor?”

“Fifteen,” Fluffball answered in her full leather outfit.

Placing the chain shirt on the table Alburet nodded to it. “Fourteen armor for chest, if you want to try out some chain for a bit, one armor difference won't hurt. Also, it's trash basically, barely worth a handful of copper.”

Fluffball eyed him for a minute then picked it up slowly before she stepped out into the hall. When she came back in she was wearing the rusty chain shirt. Alburet chuckled, the game didn't go stupid with female armor but it still snug chain at least.

“Not as form fitting as the leather, but it does show more of your fur,” Alburet said. “Looks good to me.”

Fluffball smiled, “Just glad I have fur, otherwise my abs would be showing though the links.”

“Yeah, but you make stripes look good,” Alburet complimented her.

Bob gagged behind Alburet, “Lame.”

Fluffball giggled as she blushed lightly, “The imp is right, that was a bit lame.”

“It's been awhile since I’ve really talked to a woman,” Alburet said defensively.

“Oh?” Mary asked her brow raised.

Shaking his head, Alburet covered his head and placed it on the desk. “I yield, have mercy oh mighty healer.”

The two women broke into laughter and Bob cackled as Gerald came back into the room with DrFrank followed by a skeleton. “Okay, we have another DPS. Let's head on into the cells below and take out the jailer.”

“Heya Frankster, good to see you again,” Alburet said as he stood up stretching.

DrFrank looked at Alburet and sighed, “Great, the fucking noob is still here. When you said you lost one I thought it was going to be him.”

Alburet shook his head, “That's how the last one started and then he was removed from the group. Food for thought and all that. Which way, Gerald?”

Gerald led them off with DrFrank looking thoughtful as they went to the set of stairs they had passed previously. “Okay, there’s a room at the bottom with a pack of mobs. Pull them up to us, Al,” Gerald said, stepping back.

“Alburet please, not Al. I don't go shortening you name Ger. But first a buff for you and refreshing my Demon Skin.” Alburet cast the two buffs before going to pull. Walking down the stairs, he crouched so he could get a look at the group of four mobs. Two Goblin Swordsmen along with two Goblin Shieldbearers standing in the middle of a room which had three doors leading off of it. Targeting one of the Shieldbearers, Alburet pointed his finger, “Weaken.” As he cast the spell he turned and bolted back up the stairs and behind Gerald. “Two swords incoming, along with one shield, the other one is still trying to pick his shield up.”

“Got it. Focus the swordsmen first,” Gerald said, bracing for the rush. The DPS held back as the trio of mobs appeared. Once Gerald had hit one of the sword users twice they unloaded on it. Fluffball seemed like a woman possessed as she hacked into the target with the two-handed sword. Frank tossed black balls of magic after he told his skeleton to attack.

Alburet chipped in a second later, smirking over the fact he didn't have to command Bob. “See that Bob? You’re smarter than a skeleton.”

“Too bad you are on the same level as the skeleton,” Bob snickered back.

DrFrank frowned at them and Gerald sighed, “Stop the chatter, please.”

Mary giggled as she tossed heals onto Gerald, but didn't say anything. As the second swordsman died the second Shieldbearer came up the stairs. Alburet targeted first one then the other, making them drop their shields as he hit them with Sap Strength.

“The more damaged one first,” Gerald said as both lost their defense.

Alburet was silently laughing, as after each kill DrFrank had to tell his skeleton to switch targets. Bob on the other hand, just followed along already knowing the drill. Once the four mobs were dead they looted up. Alburet got another Goblin Supply as well as a Broken Tower Shield.

“Oh, junk for sale,” Alburet said leaning on the shield before placing it into the smaller bag. He quickly tossed the stuff he wanted to keep into his bigger bag. “Okay, room with three doors at the bottom.”

“Yeah. We’ll do left then right before we go down the middle one which leads to the mini-boss.” Gerald said as he started to descend.

Fluffball hung back a second, “Thanks for giving me the trash weapon, Alburet. I checked my abilities and with a large weapon equipped the base modifier goes up. It tells me the right way to play the Berserker is with a large weapon. I’ll give up on the idea of a dual wielding Berserker for now. I still hope an ability will make that viable later on, though.”

Alburet walked with her down the stairs, “Luck, but I'm a horrible person for that kind of thing. After all, I picked the cosmetic ability at fifth level.”

“I like the idea of being able to change spells,” Mary said from just behind them. “I’ll pick it up myself before level twenty, probably. I hate the whole 'I beseech my god to heal my ally' thing to cast healing.”

“Right,” Alburet nodded, “that's what I thought.”

“DPS should always take the DPS increase,” DrFrank said. “Anything else hurts the party. Healers can get away with some frivolous choices.”

Gerald raised a single brow before coughing, “Okay, same as before Alburet.”

Alburet renewed Retribution before opening the left door. It was another room with three Goblin Swordsman mobs and one Goblin Shieldbearer. He made the Shieldbearer drop the shield for the pull, running back to Gerald again, which wasn't far as Gerald was just inside the door.

That fight as well as the next one went smoothly as the grouping was the same. “Very smooth,” Gerald said proudly. “Okay, middle door leads to a hall with cells down each wall. At the end is the Jailer against the back wall. The trick here is to put him next to a cell. The mob in the cell will help us kill him. Every 10% life he turns and one shots the mob and we drag him to the next cell. Once he gets to 10% he frenzies like the last boss. Do NOT run up the stairs. We all live or we all die. Once we get him to the last cell slip past him so we can use the hallway to retreat down. Any questions?”

Bob spoke up, “What things are in the cells?”

“Slaves that the goblins captured from the farmlands,” Gerald shrugged. “Not a Paladin so I don't care.  We’ll use them as this boss has a truckload of health.”

“Sounds like fun times,” Alburet said.

“Everyone is full, so let's go,” Gerald said, opening the door into the dimly lit hall. There were nine cells, five down one side and four down the other with twenty feet between them. “Hit me, Alburet.”

Alburet clapped his hands before touching Gerald, “Retribution.” Gerald walked down the hall with the others trailing him. At the back of the hall against the wall stood a very large and very fat goblin in leather pants and hood but bare chested, holding a glowing poker.

“Okay, on three I charge and drag him to the first cell,” Gerald said, then counted to three and rushed forward. He got three hits in on the Jailer before he got it positioned at which point the DPS opened up on it.

As they fought, the slaves in the cells began to beseech the players to save them. Alburet blocked them out and checked how they were doing against the mini-boss, The Jailer level 11, 3800/4000 health.

As they killed the Jailer Alburet noticed that the Jailer wasn't doing a lot of damage to Gerald. At 3600/4000 the Jailer spun and slammed his poker through the chest of the elf slave that had been attacking with them. He blinked as a buff came up on the Jailer’s health bar, Broken Slave. He focused on the icon and winced, “He gets a 20% damage increase for each slave he kills.”

Gerald blinked but nodded, “I think they changed the fight from beta then. I thought he was hitting easier. New plan, I'm going to try and push him back, we need to try and stop him from killing the others. If we only had a Trapsmith who could free them during the fight.”

Alburet pursed his lips then stopped casting and turned to the cell next to him. He pulled out the dagger from the prison and began to poke at the lock with it, wishing he still had the letter opener. After a few second he knew the dagger was too wide and turned back to the fight.

“I can try,” Bob said as he flung another Fire Blast.

“Do it,” Alburet said.

Bob turned to the cell and studied the lock for a minute. Alburet stopped watching as he focused on the fight. A few seconds later the door opened and the slave rushed out with a cry of joy, fleeing up the stairs. “One free,” Bob said proudly.

Quest: Save the Slaves

Reward: A surprise at the Stormguard Keep

“What the fuck,” Gerald said not daring to turn around.

“Bob is unlocking the cells,” Alburet said. “Since this guy is a cream puff right now it shouldn't be an issue.”

“He got another buff when the slave fled. Lost Slave, it gives him 10% more health.” Gerald replied, “Stop freeing them.”

“Bob, change of plans,” Alburet said before Bob could free another slave. “We’ll free them after hopefully.

The group went back to working the boss and when he went to 3200/4400 he rushed to the cell of the slave that had been freed, then growled and turned back to Gerald. As the boss rushed by Gerald the group stepped back, but as the boss went back to attacking Gerald they relaxed. When the next time came at 2800/4400 he again rushed to the closest cell, which was still empty, then went back to Gerald again.

“So if you get two cells empty somehow he won't keep getting buffs,” Mary said between heals. “We have the new strategy.”

“Good, now we just have to keep chipping away,” Gerald said.

The rest of the fight was anti-climactic for the most part. Alburet had to recast Retribution on Gerald before the last 10% phase. When the boss hit frenzy he doubled in size and began to hit anyone in melee range, which forced Fluffball to retreat as her health took a beating. Mary was able to keep Gerald up through the frenzy, even with Fluffball not being able to help, eventually the boss dropped dead.

A flash of light happened for everyone in the group. Alburet went to level eight as did DrFrank, the other three all hit level nine. “Level up before we move on,” Gerald said.

The group let out a cheer and sat down to level as Bob went down the row of cells releasing slaves. “He seems way more useful than I thought he would be,” DrFrank said grudgingly.

“Hear that Bob? The Doc gives you a good review,” Alburet called out as the imp was freeing the last slave. He finished adding his points into Wisdom and checked his new spell.

“Yeah, but all of his patients are dead so that doesn't bode well,” Bob said as he skipped back to them.

Alburet laughed then nodded at his spell. Demonic Haze: Mana cost: 50. Duration: 5 minutes/1 minute. On a friendly target raises Constitution by 10 for 5 minutes. On a hostile target lowers Constitution by 5 for 1 minute. May only be cast on one target at a time. To use this spell, point your finger into the air then at your target while saying the words “Infernal Mist.” (You may modify this spell due to an ability.) Alburet changed it, leaving the hand motion the same but changing the words to 'Bloody Haze'.

Mary giggled, “Oh! I get it now. Doctor Frankenstein right?”

Alburet closed his eyes in sympathy for Gerald, who seemed to care for the woman who didn't get the Necromancers name right away.

“That is correct,” DrFrank said with a laugh. “I want to make a monster, after all.”

Gerald coughed, “So, the loot is a necklace with +2 Constitution. Anyone else think they need it?” No one spoke up so Gerald took it and put it on, “Okay. We head back up then take the stairs leading up to the next floor. One pack of trash then the boss.”

They all got back to their feet and started walking, “Hey, we’re doing really well and found a new quest to boot.” Marysue said happily as they climbed to the first floor. “Thanks all of you for coming with.”

“Thanks for having us,” Alburet said automatically.

“It's been good,” Fluffball said brightly. “Two levels, all my quests done, and bonus quests to boot.”

“Wish I had been here at the start,” Frank said before sighing. “Oh well, it was nice of the dungeon quest to credit me with both kills when the jailer died. I should probably submit it as a bug just in case, though.”

“Yeah,” Mary nodded, “that way they’ll know we didn't try and cheat the system.”

They climbed the stairs to the second level with Alburet in the lead. A hall lay before him with two large goblins standing before the single door, Goblin Bodyguards level 11, 900/900 health. No visible weapons which concerned Alburet, so looked back at Gerald. “No weapons?”

Gerald nodded, “They use unarmed attacks but still hit like a truck. Buff me and let's go,” he said with a smile.

Alburet nodded, casting Retribution followed by Demonic Haze on Gerald before targeting one of the Bodyguards. He cast Fire Blast, throwing it down the hall like a missile. It splashed against the studded leather the goblin was wearing. He hurried down the stairs to Gerald at the base of the landing.

The two goblins rushed down only to met Gerald and his shield. Alburet understood the Bodyguards used no weapons, allowing their attacks to come very fast. He targeted the first one to be hit three times, landing a Sap Strength on it then the other before starting up his Fire Blast spam.

When the first Bodyguard went down the other one went into a rage and his speed and damage ramped up. “Fuck, they had a linked rage counter,” Gerald said as he all but huddled behind his shield.

Gerald ended up with 100 health remaining even with Mary’s heals by the time the second one dropped. Panting, he spoke, “Fuck that was intense. Like having a jack hammer attacking you.”

Alburet bit his lip, not saying the first thing that came to his mind but Bob didn't hold back. “So like me going after the last Succubus I was with.”

Marysue's eyes went big and round, Fluffball blushed crimson while DrFrank laughed hard. Gerald shook his head, “You might want to muzzle that thing after all.”

Alburet shook his head, “Bob is not a thing. Bob is a he as he just clearly stated. Even if he did do so in a rather inappropriate way.” The others all began to climb the stairs. Alburet held out his hand palm up and Bob slapped it, chuckling. “Good one.” Bob held up a thumbs up as they followed the others up the stairs and into the hall.

“Okay,” Gerald said, “last boss is right ahead of us in his office. He’ll summon adds at each quarter of his life. Kill the adds first, caster adds have priority over others. At every 10% he throws a poison cloud at a random player. Just move out of it, but note that it stays until the fight is over so when you move be mindful of it. I'm sure he’ll frenzy at the end as well, that seems to be the go to mechanic in here.”

No one had any questions so they approached the door and paused. Gerald held out his fist, “Let's get us some loot.” Everyone bumped fists, then Alburet buffed Gerald before Gerald opened the door walking in followed by the others.

The room was large, easily sixty feet square. The only two things taking up floor space were a desk and a large map table with figurines on it. The Commander was massive for a goblin, easily twice the size the Captain had been. Alburet focused on him to acquire the information: Guglug, Goblin Commander level 12, 1800/1800 health. Guglug was dressed in a chain shirt minus the rust and held twin swords.

“Okay everyone, you know the plan. Let's kill him,” Gerald shouted as he crossed to Guglug, who came around the desk to meet him wielding dual swords.

“I shall send your corpses back to your pathetic king,” Guglug roared as he lunged at Gerald.

Alburet tossed a Sap Strength on Guglug, hoping that it would help at least a little as he waited for the third attack so he could start his damage. Once Gerald shouted he started in along with the others. The first part of the fight was boring until he threw the first vial of poison at Fluffball. She darted, aside catching a small part of the cloud which drained almost 10% of her life in that single second she was inside the cloud.

Fluffball was coughing hard for a few seconds as she cleared her lungs, “It burns, so be careful.” She paused for another second before rejoining the fight. The second Poison Cloud went to DrFrank, who was moving as the vial was in the air, easily dodging it thanks to the distance it had to travel and being prepared.

The first set of adds come swiftly after that as the boss dropped to 1350/1800. Alburet was already turning to the door to see a single caster and a Shieldbearer. He weakened the Shieldbearer, making it drop its shield and allowing Gerald to pick it up as it tried to go past him to Mary. The three DPS stopped hitting the boss and focused the caster down quickly, with Fluffball taking the brunt of the damage which left her at 72% of her life.

They turned after the caster died and killed the Shieldbearer next, who hadn’t been able to reclaim its shield, before again focusing on the boss. Mary dodged the third vial easily, but the fourth vial cost Gerald almost twenty percent of his life before he was able to side step clear, coughing the whole time as he held his shield up and didn't even try to attack until he could see again.

Alburet was already moving when the next vial came, so it easily missed him as he went towards the door as the next set of adds came in. Two casters and a Shieldbearer this time. Alburet cast Sap Strength on the Shieldbearer again, making it drop the shield. Fluffball and Frank's skeleton were each tanking a caster, so Alburet went melee to regain mana faster as Bob burned down first Fluffball's add then turned to the other one as it dropped the skeleton.

DrFrank cussed and began to raise a new skeleton, which took five seconds for him to complete the spell. As he did, Bob stopped casting to regain his mana and Alburet stepped in next to Gerald to renew the Demonic Retribution and Demonic Haze buffs. He quickly backed out as the boss dropped to forty percent under the onslaught of Fluffball and DrFrank's new skeleton.

It was a good thing he was in motion as it meant he only caught the faintest hint of the poison cloud that exploded near him. Alburet gagged, dry heaving as he moved away. The air in his lungs felt heavy and harsh. He staggered for a few steps until he got clean air in his lungs, his eyes watering.

“Dear Devs, fuck you,” Alburet gasped, wiping his eyes until he could see again.

Once he was stable again he joined back into the damage. Frank dodged the vial at 30% health and the DPS all turned towards the door as the boss dropped to 450/1800 to catch the last wave of adds. Four casters came in and Alburet groaned. “Fuck, this is going to hurt. Bob, gonna need you to pull aggro on one.”

“Damn it,” Bob hissed and started chain casting his spell even faster than he had been.

Alburet went into melee against another, as Fluffball jumped onto a third and the skeleton picked up the fourth one. DrFrank focused the one on his minion first, which meant the skeleton died just before it did. Fluffball was weaving at 25% of her life as hers dropped and she turned to the one that had put Bob down to 5% of his life.

“Go home, Bob,” Alburet shouted not knowing if it would work. A cheerful cry met his ear along with a pop as Bob vanished.

Fluffball growled,” You saved the fucking imp, when I'm this badly hurt?”

Alburet nodded as he blocked another attack, hearing DrFrank casting his summoning spell. “Yes, just tap that one more time and it will fall over.”

Fluffball smashed the caster into the ground then turned to the one on Alburet and ripped its head off. Alburet blinked at the sheer ferocity that she showed in that moment. Fluffball growled at him as her eyes glowed red before she went back across the room to the boss.

Alburet, at full mana thanks to having gone to melee, stuck out his hand, “I summon Bob the Mighty.” A smoke cloud billowed and Bob appeared still at 5% health. “Welcome back. We need your help.”

“Sure thing, master,” Bob said his voice happy as he turned and began to cast at the boss again.

Mary dodged the vial at 20% and warned them that the boss would rage soon. She drank the mana potion Alburet had given her and tossed a heal onto Fluffball before going back to focus healing Gerald.

Frank stopped DPS to pool his mana as they got closer to the 1800/18000 mark. That was smart, Alburet had to admit, running out of mana in the burn phase would be stupid. The boss hit the 10% mark and began to glow red.

Gerald stopped attacking and focused solely on defense to try and stay up as long as he could. Alburet smirked, realizing that as the boss frenzied and attacked faster that meant Demonic Retribution was going off more often and stealing even more health from the boss.

Gerald lived through the fight, barely. The boss dropped with Gerald at only 10 health left to his name, just as Mary called that she was tapped out of mana. The rest of them sagged as the adrenaline rush left their bodies, letting out a ragged cheer at their success.

“Good work with the adds,” Gerald said as his health started to regen on its own since combat had ended. “Wow, what a rush there at the end. I tank for that feeling.”

Alburet chuckled, having known a few adrenaline junkies in his time and this had to be the safest way to get that feeling. “So we all get loot this time, right?”

Mary nodded as she touched the boss which sent a pop-up to each of them, “Yes, here’s the loot.”

Ring of the Mind

+2 intelligence

Alburet smiled at his pop up and touched the accept button on the panel causing a ring to appear in his hand. He slipped it on with a smile, looking at the others. Fluffball was holding up a new chain shirt with a pleased smile, Gerald was holding a new sword, Mary had a ring on her hand and DrFrank was putting on a necklace.

“Good job everyone,” Mary said proudly. “I really do want to thank you all for the flawless run here, well minus Rocksure.”

Chuckling Alburet replied, “Well yeah, if you discount him it was good.”

“Tell me why you risked me over the imp,” Fluffball asked as she stalked towards him her fur still red tinged.

“The caster had two hits left in him but his next spell would have killed Bob. Bob loses happiness if he dies and I need a happy pet for the bonuses. The caster wouldn't have been able to kill you, so I chose the way I did.” Alburet said calmly. “If it bothers you, then I’m sorry but that is what I thought at the time.”

Pursing her lips, Fluffball considered then nodded, “Fine. We still up for grinding outside?” Alburet lips twisted up in a devilish grin and Bob fell over laughing, while DrFrank broke into a chuckle. Fluffball went red and shook her head, “That isn't what I meant.”

“I know, but wow what a straight line,” Alburet said, bowing her to the door. “Let us sally forth.” he turned to the trio still in the room, “Thanks for the run guys. If you want DPS and I'm around just let me know. Anyone know how to friend someone here?”

Fluffball spoke from the door, “You need a Mindstone for that. We get one when we turn in the supply quest at the keep, I think.”

“Shall we go turn in the quest then come back?” Alburet asked.

“That’s a good idea,” Marysue said. “We can go back as a group to speed up the travel time in case mobs jump us outside.” Everyone agreed to the plan so they headed out of the room and out of the keep.

Alburet

Human Summoner

Level 8

Strength: 5

Agility: 13

Constitution: 20

Intelligence: 27

Wisdom: 33

Charisma: 20

Health: 600

Mana: 730

Spells:

Demon Skin-Rank 2

Demonic Retribution

Summon Least Imp

Fire Blast

Sap Strength

Demonic Haze

Abilities:

Personal Spells

Rewards

The trip back to the Stormguard fort was quick with only four mobs getting in the way before being killed quickly. DrFrank smirked to see Alburet running along with them instead of walking. Once they entered the gates of the Stormguard fort though Alburet stopped running, going back to his walking speed.

He got to the rest of the group as they finished turning in their goblin heads to the Sergeant, who was handing out the silver to them in reward. Alburet snapped a salute when the sergeant looked his way. “Sir, goblins killed sir. I was part of their unit for the most part.” He went into parade rest when the sergeant returned the salute.

Quest completed: Kill at least twenty goblins

Receive: 2 gold and increased rep with all Stormguard reputations

“Well done,” the sergeant replied with a smile before handing over the two gold. “Let me know if you kill any more goblins before you leave the area.”

“Will do,” Alburet replied, snapping another salute. He turned to find the others all staring at him, “What?”

“Why the fuck didn't you have to turn in any heads?” DrFrank snapped.

“Because I was polite, and acted like a respectable person by not running up and demanding things. The sergeant might also have given me a slightly different version as I went back into old habits of addressing a superior officer. I had to kill twenty goblins minimum for the quest I had.”

Marysue shook her head, “So we can get different quests from the same NPC? Just by how we ask? That’s a new take even by Mindblown's normal game standards.”

“They increased the number of AI's used in this game as well as the quality. They’re using their latest iteration of AI's which are supposed to be able to emulate emotion better.” Gerald said with a thoughtful expression. “Anyway, we have another quest to turn in,” he hitched a thumb at the Quartermaster.

The four all ran over to the Quartermaster while Alburet walked over with a smile. He waited for the others to receive their rewards before he saluted the quartermaster. “Sir, here are the supplies you requested.” Alburet dropped the ten supplies he had gotten onto the desk. “Also, here are the armbands I retrieved as requested.”

Quest completed: Capture at least five goblin supply caches

Receive: A Mindstone and a leather jerkin (armor 15)

Quest completed: Goblin armbands

Receive: 5 gold and increased rep with all Stormguard factions

You are now at Liked with all Stormguard factions

“Well done. Here are your rewards. If you come across any more supplies or armbands I will gladly take them from you.” the Quartermaster said before holding up a hand. “Also, I've had reports of some farmers freed from the goblin fort. As such I am authorized to give you all one piece of equipment from my list.”

Quest completed: Save the Slaves

Receive: Any one item from the Quartermasters stores

He turned a book around to the group, “Just touch the item you want and it will be yours.”

DrFrank grabbed the book skimming it quickly before selecting a ring with +2 intelligence. “I'll take this one, thanks,” he said with a chuckle and handing the book to Gerald.

Gerald, then Marysue followed finally by Fluffball all selected their rewards. Gerald took a mail coif, Marysue took a necklace of +2 wisdom, while Fluffball took a two-handed axe. Alburet finally picked up the book and went through the options while the others all used their Mindstones to friend each other.

Everything seemed to be an upgrade to what he had, but the box marked with just question marks caught his eye. “What's in the mystery box?”

The Quartermaster smirked, “If I knew it wouldn't be a mystery now would it? All I know is that when I touched the box it said the contents would be unique to the one who opened it. So I left it alone. Who knows what could be inside?”

Laughing, Alburet touched the box, claiming it, “Let's find out, shall we?” The box appeared on the desk and Alburet touched it, accepting that the contents would unique to him via pop-up. The box vanished and a set of dark red leather gloves appeared before him.

Alburet paused, his lips quirked up as he examined the gloves, “Well, guess they are meant for me after all.”

Demon Lord’s Gloves

Unique Scaling Item, Part of the Demon Lord set

Armor 8 to hands (up to 100 depending on level) stacks with Demon Skin

Strength 8 (up to 100 depending on level)

Intelligence 8 (up to 100 depending on level)

Indestructible

You may use any weapon regardless of Strength required

Becomes Soul Bound when equipped

Other parts of set:

Robe

Crown

Boots-Equipped

Pants

Belt

3 pieces bonus: ???

6 piece bonus: ???

Alburet put the gloves on to the disbelieving stares of the others, “So nice of you to leave me the box, guys.”

“What the fuck, a set item in a mystery box at this level?” DrFrank said in disbelief. “That is so fucking lame.”

“Kind of unique anyway,” Gerald mused, “I mean, who takes that gamble when there are clear upgrades to be had? Anyway, let's touch stones so we can contact each other. I want to head back out and into the dungeon for another round.” He tapped his Mindstone to Alburet's, both of them accepting the request to friend the other.

Marysue smiled as she exchanged names with Alburet, “Take care, and thanks for the interesting day.”

Alburet exchanged friends with DrFrank and Fluffball as well, then found himself without a group as Gerald removed the DPS as he and Mary headed for the exit, followed by DrFrank asking if he could do a full clear with them.

“So, I notice your boots match your gloves.” Fluffball said with a raised eyebrow. “How did you get the boots?”

Shaking his head, Alburet replied, “Long story. Short version of it was I traded an item to an NPC for them. Kind of odd to have two set items in the first few days, though.”

“Yeah, pretty rare I'm going to say. So we going to group up and kill some more goblins? I still have a few hours before I'm going to log off.” Fluffball asked as she sent a group request to him.

Accepting the request, Alburet smiled, “Sounds good to me. Let's hit the merchant outside to sell off junk first though.” Fluffball agreed and walked with him outside and over to the vendor.

“So you roleplay as well?” Fluffball asked as they walked.

“Well, I got time and I think it's fun to really try to immerse oneself into the game,” Alburet replied. “I notice you like to groom your ears.”

“It's an easy quirk to roleplay. Also it feels kind of good. The sensation I get is like the warm feeling you might get if a loved one strokes your hair.” Fluffball replied with a slight blush, “So it works out.”

“Interesting,” Alburet said with pursed lips in thought. “So maybe they’re working out how to adapt the system to reflect how to accept non normal stimuli. If it works maybe they’ll lift the same sex mandate their games have currently.”

“Oh, so you think the Lunari are a test run to allow cross gender characters?”

“Could be, after all it's not like you have those ears or tail in real life. That means that your brain is trying to figure out how to interpret the data the game gives it when they’re touched or groomed. At least that's my theory on it, anyway.”

“Huh, I didn't think of it that way. I hope you’re right because that would mean I’m helping to further an awesome goal.” Fluffball smiled brightly as she spoke, as if pleased with the idea.

Alburet came to a stop before the merchant and addressed the man, “Good day to you, merchant. I have some items I would like to be rid of, if you are interested in buying them.”

“Let's see what you have,” the merchant replied with a bored expression.

Alburet unloaded the rusty weapons and tattered leathers he had looted onto the table the man had next to the wagon. “This is all of it.”

The merchant went through the stuff, setting aside all the weapons. “I can buy everything but those. The smith across the way might buy them. For the rest of this stuff, say fifty silver?”

“Works. I’ll have some more later to sell you as well,” Alburet said, shaking hands with the merchant before accepting his coin and putting the weapons back in his bag.

Fluffball stepped forward and unloaded all her non weapon stuff for sale. “I also would like to sell you these items, sir. I heard what you said about the weapons so I have kept them.”

“Oh, an adventurer who listens to us, how novel.” The merchant chuckled, “For that I offer you sixty silver in trade.”

Her smile growing, Fluffball accepted with a shake of hands. “A pleasure doing business with you sir, we’ll be back in a few hours with more.”

“I shall look forward to it,” the merchant replied as he watched them walk over to the smith.

As they approached, Alburet noted the dwarf smith setting aside a finished sword. “Greetings sir smith, the merchant tells me you might be interested in buying the weapons we retrieved from the goblin fort?”

Looking up, the dwarf nodded, “Aye tha' I would. Lay them out and I will let ye know wha' they be worth.”

Alburet and Fluffball set their weapons out in separate piles, which the smith looked over. “I will give each of ye fifty silver for the entire lot.” Alburet nodded along with Fluffball, each of them accepting and taking the coin before informing the dwarf they would be back later with more. “I look forward to it,” the dwarf replied, watching them leave the keep.

“So Fluffball, may I just call you Fluff?” Alburet asked as they paused outside the main gates.

“I don't mind, but you told Gerald earlier not to call you Al. Why was that?” she asked as they started into a jog towards the goblin fort.

“I just don't like to shorten the name, but I will let you cut it down.” Alburet replied as they went around the people engaged in fighting.

Bob cackled, “So the women can call you Al, but not the guys?”

“He all but seems to disappear at times, doesn't he?” Fluffball asked, glancing back at Bob. “Then he speaks up to remind us that he’s there.”

“Yeah, but without him I would be way worse off as a Summoner. He has helped me time and time again when things have been going badly. I’ll put up with the comments for that kind of help.” Alburet said, then grinned evilly at Bob, “Unless he gets really bad.”

Bob just yawned as they jogged on, “Yeah, yeah, whatever.”

Fluffball shook her head, “I can just see an imp acting like this if they were real. The AI does an amazing job at lifelike NPCs.”

“Of course I am real,” Bob scoffed, “I'm just not two-souled like you two.”

Alburet was about to reply when he spotted a goblin coming right at them, “Company.” He slid to a stop, casting retribution on Fluffball. “You're the tank, Fluff.”

Fluffball got a red glow to her as she leapt at the Goblin Scavenger the two-handed sword he had given her arcing around to hit the mob. She let out a savage roar as the blow connected and the goblin seemed to pull back slightly from her. Bob and Alburet started peppering it with Fire Blasts as it did so.

The fight didn't last long and Fluffball took minor damage. “That was fun,” Fluffball said as they started moving towards the right corner of the fort that Alburet had used before. “At ninth level I got Intimidating Roar, it shakes the target making them fearful.”

“Useful, but what’s fearful really mean?”

“Good question. I have no idea really, but they do seem hesitant to try and attack me when the debuff is on them. Cool-down is a minute and it only lasts ten seconds. I’ll use it when appropriate normally. Any idea what you get next level?”

“I think the pamphlet said I get a Lesser Destroyer, which I hope is my tank minion.”

“Destroyers are the backbone of the Infernal army,” Bob interjected. “They excel at and thrive on being in the midst of combat.”

“Sounds like a tank minion to me,” Alburet grinned.

“They are slow, stupid and boring,” Bob said with a sigh. “They are only good for smacking things in the face while being smacked in the face.”

“Yeah, sounds like a tank minion alright,” Fluff nodded. “Once I hit ten I think I'm going to jump back to the capital and get my next ability. I might log for the night at that point.”

“Understandable. Here comes the next one.” Alburet said as the next Goblin Scavenger came running towards them.

They fell into a groove for the next hour, killing the mobs that came to them and occasionally pulling a loose one from further away. “It seems slower than I thought it would be,” Alburet said.

“We’re still in early access for the next day. Also, the monthly fee to play is kind of high, but then again so is a good VR rig. Still, it will keep the population low for a while. In a few hours this place should pick up as evening comes around. One of the reasons I like playing in the earlier part of the day.”

“Fair enough. So you going to be on tomorrow?”

“Yeah. If you’re on we can hook up again, unless you grind your way past me.” Fluffball said, getting ready as another goblin was coming to them.

“I'd love to hook up and grind with you,” Alburet said, intending the obvious double entendre.

Fluff blushed and turned away from him to hack at the goblin with extra fervor. Alburet wondered if he had taken it a step too far but focused on the job at hand. Just before the mob died the two-handed sword Fluff was using vanished in a shattering of blue sparkles. Bob's next fire ball killed the goblin thankfully, before it could do any damage to Fluff while she was unarmed.

As the mob dropped Alburet felt the rush of leveling as well as seeing the light around Fluffball. They congratulated each other, taking a moment to drop stat points in. Alburet checked his next spell, which was indeed Summon Lesser Destroyer. “Yeah new minion, woohoo,” he said smiling.

“Good, it means I won't feel bad for running off,” Fluffball said. “I think I'm going to call it for the day after I go train my next ability. Also good to know what a weapon breaking looks like.”

Alburet nodded, “Fluff, my last comment about grinding...”

“No. No, it's okay.” She said quickly cutting him off, “I'm just... Look, what I'm trying to say is we just met and...” Her skin under the fur was bright red.

“Ahh, poor little kitty wants it but is timid,” Bob laughed.

“Bob!” Alburet snapped, his face going hard. “Do not tease her like that, is that understood?” His voice was the hard steel he’d used when he had to back an inmate down on his old job.

Bob froze up before nodding once, turning and bowing to Alburet. “Yes, master.”

Fluffball looked from Alburet to Bob then back. Her voice was very soft, “Um thanks. I'll see you later okay?”

Turning away from glowering at Bob, he looked at Fluffball with trepidation. “I'm really sorry about that Fluff. I hope the rest of your night is good.” He held out his hand which Fluffball took, he turned it so the back of her hand was up and gently kissed the back of it. “Good evening m'lady Fluff.”

Fluffball stared at her hand even after he released it, her mouth open slightly and her eyes glazed. “Um, yeah. Night Al,” she pulled her Homestone from her bag in a daze and vanished.

“Ah. Good Summoner, bad imp,” Bob said. “I see you want to play the angles, eh?”

Alburet felt his face go blank again as he turned to the imp, “Bob. I like you as a minion and I think we work well together, but if you ever do that again I will be forced to be very, very unpleasant. Do you understand this simple warning?” His grey eyes sparked with untold wrath as he matched the gaze of the imp.

Bob took a step back, holding up his claws, “I understand, master.”

“Good. Now let's see about your bigger brother joining us.” Alburet said, dismissing the imp from his mind while he felt the anger boiling inside him still. He tried his best to get his emotions back under control, internally sighing over the fact he still had issues.

He opened the spell tab and looked over the spell. Summon Lesser Destroyer: Mana cost: 15% of total mana pool while minion is active. Duration: Until dismissed. The Lesser Destroyer will taunt enemies to it to help keep you safe. Alburet chuckled seeing the same phrase and motions to deal with the IRS to pick his minion and tapped the spell requirements for the actual summon, modifying them.

That done Alburet mimed opening a book and spoke the words to summon the IRS, “I summon the Infernal Retinue Society to aid me in my choosing of a minion.”

A glowing red pentagram appeared on the floor and began to blaze with hellish light. Appearing inside was the bipedal frog Bettzle who promptly put his glasses on. “Greetings, Summoner Alburet. I see it is time to bolster your ranks. You are looking for a Lesser Destroyer, correct?”

“Greetings, Bettzle. I am indeed trying to find the Lesser Destroyer that will be my helper.”

“Well, lucky for you we have a few to pick from. Your choice can never be changed, so pick wisely.” The toad gestured and four ID pictures with stats appeared before Alburet.

Alburet ignored all but the one with the highest loyalty and checked its stats. 40 Strength, 50 Constitution, 5 Dexterity, 3 Intelligence and Wisdom, and to finish it off 1 Charisma. The picture of the beast showed a very typical large, muscular red skinned demon with horns and tail. In other words, a very large imp minus wings. It held a shield and axe in its hands and wore leather pants only.

Alburet selected that Infernal, causing Bettzle to purse his lips, “Again taking the weakest but most loyal. You are most strange for a Summoner.”

“What can I say? Loyalty is where the action is really at,” Alburet replied.

“Well, good luck with that weakling as your shield,” Bettzle said with a smile before vanishing in a flash.

“Okay Bob, you ready to say hello to your big brother?”

Bob rolled his eyes, “The large and stupid Infernal.”

Alburet pointed his right index finger at the ground a few feet away, “Come to me, Tiny.”

With a flash and puff of smoke and the Lesser Destroyer appeared. It threw back its head in a roar and stretched. “My master calls me. I come to wreck vengeance in your name.” Its voice was deep and powerful, with a growling resonance to it.

“Welcome to the party. I am your master, Alburet, and this imp is called Bob. He is my loyal minion, as you will be.”

The destroyer bowed to Alburet, “Point me at your enemies so I might kill them in your name, master.”

“First I must bestow upon you a name. A name so fearsome and terrible it causes the foe to quake in fear.” Alburet said, keeping his voice even as he held back his laughter.

“Yes, master. What shall be the name our enemies learn to fear?”

“I shall call you Tiny the Fearsome,” Alburet said as he held back his laughter. Bob exploded in laughter, bending over to slap his knee.

“Tiny, you called him Tiny. Hahaha,” Bob gasped as he kept laughing.

“I call you Bob the Mighty, so why not him being Tiny the Fearsome?” Alburet replied, his own grin coming out.

Tiny seemed to ponder it for a moment before standing to his full seven foot height. “Tiny the Fearsome I shall be. Let me wreak havoc in your name, master Alburet.”

Alburet blinked, looking at the Lesser Destroyer who didn't seem to understand the joke. “Err, okay, yes. We are holding this ground and killing the goblins that come to us.”

Bob kept laughing while slipping to the ground, “Told you they’re as smart as a bunch of rocks. He doesn't understand and never will hahahahahahahahaha.”

Alburet shook his head, looking down at the imp rolling on the ground, “Okay Bob, that's enough. Settle down. The next goblin should be coming any second.” Turning to Tiny Alburet asked him an important question, “Tiny, how do you gain happiness?”

“Protecting my master and killing his foes. I become unhappy when I am not allowed to fulfill those roles.” Tiny said, his eyes beginning to glow red as he spotted the Goblin Scavenger coming at them.

“Okay. Tiny, he is the target,” Alburet began, pointing at the goblin, only to see Tiny rush forward the few feet and hack at the goblin with hate.

“How dare you threaten the master?! Die, you weak goblin!” Tiny roared as he engaged the goblin in combat.

“See? Only good for being a block,” Bob said, still chuckling as he got to his feet, before starting to cast his spell.

“At least it means I won't be the punching bag anymore,” Alburet said with a smile, knowing he wouldn't end up in as much pain any more.

For the next hour Alburet marveled in how well Tiny did his job before calling it time and heading back to the Stormguard fort. He needed to grab some food and drink, his Hungry and Thirsty debuffs were almost at the end of their duration, which would leave him with the Starving and Parched debuffs.

The guards on the gate nodded to him but eyed Tiny carefully. Tiny snorted at them as if he found them contemptible. “Silly humans are no match for Tiny the Fearsome,” Tiny said as he walked by.

“Tiny, they are friends. Do not insult those who aid us,” Alburet admonished his minion as he headed to the merchant. Tiny bowed his head and remained silent, accepting the order.

“Greetings again, sir,” Alburet said to the merchant. “My friend had to go but I’ve brought back more items for you to purchase.” He placed all the non-weapon drops onto the table.

“Very good. Hmm, not nearly as much as last time. I will give you twenty silver for the lot,” the merchant said.

“Good enough for me. I wonder, though, if you have anything to eat or drink that I might acquire from you?”

“I have the best jerky this side of Stormguard and a wine pouch filled with a decent wine. Twenty five copper for both.”

“Done. Take it from the coin you offered me. In fact, if you have another set of jerky and wine I’ll take them as well.”

“I have four such sets of food. Would you like them all?” the merchant asked with a grin.

“Deal,” Alburet shook hands with the merchant and put three sets of food and drink away along with the coin. “Pleasure doing business with you again.”

“Pleasure was all mine,” the merchant replied as Alburet went off to sell stuff to the blacksmith.

After selling the few weapon drops he had gotten, Alburet ducked into the keep to hand off the three extra supplies he had picked up. The Quartermaster thanked him, with assurances that his deeds would be known by others.

Alburet found a spot and sat down to eat with a sigh, glad to just relax for a bit. As he finished his food the Sergeant came over to him. “Private, did you need a place to sleep for the night?”

Alburet got to his feet and saluted the sergeant, “It would be much appreciated, sir. I was told by Captain Roberto to stay away from the capital for a couple of days.”

You are now Disliked by Gilden House.

Alburet blinked at the sudden reputation pop-up, but pushed it away since the Sergeant was still talking.

“Hmm, so the Captain of Training knows you. Very well, then. If you take the stairs behind my desk you will find the barracks. Take any bed that doesn't have gear in the foot locker. Consider this payment for the extra goblins you are killing.”

“Yes sir, thank you sir.” Alburet replied. “I will do so, but first I am going to head back out for a bit longer and slaughter some more of the green skinned bastards.”

“As you will. Just stay safe out there.” the sergeant went back to his desk just as another player to come running in to demanded a quest.

“Alright, guys. Break time is over. Let's head out again,” Alburet said, then paused. “Err… Do I need to feed you two?”

“Tiny feeds on the blood of his enemies,” Tiny said.

Bob rolled his eyes, “We don't eat anything from this plane. Just dismiss us when you’re done for the night and we will eat when we return to our plane. We can go days without needing to eat though, so do not worry.”

“Good to know,” Alburet said as he led them back out the gate. “Tiny, front and center. Do not attack any goblin engaged with another player. We are heading back to the corner we were at earlier.”

Tiny grunted and set off at a trot, followed by the other two. “Good thing you gave him explicit instructions or he would be stopping at every mob,” Bob said as he ran along with them in his normal skipping gait.

Alburet just chuckled as they engaged their first goblin. “I thought he might.”

They spent the next few hours killing any goblin that came in range. Alburet noticed the number of players starting to increase as evening came on. He called a halt to it without having hit level ten, but he knew he was close to it.

“Alright, back to the fort and once we are inside the walls you two will be dismissed for the rest of the night.” Alburet said and started to jog for the fort. The two minions followed along and vanished in puffs of smoke as soon as he passed the gates. “Well, at least they follow orders well.”

He sold off the excess gear and handed off supplies before heading up to the barracks. Once he found a bed, he dropped one piece of gear into the foot locker. A message came up telling him that anything he stored in the locker could only be retrieved by him. Smiling, he put both bags into of the locker along with his staff.

Turning, he found a young man in uniform buckling on a belt. “Excuse me, is there a bathing room here?” Alburet asked the man.

“Down the hall, fourth door on the right,” the private replied without looking over. “Remember to clean up after yourself or the sergeant will be pissed.”

“Will do, thanks,” Alburet said and followed the directions he had been given.

The bathing room was a large room filled with four granite tubs. A sink stood to one side along with a wood stove that was burning away. Taking some kettles stacked near the stove, Alburet filled them with water and placed them on the stove, then he partially filled a tub with cold water after having put the stopper into it. He added the hot water when it was ready before stripping down and climbing in. He used the bar of lye soap he found on the tub rim to scrub down before relaxing in the water.

As he was getting dressed after his bath the door opened and ten men came in laughing and carrying on. They froze at the sight of Alburet. One of them stepped forward with a frown. “What are you doing in here, Civvy?”

Sighing, Alburet stood up, “Leaving actually. After I look about the place a bit more I think I might retire a bit early tonight. Is that a problem, private?”

“Yeah. This is a military keep not a fracking inn,” the private said belligerently. “I think I should take you down to the Sarge so he can explain it to you.”

“The sergeant is well aware that I’m here. He offered me the barracks as a place to sleep for the night. Something about killing more goblins than any of the privates in the building. Now excuse me, but I will be leaving.” Alburet walked forward being forced to stop as none of the privates moved.

“I don't think so dumb nuts. First we’re gonna teach you a lesson for insulting us.” the private growled, reaching out to grab him.

Alburet sidestepped, taking the proffered arm and tossing the private into the nearest tub. “I think I should go without being taught anything. I will warn you that the sergeant and Captain Roberto at the capital both think highly of me.”

The others all stepped out of the way with dark looks and mutters. The first one clambered to his feet groggily. “Don't let him bluff you, guys. After we beat the shit out of him we’ll turn him over to the Sarge and say he started the fight.” The eyes of the other nine all glinted at the idea.

Alburet sighed and pointed behind the group, “Come to me, Tiny.”

The group paused to glance behind them as the smoke cleared, showing Tiny. “You called, master?”

“You’re a fracking Summoner?” one of the guys gasped and stepped well away from the others.

“Yes. Now, do you want to continue down this road or not?”

The guys near the door backed away from Tiny and Alburet, shaking their heads. “Oh come on guys, if we subdue him the demon leaves.” The first attacker said as he got out of the tub, clenching his fists.

“Tiny, make sure the others do not join in. This one is mine.” Alburet said as he turned back to the attacker. “I ask you again to stand down, private.”

The young man shook his head and stepped forward slowly, “I'm going to show you that we’re better than you, Summoner.”

Alburet waited, arms out before him, his hands flat as the man came forward. Alburet batted the first three strikes away, “This is not going to work out for you.”

“I'm just testing your defenses,” the private said before lunging forward with both hands, trying to grab Alburet.

Alburet went down and swept the grabbing arms up and away before turning and slamming a hand into the back of the private’s knee. As the private went to his knee Alburet grabbed him from behind and applied a choke.

“Aggression is not always the answer. The wise man learns when to back down. Are you wise?” Alburet said waiting for the private to go limp. Once no more resistance was forthcoming Alburet released the hold and stood back up. “Anyone else?”

The other nine looked from him to the private then back, shaking their heads.

“Good,” Alburet said. “Tiny, pick him up and follow me. We are going to see their superior about this incident.”

The other nine sighed and followed Tiny, who followed Alburet, out the door and down to the main room. The unconscious private was beginning to stir as they arrived at the Sergeant’s desk. He looked at the group with raised eyebrows.

“Sir,” Alburet saluted. “I am afraid I must report being attacked by this man in the bathing room. He addressed me as a Civvy and told me to get out. He failed to listen to me when I informed him that I was in the barracks on your invitation, sir. These nine witnessed the attack but did not interfere when I asked them to stay out of it.”

The sergeant looked at the other nine, who all nodded agreement with what Alburet had said. He then turned to the private who was getting to his feet from where Tiny had dropped him. “Private Jenkins, do you have anything to add?”

“Sir, he attacked me, sir. He summoned a demon and attacked me after intimidating the others.”

“I have a different story from Alburet and the others have agreed with his story. Do you wish to continue with that line Private Jenkins?”

Private Jenkins lowered his head, “No sir. I attacked him without provocation. I was in the wrong. I just let my anger at all the Civvies talking down to us out on him, or tried to.”

“Very well, you have kitchen duty for the next month during your usual off time. Maybe this will teach you not to act without thinking. The rest of you, not all civilians are what you expect. This goes double for the two-souled. Alburet here has been killing goblins all day. Take this into consideration the next time you see a civilian in the keep. If it bothers you that much, come to me first before you start a fight.”

A bunch of yes sirs followed before he dismissed them all. He turned to Alburet, who dismissed Tiny, “So how did you subdue Larry? He’s one of our better unarmed fighters here. He was trained by his father Leoric, who was trained by his father Leeroy.”

Alburet chuckled, “The same way I showed the captain. If you can spare a few minutes and a few men I’ll show you what I showed him.”

The rest of the night Alburet walked the guards of the keep through the same holds he’d showed the city guards. As the sergeant called a halt to it for the night he thanked Alburet.

“Thank you Alburet, for the informative night. If you’re staying around for another day maybe you can spar with us tomorrow.”

You are Liked by Sergeant Jasper.

Alburet nodded, “I’ll see what I can do, sir.”

Finally Alburet got back to the barracks and collapsed for the night, letting sleep wash over him. His dreams were of a smiling Victoria and a purring Fluffball.

Alburet

Human Summoner

Level 9

Strength: 14

Agility: 14

Constitution: 25

Intelligence: 36

Wisdom: 34

Charisma: 20

Health: 700

Mana: 790

Spells:

Demon Skin-Rank 2

Demonic Retribution

Summon Least Imp

Fire Blast

Sap Strength

Demonic Haze

Summon Lesser Destroyer

Abilities:

Personal Spells

Grinding Goblins

Alburet woke, stretching before he sat up to look around. All around him guards were dressing and chatting away amiably with a few giving him nods as they went by. Smiling at the camaraderie, he got to his feet to grab his gear from the footlocker. Sitting down he put on his boots and gloves which were his only real pieces of armor, as his Demon Skin did better than anything else he had. Once he was ready he shouldered his bag, took up his staff and made his way to the stairs.

Sergeant Jasper met him at the foot of the stairs, “Morning, Alburet. If you would like to break your fast with us we would welcome you at the table.”

“Sounds good to me, sir,” Alburet said, following the sergeant down a hall into a large dining room which already had a number of soldiers eating porridge with some fruit. He followed the sergeant's lead, taking a wooden bowl and filling it with the porridge before accepting a cup of tea from an older woman. Sitting across the table from Sergeant Jasper, Alburet sipped his tea and discovered it was an apple spiced tea. He took a sample of the porridge, smiling at the honey sweet taste. “Very good food and tea, sir.”

Jasper nodded as he dug into his own food with the speed of a professional solider. Once he finished the porridge he leaned back slightly and sipped at his tea. “So, are you off to slaughter more goblins today, or are you going to stick around and train the men some more?”

“Possibly a bit of both, though in what order will depend on if any of those I was with yesterday ask for aid today. I shall let you know once I myself know.”

“During the hours of daylight I shall be at my station manning the duty desk. If you come back after dark I will probably be in the training area out back, working on what you taught us last night.” Jasper stood up, gathering his empty bowl and mug. “Enjoy the meal and I wish you a pleasant day.”

Alburet, who had just finished his own meal, followed the sergeant, “You as well, sir.” He dropped his bowl and cup off in a tub of soapy water, following Jasper’s lead, then followed the man out back to the main room. He took a breath while he considered his options about what he wanted to do. He could go solo farm more goblins easily enough, he could head off to see about finding a more profitable area to farm, or he could stay and train the guards.

He did enjoy training the guards, it brought him back to the happier times he had before. Teaching defensive tactics had been a favorite of his when he worked. He cut off that thought as it would only loop back to his crime. Shrugging, he summoned Bob and Tiny to his side and was just about to head out when he noticed a message from Fluffball flashing away at him.

Message from Fluffball:

Alburet, I will be back out at the keep in half an hour at the most. If you’re willing to party up with me again, we can farm the courtyard if your tank minion is any good. If you’re willing I’ll meet you by the merchant in the courtyard of Stormguard fort.

Alburet tossed her a quick reply using the Mindstone, which sent text messages rather than using ‘telepathic’ communication. He wondered at that. Mindblown could easily have made the Mindstone use VOIP or something similar so players could actually talk to each other. Shrugging it off, he informed the guys that they would have company before he let Sergeant Jasper know that he was off to kill goblins for an undetermined amount of time. He waved to the Quartermaster on his way out, getting a friendly nod in return.

“Master,” Bob asked, “I notice you treat everyone the same, people of this world and other two-souled that is. Why is this?”

“Hard to explain really,” Alburet said. “Most of my kind think of those of this world as little more than paper dolls, here to serve them in furthering themselves. I find myself thinking of this place as a universe of its own. Everyone here has reacted or acted just like any person of my other world would near as I can tell, so it just seems right I should treat everyone equally.”

“Even us?” Bob asked, pointing at himself and Tiny. “You don’t order us about really, and you rarely demand we do anything even when I push at the bounds of good taste.”

“You are my companions, we will be together for a long time I think. As such, does it not behoove me to learn about you and find the best way to work with you? True, I could just gag you and order you from point A to point B. However, that wouldn’t garner the best results, now would it?”

“True,” Bob agreed, “but you only snapped at me once yesterday, and it wasn’t even about a comment I made about you.”

“I know. You need to understand, Bob, for most of the two-souled this world is a chance to be someone else. Here we can do things we would never do in our other world, by and large. Someone shy, for instance, might very well be a fierce Berserker here. I myself would have been something akin to a Defender in my other life, not a man who consorts with demons. Some do it to unshackle those parts of themselves they feel are constrained by the other world. Others do it to gain the confidence they lack normally.”

“So you think Fluffball is a shy and quiet person in her other soul?”

“Consider all that she said and did and think about it, Bob,” Alburet said with a smile. “She should be here soon and then we’ll be off to kill more goblins.”

Tiny grunted, “Good, I am bored.”

“Don’t worry. You’ll soon be busy enough. We’ll be killing much faster than yesterday, with only a few seconds between goblins. As long as we don’t run out of goblins.”

Tiny’s eyes glowed for a moment, “Praise be to the master.”

“Wow, he is big, isn’t he?” Fluffball said from behind Alburet who spun at her words, startled.

“Hey, Fluff. Everything good to go?”

“Yeah, I’m as ready as I can be. How long you on for?”

“I woke shortly before your message found me, so probably for hours and hours.” He sent her a party invite, which she accepted. “Let’s go kill us some goblins and loot their corpses.”

“You say the sweetest things to a girl,” Fluffball chuckled and groomed her ears.

“Alright boys,” Alburet said, “across the open ground like yesterday. We’ll kill everything not engaged in combat on the way. Tiny, I’ll be doing my best to keep Demonic Retribution on you all the time.” He broke into a jog, followed by the others.

The group ended up killing almost a dozen Scavengers before they made it to the goblin fort. They headed through the gate, hugging the wall to the front left corner. Tiny was grinning broadly as they pulled the first goblin, a Shieldbearer. When Alburet cast Sap Strength which made it drop the shield Tiny roared with laughter and hacked into it more viciously. Bob shook his head, sighing at how easily Tiny was amused, but otherwise had been really quiet since they’d left the keep.

They paused after the first kill and Alburet asked Fluffball about her latest talent. “What did you pick up at ten, Fluff?”

“Unshackled Rage, makes me immune to root or slow effects. I haven't met anything that roots or slows a player yet, but the other option was two-handed mastery and I’m hoping for a dual wield option still, so I left that one alone for now,” Fluff replied as Tiny roared at another goblin, taunting it to them. “He really likes to yell, doesn’t he?”

“Well he won’t be spinning poetry, unlike someone else who might,” Bob said with a sly grin.

Alburet rolled his eyes, “I thought you were biding your time for something. Also, it wasn’t poetry. It was Shakespeare, who was one of the better known playwrights of my world.” He stepped forward and reapplied Retribution to Tiny as he spoke.

Fluffball hacked into the latest goblin alongside Tiny, “Hamlet, Romeo and Juliet, Macbeth and many more.”

Bob shrugged, “You two-souled speak of things I know nothing about. All I know is you bolted when the master started a speech the other day.”

“Enough, Bob,” Alburet said softly and without force. “She didn’t want to hear it was all and I can’t blame her for that. That specific scene is a very moving bit where love is confessed. I never should have started to quote it to a woman I do not know. That was a mistake on my part, not hers. Hell, if the roles had been reversed I probably would have done the same.”

The rest of the fight was done without banter but once the goblin died and Fluffball had looted it she seemed hesitant. “It was a little shocking is all. I mean, I do love Shakespeare’s plays, but that scene from an unknown guy was a bit unnerving. I do think you’re a nice guy and I love the fact you can quote the plays. Just maybe not that one right now.”

Alburet bowed to her, “As the lady does request, so shall it be.”

Fluffball beamed at him before giving a curtsy in return, “M’lord is very kind, to acquiesce to my request.”

“I am kind of curious though as to what you do when not killing goblins here in Alpha World,” Alburet said as the goblin fell over dead. He looted and checked the pop-up that occurred with a smile before refreshing Tiny's buffs for the next pull.

Constantly allowing your destroyer to follow his heart has raised his happiness.

Tiny’s Happiness has reached Content.

Your minion receives a 25% boost to stats and health.

“You mean in real life?” Fluffball asked a little uncertainly. “What about you?”

“Nothing much really for the most part now. I don’t have to worry about food, paying a mortgage or anything like that. I used to work for a county sheriff office before the incident that forced me to leave the force. When I was last not in game, I had a full medical team checking my vitals.” Alburet said, skirting the truth while saying as much as he could truthfully. He had been unable to keep the undertone of bitterness from his voice though as he spoke of not being on the force any more.

“Oh,” Fluffball said, her eyes a little wide as she took in the information and leapt to attack the latest goblin. “So you’re disabled then? I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to dig up past wounds.”

“It’s okay. I’m trying my best to move past the incident.” He said, not correcting her then tried to deflect her even further afield. “What ‘bout you?”

“Oh, um, I do freelance artwork. Mostly digital but I also draw, paint and do freelance photography as well.” Fluffball turned a slightly deeper shade of red then the normal shade she had when attacking a foe.

“So you’re a creative mind, very nice. What has been the piece you’ve enjoyed creating the most?”

Fluffball’s next swing went well wide as he asked the question, before she coughed and launched herself back into the fight. She didn’t reply as she fought and Alburet wondered what the problem might be. When the goblin died Fluffball took her time looting the corpse as if trying to delay the inevitable.

Seeing her hesitation, Alburet gave her a way out, “I’m sorry, Fluff. I don’t know why the question is difficult for you but I withdraw it. For all I know it might give away who you are which is something I’m sure you’re working to avoid, considering the previous stalker.”

Fluffball glanced at him then away, the blush showing through the thin down fur that covered her. “No it’s not that it’s just…,” she bite her lip. “My most well received piece was a bit of fantasy art. It depicted a blonde elf woman riding the back of a unicorn with a horde of orcs chasing after her. She had on a pair of broken manacles but nothing else. The unicorn’s mane fig leafed her, so nothing actually showed.”

“Wow, giving the impression then that the elf maiden was a virgin as she was riding a unicorn. Possibly fleeing slavery and rape at the hands or the orcs.” Alburet said, nodding before buffing Tiny again for the next pull. “I would think that could be a cover for a fantasy novel or even a fantasy romance novel.”

Fluffball smiled, seeming a little relieved, “It was probably my best work to date.”

Alburet made a mental note that she hadn’t called it her favorite piece, but let it go for now. “So that’s your living then?”

Fluffball shook her head, “It’s a hobby that gives me some extra cash. I’d rather not go any further down this road for now.” She leapt at the goblin Tiny had just brought to them, eagerly slashing into it.

Alburet waited until that goblin died and was looted before he changed the topic to less chancy areas. As they continued to kill mobs they traded information about favorite foods, music groups and more, seeing what they had in common as they killed goblin after goblin. An hour Alburet noticed he had a new message.

Message from Marysue:

Gerald and myself are going to see about getting a group for another run through the goblin fort. We found that it was a little tougher when the Shieldbearers were able to keep their shields, so Gerald thought we should see if you would want to come along.

Alburet stopped Tiny from pulling the next mob while he replied to the message. He let Fluffball know about Marysue’s message and got her ready agreement to another dungeon run. He informed Marysue that he was currently in a group with Fluffball inside the fort killing mobs, but if they wanted to take both of them they would go.

Message from Gerald:

We’ll be there with another person in a few minutes. Be ready to drop group and accept my invite when we get there. Which corner are you farming?

Alburet sent off a quick reply before turning to the Fluffball and his minions. “They’ll be here shortly. Gerald asks we drop group so we can join his when he gets here. Bob, you know the drill from yesterday. Tiny, we will be meeting up with friends in a moment and heading into the fort. You are coming with, but you must not taunt the mobs unless I ask you to specifically. If you do otherwise, it will cause problems for me with the party leader.”

Tiny seemed a bit sulky, but nodded, “As you wish, master.”

“Don’t worry. During two of the boss fights there are adds that you’ll be in charge of picking up,” Alburet said.

“Right,” Tiny said, his teeth gleaming as he smiled.

“That’s gonna be about the best you can expect from him,” Bob said, shaking his head.

“Do we want to grab one more first?” Fluff asked.

“Sure, we can grab the two between us and the portal,” Alburet said with a laugh. “Tiny, grab the two between us and the fort’s main doors. We’ll be killing them just to the left of the portal.” He slapped buffs onto Tiny as Tiny ran forward yelling.

“He really does love to yell,” Fluff laughed as she followed after Tiny, trailed by Bob and Alburet.

The battle was longer than the others and Tiny took a bad beating but was still alive when both mobs died. As Tiny regained his health after combat, Alburet saw Gerald and Marysue coming through the main gates so he disbanded the group, waving to them.

Gerald, Marysue and the other DPS ran over to them as Gerald sent them invites to the group. “Everyone inside,” Gerald said once Fluff and Alburet accepted the invites.

Stepping through the portal, Gerald turned to Alburet, “Get rid of the destroyer please. He’ll taunt the mobs off me.”

“No, he won’t. He has been told not to,” Alburet said evenly. “He will add to how fast we can kill things, unless the other DPS is a melee type.”

“Call me Franz,” the unknown DPS said. “I’m an Elementalist, so I won’t be in the thick of the fight.”

“So Tiny can get around the ones you have aggroed and help add in more damage. Besides, in the two boss fights we’ll want him to help with the adds.” Alburet said.

“If he taunts once outside of the boss adds then he is out,” Gerald said firmly.

Alburet felt his anger start to rise and did his best to stomp it out, “Sure.”

“We only ran one more time after the first run,” Marysue said as they advanced to the first corner. “When the Shieldbearers have their shields up they take a lot less damage. That made each fight take longer. We even wiped on the two bosses that summon adds.”

“Alburet, you’re up,” Gerald said, his voice strained as if he wished Mary hadn’t said what she had.

Smiling broadly, Alburet nodded before turning to Tiny. “Tiny, attack the mob Gerald is attacking after he has hit it twice. Switch targets when he does as well. No taunting unless I tell you to. Got it?”

“As the master says,” Tiny rumbled, gripping his axe tighter.

As Alburet looked around the corner he caught a whisper from Marysue, “My goodness, that voice is frightening.”

“He’s just a lovable attack demon,” Fluffball replied softly with a giggle. “He didn’t let me take a single point of damage while we were farming.”

Alburet ignored the rest and pulled the first group by putting Sap Strength on the Shieldbearer. “Here they come,” he said as he ducked back well behind Gerald.

With the first group Alburet leveled to ten to the congratulations of the others. As he distributed his stat points, Gerald asked, “You don’t mind waiting on your ability until after the run, right?”

Alburet chuckled, “Not in the least actually. I doubt it would make a huge difference and it would take a while to make the trip, so I’ll wait. Shall we continue on?”

They cleared the floor of adds quickly. The mobs were dropping even faster than the previous day. They staged up next to the first boss as Gerald went through his description of the boss for the Franz. “When the adds come in, Tiny will be picking them up. All DPS switches to them and kills them first. He goes berserk at 10% life at which point Alburet, if you could, get Tiny to taunt off me at some point so I don’t die.”

“Hear that Tiny? You get to save Gerald at the end,” Alburet said.

“I will save squishy human,” Tiny replied.

“Anyway, are there any questions?” Gerald asked, a little peeved at being called squishy. When no one replied he turned to Alburet, “I’ll go once you get the buffs up.”

Alburet buffed Gerald who rushed in followed by the others. The fight didn’t take long and Tiny did his job perfectly, collecting each set of adds as they appeared. They did find out why Bob had told Marysue to not heal him the day before, though. When the first set of adds died Marysue had tossed a healing spell to Tiny, damaging him even more and causing him to roar in pain and spin around to find the one who had hurt him. Alburet got Tiny to attack the boss and shook his head at Marysue, who looked shocked but nodded in understanding. Tiny had just a sliver of health when the boss enraged, but Gerald was at full life since he hadn’t been getting pummeled by adds during the fight. Alburet called Tiny to him and away from the boss, not wanting the minion to get killed. The boss died shortly afterwards under the barrage of damage from the party.

“I’m sorry about that, I didn’t know it would hurt him.” Marysue said as she came over.

“I forgot all about Bob telling you not to heal him yesterday, so it’s partially my fault as well.” Alburet said.

Bob snickered, “It’s not like it did any real harm to him.”

Alburet shook his head, “What if we had forgotten about not healing you?” Bob looked away without answering, which prompted a chuckle from Alburet. “So healing spells don’t work for my minions obviously. Makes me hope I get a way to heal them soon.”

“Hey, the loot is a leather helm, +2 Constitution,” Gerald said to get Alburet and Marysue’s attention. “I got a good enough helm from yesterday. So who wants to greed the item?”

All four of the others opted to roll for it, using the pop-up to do so. Alburet found a set of ten sided dice in his hand, making him smile as he knelt down and rolled them as the others had already done. He laughed when his came up as a 1. The others laughed as well. Franz took the helm, his 87 the high roll. “Wow, talk about rolling low,” Alburet joked.

“Says the guy who got a unique set of gloves yesterday,” Gerald said, shaking his head. “I would think that would be enough luck for the first fifty levels.”

“Meh, I took a gamble and it paid off. We doing the Jailer next?” Alburet asked as they left the room.

“That is the plan. If your imp can free the one prisoner again we should be golden,” Gerald replied. “Luckily we had a Trapsmith with us on our second run and he was able to free the one slave. We didn’t get any extra rewards that time, but the DPS with us did. And it does make the fight easier.”

The group decimated the next few packs of trash in short order, pausing outside of the boss area for Gerald to explain the fight to Franz. “Okay Alburet, buff me and in we go.”

“Bob free the one prisoner at the start. Tiny no taunts on this fight.” Alburet said before buffing Gerald to kick the fight off.

The Jailer went down just as easily as before, but Tiny taunted the boss at 5% life giving Gerald the chance to get some life back. Gerald pursed his lips looking from Alburet to Tiny but not saying anything as he looted the boss.

“Tiny? Why did you taunt?” Alburet asked.

“Squishy human Gerald was close to not having enough life to survive, so I saved him. I am ready for your retribution for disobeying you,” Tiny said with stoic calm in the longest speech he’d ever made.

Alburet looked to Gerald, “Any issue with him taunting there?”

Gerald shook his head, “Not about helping make sure I survived, no. I thought they were supposed to obey you, though.”

“I have noticed that as long as they are Content on the happiness scale they do a little more to help out.” Alburet replied with a shrug before turning to Tiny, “As you saved Gerald I will not be punishing you, you did the right thing even if it did go against my order.”

Tiny bowed his head, “Thank you, master.”

Fluffball giggled but shook her head when Alburet raised a brow her way, “It's nothing.”

“The loot is a necklace with +2 Wisdom,” Gerald said holding it up.

Alburet and Franz both rolled to see who would get the necklace. Franz ended up with a 10 much to his dismay until he saw the 1 that Alburet got again. “Ha, dude your dice hate you,” Franz said as he took the necklace and put it on.

“I wonder if anyone sells better dice?” Alburet said out loud, half jokingly.

“Ha, yeah, dice with a +10 modifier,” Franz said, “we could call them crooked dice.” That got a chuckle out of the group as they considered the idea.

“No, ‘cause then the rogue type classes would have abilities like, ‘Once a day win any roll with a 100’, called loaded dice.” Alburet said, prompting more laughter.

“Guess you should have been a rogue then,” Franz said, “maybe then you could roll above a 1.”

With that as the last word the group went upstairs to the second floor. Alburet looked at the two bodyguard mobs and pursed his lips before smiling. “Hey Gerald, why don’t we split the group here? Tiny, Bob and Fluff on the one to the right. You, Franz and me on the one to the left. Since they have a linked enraged when one dies we might be able to whittle them down enough in tandem to defeat that mechanic.”

Gerald considered it and nodded, “Good idea. We’ll do it that way. You sure Tiny can hold up for the entire fight?”

“If it looks like his isn’t dropping first I’ll chip in on it. As long as his dies first it should be fine.” Once everyone was ready Alburet put Demonic Retribution on Tiny and Gerald. He could only give one of them Demonic Haze, so he gave it to Gerald. Once the buffs were out Gerald and Tiny rushed up the last few stairs to the two mobs.

Fluffball and Bob killed the mob on Tiny about twenty seconds before the one on Gerald died. “Well done,” Gerald said as they regained their health and mana. “Just the boss left.” He told Franz the mechanics before turning to Alburet. “This one was a bitch with the four casters at the end. We died twice on this boss on our second run. Do you think Tiny can hold up?”

Alburet nodded as his mind worked on the boss fight, “I’m sure he will be fine if we all focus kill the casters in order. If not, me and Fluff can tank a single one each like we did last time.”

Fluffball winced, “I was just getting used to not being pummeled, too.”

“I will not let them harm you,” Tiny told her in his gravelly voice.

Fluffball grinned up at the destroyer, “Ah, thanks big guy.”

“The master likes you, so…” Tiny began and Bob began to laugh.

“Enough,” Alburet said quickly, “let’s get buffed up.” Fluffball was a little pink but smiled a little noting Alburet’s own blush. Alburet didn’t look over at her though, and missed the smile as he tagged Gerald with his two short term buffs. “Okay, we’re ready,” Alburet said.

Gerald led them into the room as he rushed at the goblin. Alburet called out a warning as each poison vial was about to be tossed, which helped Franz and Marysue avoid the ones aimed at them. Tiny stood next to the door waiting to pick up the adds when they spawned. The first set Tiny picked up and held without issue. Alburet was able to renew Demonic Retribution on Tiny during that first phase.

The first set of adds died quickly, allowing the DPS to go back to the boss as Tiny stood beside the door waiting for more adds. Alburet continued to call out poison vials which let Gerald already be in motion when the boss tried to smash one behind Gerald. Gerald called out his thanks as he moved to tank the boss at a new angle.

The tricky transition came up at 50%, with adds coming in and the boss tossing a poison vial at the same time. It was here that the party learned the easy way of dealing with the adds. Alburet had shifted closer to the door as he was buffing Tiny again when the boss hit the 50% mark. Alburet dove out of the way as the vial broke right where he had been standing next to the door. Tiny stepped out of the way as well and was turning to pick up the adds.

As the adds rushed into the room they stepped into the poison cloud and began to cough and choke, their life dropping by the second. Tiny slammed one with his shield and slashed another with his axe, keeping them from moving through for another couple of seconds before he turned to the third add. By the time the two Tiny had hit left the poison cloud they were at 50% of their life. The DPS piled in quickly and killed them in short order as Alburet grinned like a madman.

“At 30% all DPS to the door. Marysue, you as well. We want that poison cloud there for the last set of adds, it fucked them up bad. Order of killing the four casters are the one on the far side from me, then closest to me, then the two who will be in the middle as they’ll take another second or two to clear the poison.” Alburet called out to the others.

They shifted around and were ready when the boss hit 30% and tossed his poison vial at the clump of them. All of them were able to vacate the area without taking damage, leaving the cloud directly in front of the doorway. Alburet laughed as his plan worked flawlessly as they dispersed into the room, away from the cloud. As he had predicted, the next set off adds had to step into the poison cloud and started to cough as their life drained away. Tiny did his best to keep the goblin casters in the cloud as the DPS focused the casters down quickly. The casters each only got a spell or two off before they all died.

Franz, Alburet and Bob stopped casting for a bit to regain some mana, waiting for the last 10%. Tiny joined Fluffball in DPSing the boss down during that time as Marysue dodged the 20% poison vial. At 12% the trio of casters started back up DPSing the boss and waited to see who was going to dodge the last vial as frenzy started. Alburet noted the boss turning towards him and was moving to avoid the last vial before it got to him.

During the frenzy phase Tiny taunted off Gerald at 5%, taking the brunt of the damage while Gerald got healed up some. Gerald taunted back at 2%, as Tiny was taking an absolute beating during that time. The boss died to a cheer from the group as they each checked their pop-up loot. Alburet smiled at the Reinforced Staff he received, which gave a +2 to Constitution and did 40 damage, which was better than the 35 his current staff did. He put it away wanting to use his old staff until it broke before using the new one.

“Good to know the poison can damage the adds,” Gerald chuckled. “That would have made the fight way easier yesterday.”

“Well now we know,” Marysue added, “fast thinking about the last set of adds, Alburet.”

“Once I knew it worked it seemed like the best idea,” Alburet shrugged. “I’m glad it worked, the boss could have easily tossed that vial at Gerald instead.”

Gerald nodded, “Yeah, but the odds were stacked by the door. I’m going to adopt that strategy as well as keeping the idea in mind for future boss fights. Well, we’re done in here. What are your plans, Alburet?”

“Going to farm goblins with Fluffball, unless she runs off on me.” Alburet said as they began to walk out of the dungeon. He noticed that the others all walked along with them, as if they’d forgotten to run since he was walking.

“No, I’m good for a bit yet,” Fluffball replied to Alburet. “Are you going to head off to learn your ability first?”

Grimacing, Alburet shook his head, “Nope. I was told by a captain in the guard to stay out of Stormguard for a couple of days. So it’s going to be at least another day before I go back.”

The others all looked at him weirdly. Marysue spoke up first, “That doesn’t make any sense. Why would an NPC guard captain tell you to stay out of Stormguard?”

“I kind of knocked out one of his guards when I was attacked. Did you know it’s illegal for a Summoner to have demons out inside the city walls?” He asked the question to lead them down a false path about why he’d been attacked.

“So you were attacked and then told to stay away?” Fluffball asked. “What the hell? That doesn’t make any sense. What happened to the guard?”

“He was escorted home and told to take the day off if I recall correctly,” Alburet said with a shrug as the group stepped out of the dungeon.

“You seem to have the oddest stuff happen to you,” Gerald said with a chuckle. “Oh well. We’ll probably be shifting zones tomorrow. If you end up in the same place maybe we can group again.”

“Sounds good.” He waved goodbye to Franz, Marysue and Gerald who went out the fort’s gate. Turning to Fluffball he sent her an invite and they took the front left corner again.

“So you going to stay here for the rest of your time today?” Fluffball asked.

“That’s the plan. I can get a bed to rest in at the fort. It gave me a rested bonus for a few hours when I woke up this morning. So, I’ll probably do that for tonight. Tomorrow morning I’ll duck into Stormguard to see my trainer and see about visiting an armorer to see if I can get any armor better than my buff.”

“So you play every day then?

“Right now it’s the best way for me to spend my days,” Alburet said with a strained smile.

“Oh, right,” Fluffball said, a little embarrassed. “Sorry. I forgot about you having medical issues.”

“It’s okay,” Alburet smiled falsely, a little upset that he was lying to such a nice person. Then again, if he told her the truth it would probably break the NDA that he’d signed. He probably should have asked about that, he sighed inwardly.

“So let’s kill us some more goblins,” Alburet said as he buffed Tiny for the pull.

The next few hours were pleasant as they pulled at a steady pace, chatting about trivial matters. Each of them reached level eleven before Fluffball mentioned she should be going. They headed back to the Stormguard fort to sell off junk, some of which Alburet had held onto for Fluffball as her bag had gotten full. After a round of selling off junk to the merchant and smith, they turned in supplies and armbands for extra coin and rep, as well.

“Oh nice, I just got to Liked with all Stormguard factions,” Fluffball said, bouncing slightly up and down.

“Well done,” Alburet replied, enjoying the view, even though he was glad she hadn't over endowed her avatar. He thought her small b-cup avatar fit the athletic, furry Lunari best. “I hope the rest of your day is pleasant, Fluff.”

Fluffball groomed an ear as she glanced at him then away, before grooming her other ear as she pulled her Homestone from her bag. “Um, would you be interested in company in a few days when I get back to the game again?” she asked, her voice carrying the hints of nervousness.

Alburet let a smile fill his face as he reached out and gently took her hand, turning the back of it up. “It would be my pleasure, Fluff. I'll try not to outpace you too badly before then.” He gently kissed the hand he was holding.

Fluff’s eyes were wide and her cheeks flushed as she nodded slightly. She swallowed, trying to get moisture into her suddenly dry mouth, “That… that sounds grand.” Her hand hovered in the air for a few seconds after Alburet released it before she realized and let it fall to her side. “See you then,” she said before she vanished.

“Ah, she likes you,” Bob smirked. “Setting up to get a piece of tail?”

Alburet burst out laughing, “Not really. I wouldn't turn her down, but she seems like the serious type and I am not in a place for that. Thank you for keeping the biting comments at a minimum today, Bob. Thank you for the exemplary work tanking, Tiny. You are both free to go.” Bob and Tiny vanished in puffs of smoke, leaving Alburet without companions for the first time since this morning.

“If you’re free in a few hours, I would be happy to spar with you.” Sergeant Jasper said from his desk.

“Sounds good. I’ll just go drop my stuff off in the barracks, if that’s okay?” Alburet waited for the sergeant’s approval before heading up to the barracks. He ate some jerky and drank some wine before heading back downstairs as the debuffs were getting close to the danger zone again.

He spent the next four hours sparring with the guards, before bathing and turning in for the night. As he snuggled into the cot his mind turned to what tomorrow might bring. His dreams were focused once again on Fluff's shyness and Victoria's enigmatic smile.

Alburet

Human Summoner

Level 11

Strength: 16

Agility: 16

Constitution: 25

Intelligence: 32

Wisdom: 41

Charisma: 25

Health: 800

Mana: 960

Spells:

Demon Skin-Rank 2

Demonic Retribution

Summon Least Imp

Fire Blast

Sap Strength

Demonic Haze

Summon Lesser Destroyer

Demonic Vitality

Abilities:

Personal Spells

1 Ability waiting to be trained

Shopping

Alburet woke with the sun just below the horizon to find all the guards awake and getting their gear on. He put on his gloves and boots, having slept in his clothes again, glad that they never seemed to pick up blood or dirt. He returned greetings to those who hailed him as he made his way down the stairs to find Sergeant Jasper waiting for him.

“Feel like breaking your fast with us again this morn?” Jasper asked.

“Be glad to,” Alburet replied, following the sergeant into the dining room.

After they polished off the food and were sipping the tea, Alburet advised the sergeant on his plans. “Looks like I’ll be moving on today, Sarge. Going to risk the trip into Stormguard to train and get some better equipment. Once I’ve gotten that all together I’m going to find a more challenging area to test my skills.”

“I got a message from Captain Roberto last night. He suggests you keep your head down if you do head back. It seems the House of Gilden is rather upset with you, for what you did to Private Wilber Gilden.”

“Yeah they Dislike me it seems. I’m sure they’ll forget about me in time,” Alburet replied. “I was going to ask your recommendations for where I should turn my attention for harder prey?”

“Hmm, alone I would suggest continuing south from here. To the south there are a number of orcs that have proven to be a thorn in the side of Stormguard for some time. The problem is, they are technically monsters which means like you two-souled they come back to life all the time. The rest of us have to hope that the gods will smile on us and let us have another chance. If you end up with the people you had with you before, then I would say east. There are a number of goblin encampments that could use a good going over, but they work as more unified teams.”

Alburet pondered the sergeant’s words as they both dropped off their dishes. “Sarge, does that mean that you only have a chance of coming back to life?”

“Correct. We don’t know why the gods made the world the way it is, but we normal folk can and do die final deaths. No one has figured out how or why it happens, only that it does. Monsters like the goblins and orcs continuously come back to plague the world. Luckily, they never seem to get organized enough to mount major attacks. They only attack isolated places like farms or maybe a really small village. If that ever changes then I would fear for the survival of those of us who aren’t immortal like you.”

“Definitely something to think about, sir. I want to thank you for the generosity you’ve showed me by letting me share space with your men.”

“It was the least I could do, considering you saved the lives of some of the farmers and helped reduce the goblin population even if only for a short time. Would you be willing to trade information, so I can contact you if I need a reminder on any of the techniques you have shown us?” Sergeant Jasper pulled out a Mindstone as he spoke.

Alburet blinked, slightly stunned at the idea of the NPCs being able to use Mindstones. He still pulled his out, touching it to the sergeant’s. He accepted the pop-up asking if he wanted to add Sergeant John Jasper to his contacts. “Something else learned. Can you also use the Homestones?”

“Of course. Did you think them limited only to the two-souled?”

“I wasn’t sure,” Alburet replied. “Well, I should be going. I look forward to hearing from you in the future, sir. If I’m in the area I’ll stop by and say hello.”

Jasper relieved the on duty sergeant, taking the seat at the desk. “Please do. In the meantime keep your head down and your nose clean.”

Alburet waved goodbye and activated his Homestone, which instantly teleported him to the graveyard outside the Dead Man Inn. “Nice, no bright lights or disorientation when using the Homestone,” Alburet said to himself as he walked towards the inn.

Inside the door he found the same maid on duty behind the bar. He approached with a smile in place, “Morning to you. Any idea if Stewart is about?”

“Mornin’ sir, iffin ya want to have a seat I will let him know ya here,” she replied. She pulled out a Mindstone and concentrated on it for a moment before returning it to a pocket.

Alburet nodded, dropping a silver onto the bar top, “Can I get a pot of tea and two cups as well, please?”

“Right ya are sir,” she scooped up the coin before turning to the kitchen door and yelling his order into the room. She turned back with a handful of copper as his change, “He will be with ya in a moment, sir.”

“Keep the change,” Alburet said with a pleasant smile. “I wasn’t able to leave a tip I was happy with a few days ago. This gesture will make me feel better on that count.”

The small smile she’d had in place since he walked in bloomed into a vibrant smile. “Much obliged sir, will ya be staying with us this eve?”

“Probably, but I won’t know until later,” Alburet replied as he turned towards the hallway which Stewart was coming from. Stewart nodded to him and motioned to a table that he walked towards.

“Looks like business,” Alburet said, getting to his feet. “Just bring the tea over when it’s ready, please.”

“Right, sir,” she replied, her full smile still in place as her eyes trailed after him.

Alburet took a seat across from Stewart, “Morning, Stewart. How have you been?”

Stewart yawned, “I’ve been worse. What can I do for you, Alburet?”

Alburet waited to reply as the maid arrived with a steaming teapot and two cups on a tray, setting it between them on the table. As she turned to walk away, her hip gently brushed Alburet. He glanced back to watch her walk away even as he felt his pulse quicken slightly, before shaking his head and turning back to Stewart. “Oh, yes. I wanted to see what I can learn from you now. Have some tea. I made sure there would be enough for both of us.”

Stewart nodded, pouring himself a cup before Alburet served himself. “If that little interaction with Stacia was enough to cause you to lose concentration, you are going to have some issues soon. That is another matter entirely, though. Yes, I can train you in a further ability.” Stewart sipped the apple spice tea when he finished speaking.

Taking a sip of his own tea, Alburet decided to rise to the bait. “Why would I have troubles later?”

“Your third minion is a succubus,” Stewart replied levelly.

“Yeah, I kind of knew that, but why will that give me issues?”

“They are demons of lust and mind magic. Even the most loyal of them push at their masters for ‘attention’.” Stewart said the last word with a stress to it.

Alburet drained the last of his first cup and poured another as he considered the implications. “So she’ll try to seduce me is what you’re saying?”

Stewart poured himself the last of the pot before replying, “Possibly, but most of them are much more direct than that. You will understand when you get to summon one.”

Alburet considered the information he was being given and shook his head. Life was going to get interesting real quick if that was the case. No reason to worry about it until it later, though. Still shaking his head, he pushed the thoughts aside while sipping his tea.

Once they’d finished the tea, the duo walked through the passage that led down to the training room. Stewart took his seat and nudged a book over to Alburet. “You can choose the ability you passed up last time or either of the two new ones available to you now. Just press your hand to the page you want.”

Alburet nodded, glancing at the options. The first was Infernal Fire, which increased fire damage by 10%. He skipped that for now to look at the two new ones. The first was Flame Weapon, which cost a flat 5% of his mana, much as the demons did, to keep active. It added 25% weapon damage as fire damage, so a sword that did base 100 damage would do 100 damage plus 25 fire damage counted as a single strike when being mitigated by armor. The other ability choice was a lot more complicated; Heavenly Summoner, which would completely change most of his spells and abilities.

Heavenly Summoner: All demon minions are replaced by angels. All spells changed to reflect your new affinity. If you choose this ability you will need to go to a different trainer to continue with your class choices. All spells of demonic nature will be changed to reflect your new angelic affinity. Fire Blast becomes Holy Bolt, Demon Skin becomes Angel’s Blessing, Demonic Retribution becomes Angelic Radiance. You will lose access to your current summoned minions and have to select new minions with the new trainer.

Alburet paused, taking in this twist he never saw coming. “I can get angels instead?”

Stewart grimaced in distaste, “Yes, you can join the other side. A lot of two-souled have taken that option, saying that their demons were not helping them. What they don’t take into account is how the angels demand you behave to keep them happy. Like to carouse or ask for payment to help others? If you do, then your angels will become very unhappy indeed.”

“Well, that pretty much makes my choice then. While Bob might be an annoying little shit at times, I like him. Guess that means I won’t be taking Heavenly Summoner anytime soon.” He touched the ability Flame Weapon and confirmed it, “There we go, choice made.”

“Unless you’ve raised your strength you won’t be able to get the raw damage at this level to really make use of that ability,” Stewart said with a shrug,

Alburet chuckled, “I’m going shopping next to pick up the best weapon I can afford, something like a heavy maul perhaps.”

Stewart looked puzzled, his brow furrowing, “Did you put points into strength?”

“Nope, just found a nifty set of gloves is all,” Alburet said, holding out a hand. “I can use any weapon regardless of strength now.”

Stewart, who had been leaning back in his chair, went over backwards before scrambling to his feet. “You have found the gloves and the boots? Where are you finding these pieces?”

“First set I got from Vladimir at the royal auction house for an old, old book. The gloves I got from a mystery box that was at the Stormguard fort as a bonus for rescuing some farmers who had been captured.”

“Wait, what do you mean you got them from a mystery box?” Stewart began but Alburet waved him off.

“What I said, the quartermaster had a box in his stores that he didn't know the contents of. Instead of taking the risk of opening the box himself he offered it up as an option for a reward. I took the box and found these beauties.”

“Interesting. You are indeed not following the same path of most other two-souled Summoners. So what are your plans exactly?”

“Going to go get a worthwhile weapon, hit up a shop for food and drink then probably head back out. Nothing else here in town to really keep me.”

Alburet said his goodbyes a moment later as Stewart had nothing to add. Using the portal, he found himself in the graveyard again and started walking towards Grimgar's Weaponry.

While he walked, he looked over his new spell, Demonic Vitality. Mana cost: 100. Duration: 1 minute. Restores 5 health every second. To use this spell touch your fist to the target while saying the words “Demonic Vitality.” Alburet paused to change the spell so that he touched his target with the extended pointer and pinky fingers of one hand with the others curled along with the words “Burning blood.”

As Alburet walked towards Grimgar’s he felt an itch begin between his shoulder blades, as if he were being watched. He spotted a bench just down the street and strolled over to it. He took a seat and rolled his head around as if stretching out his neck muscles. As he did, he narrowed his eyes to seem as if he had them closed and he took a look down both directions of the street. He didn’t see anything appearing out of the ordinary so he leaned back on the bench and arched his back, letting his vertebrae pop. Letting out a deep sigh he sat forward, hunching his shoulders and twisting his torso slightly to make sure he was flexible. As he got back to his feet he glanced both directions before again heading onward towards his destination.

He hadn’t spotted anything to explain why his hackles were up or the itch between his shoulders. The last time he had felt like this was five years ago when an inmate had tried to shank him while he had been responding to a medical call into medium security. That had been pretty ugly all told, between him being stabbed by his attacker and the ensuing fight before the other guards had gotten there. Nothing happened though as he made it to Grimgar’s and entered, the jingle of the bell above the door announcing his presence.

“Ah, back again are ye?” Grimgar said with a smile, “What can I do fer ye today?”

Alburet felt the tightness in his shoulder ease up some at Grimgar’s greeting. “I’ve come to get a better weapon. I’ve grown beyond the goblin fort, so it’s time to move on to my next hunting grounds.”

“Gud fer ye lad,” Grimgar chuckled. “Well, and how many points did ye allocate into strength?”

“Not a single one, but I can use anything you have, Grimgar. Show me the best damage weapon you have for five gold, please.”

“Aich tha’ be somethin’ ye can’t use. Me best weapon fer five gold would require at least a fifty strength. As a Summoner ye would be a right fool to have done tha’. Ye last had a five strength, which would leave ye with staves as ye best bet.”

Alburet held out his gloved hand, “Check the equipment then tell me that, Grimgar.”

Grimgar frowned but touched the glove, reading the status information. His eyes widened. “Bloody hell lad. I’ll be right back.” Grimgar went into the back, returning with a heavy maul which he set on the counter. “This be the best flat damage I have fer what ye asked. The Hardened Steel Maul, it does a flat two hundred damage. It has no other stats, which is what makes it so cheap.”

Hardened Steel Heavy Maul

200 Damage

400/400 Durability

Alburet dropped his five gold onto the counter and hefted the maul as if it were a toothpick. “I’ll take it. Do you have a way to attach it to my back that won’t interfere with my pack?”

Grimgar brought out a sling for the weapon that attached directly to the pack. “There ye go lad. Just do me a favor and if anyone asks were ye get ye stuff send them me way, righ’?”

“It would be a pleasure, Grimgar. You’ve treated me well both times now. I thank you and wish you a pleasant day. I need to go find some provisions for my trip next.”

“There be a provisioner two streets down from here,” Grimgar told Alburet.

They exchanged goodbyes and Alburet exited to the street. A pop up appeared as he left the shop.

You are now Liked by Grimgar Smith.

Clearing the pop-up away, he started walking the direction Grimgar had pointed him. A few minutes later he felt the same itch between his shoulders again. Checking the street as if looking for the right shop, Alburet couldn’t see anyone that might be watching him. Foot traffic was starting to pick up now that the day was really getting under way which made spotting a watcher even harder. He stayed wary all the way to the next shop, but the trip was uneventful.

“Welcome to Pablo’s Provisions. What kind of food are you looking for?” A very tanned individual stood behind a counter right next to the door. His features screamed Latin descent to Alburet, who nodded to him in greeting.

“What would you recommend for say, a week’s worth of food that needs to be able to keep for a month or longer?”

“Hard tack is the easy answer to that, but it tastes horrible. If you have the coin, the Elvish Waybread is a fantastic option as well as being tasty. Even the most foolhardy, besides dwarves, stay away from the Stonebread though. We have a pretty good selection of hard cheeses, dried fruit and jerky to help round things out as well. It really depends on how much you want to spend.”

Alburet nodded, “I am not averse to spending a gold on the right food and beverages for a week.”

Pablo grinned, “Well then, did you want to pick it out or did you want me to assemble a selection for you?”

“By all means do your best for me, please,” Alburet said with a small bow.

“Hah, a two-souled with manners,” Pablo chuckled as he came around the counter, pulling several packages from the shelves lining the shop. He stacked them on the counter, “Alright come and see what you’re buying.” Pablo pointed out the seven different cheeses and jerky to be paired together along with a few small bags of dried fruit. Alburet nodded at the selection. “I see you are happy with the food, which is good, so now let’s move onto the beverages.” Seven glass flasks were lined up on the counter. Each held a day’s worth of different types of tea. “Will these suffice?”

“Done,” Alburet dropped a gold onto the counter and packed the supplies into his satchel. “Many thanks to you, Pablo. Next time I need more I’ll be sure to come see you.”

Pablo thanked him for his business as Alburet left the shop. Alburet started walking back towards the Dead Man Inn, thinking lunch was a good idea before heading out into the wilds. As he walked the itch between his shoulder blades returned, stronger than it had been. The certainty that he was being stalked loomed over him. Alburet ducked into the next alley, sprinting for the end of it, side stepping out to hide against the wall next to the alley. He stood there controlling his breathing as he waited. No one appeared behind him, and after ten minutes he glanced down the alley to see it empty. The itch was still with him though the ominous feeling had abated somewhat. Stepping away from the wall he headed out in a fast walk towards the portal guild, which was closer than the inn.

Alburet hated the feeling of being watched and stalked, hated feeling like prey. He made it to the building and as soon as he entered the feeling of being watched and stalked vanished instantly. Stopping, he took a deep breath and straightened up. He hadn’t realized he’d been slightly hunched as he hurried here. He glanced around seeing others waiting in the lounge area watching him with smirks, as well as the receptionist looking at him with a smile.

The receptionist was the same one he’d met before. “Welcome back sir, where would you like to go today?”

“I was told about a goblin problem further east from the goblin fort. What would be the best destination for me to help thin out the goblins there?” He did his best to smile, but his nerves were still slightly wound up from his ordeal.

“The Stormguard fort isn’t a bad idea, the goblin encampments are a few hours past the goblin fort in that area. There was a village out there and we can still send you there, but that would place you firmly in contested territory with no friendly people around.” Her tone gave the impression that the second option was for the foolhardy.

“Thank you,” Alburet said. “I would like to go to the fort then. A few hours of walking are worth not being completely surrounded.”

“The fee is one gold if you are going alone, sir. If you join the group currently waiting they can get five silver each refunded and your price would be fifty silver.” She indicated a large man in chain as she spoke.

Alburet thanked her before strolling over to the lounge area, “Excuse me, please.” He addressed the large man the receptionist had pointed out, “I’m going to go off to the goblin area and the receptionist said you already have a group for that portal. If I join up with you, she would be refunding you each five silver.”

The large, black bearded man sneered at Alburet, “No thanks, we’re good. Five silver is nothing. We also don't need a useless caster with us.”

“Thanks for the consideration, fucking useless meat,” Alburet’s words were clipped and harsh.

The large man and three others all cut from the same over-muscled mold stood up together. “Stupid casters should know their place,” the large man growled in reply.

At that moment the portal master came hurrying over, “Gentlemen, we don’t condone fights here and your portal is ready. Please, follow me. Any conflicts started here will cause you to be banned from the premises for a day.”

Alburet glanced at the portal master then to the four men before stepping away. “I apologize, portal master. It wasn’t my intent to cause a scene.” Even with his rage bubbling Alburet did his best to be civil, bowing to the portal master.

The portal master nodded and ushered away the four fighters, who were openly sneering at Alburet as they trailed after the man. Alburet clenched his hands making his knuckles pop, his face hard as he watched them go. As they disappeared up the stairs, a small cough caught his attention. A very short, petite, black haired woman got his attention, “Oafs, am I right?”

Alburet felt his anger ebb. The woman before him embodied the word cute. Her hair was a short bob cut which framed her heart shaped face. He met her green eyes before replying, “Yes. I’m sorry if I caused you any inconvenience with that scene. I need to set up for a portal, if you will excuse me.”

The woman held up a hand, “You’re going to the east. I couldn’t help overhearing. Why not go with me to the ruined village? I was going to try and solo it but I would be happy to have another along.”

Alburet considered for a moment, taking in the black leathers and daggers the woman wore. “What flavor of rogue are you?”

She chuckled, “The leather and daggers, right? Assassin is my trade, to answer your question. What kind of caster are you that you use a heavy maul?”

Alburet's lips twitched into a small smile, “Summoner.”

Sucking in air through her teeth the woman winced, “A strength build Summoner? Oh, that has to be a rough road. You interested in joining me?”

At Alburet's nod she sent him an invite, letting him see her name, “Thank you for being so kind, Karen.”

“Let’s advise the receptionist that we’re grouped and get the discount, shall we Albert?” Karen said, walking to the desk.

Alburet winced, “It’s Al-Burr-Et, actually. Yes, let’s.”

Karen glanced back, her eyes sparkling, “Oh, so serious about your name I see. This might be fun.”

The receptionist looked up as they approached, “Can I help you?”

“We made a group for the destination I asked for earlier, can I get some cash back?” Karen asked politely but bluntly.

The receptionist nodded, “Of course. Your refund will be half a gold. Your fee is one and a half gold, sir.”

Alburet placed the amount on the desk, “What’s the cost for just one person, if I may ask?”

“Two golds,” the receptionist said as handed fifty silver to Karen. “There is your discount. You are the next group to go, if you will just give the portal mage a moment.”

Alburet nodded and set another gold on the counter, “For you. Both times I’ve been here you have been exemplary in your service. I will tip the mage as well, even though I know you pool and split them here.”

The receptionist’s smile went from a polite, business-like expression, to one more real that showed off a dimple. “My thanks, sir. If there is anything else we can do for you, please do not hesitate to ask.”

Alburet gave a small nod of his head before turning to see Karen watching him with crooked lips and a raised brow. “So you like the ladies, it seems,” Karen said with a chuckle. “I’ll have to keep that in mind if anything amazing drops while we hunt.”

Alburet snorted softly, “We shall see.” He motioned towards the waiting area, “Ladies first.”

Smirk becoming more pronounced, Karen turned towards the lounge, “I always thought that rule was so the guy could watch the woman’s ass as she walked in front of him.” She started walking with a sexy sway to her hips, “Am I right?”

Alburet laughed, “You very well may be right. I always say it though as I consider myself a gentleman.” He did let his eyes follow her, though, nodding in appreciation at the way the leather hugged her curves. She was one of the rare few who hadn’t gotten carried away at character creation it seemed. Alburet had already noted her small bust that was perfectly suited for her small frame, with her hips flaring just enough to give the impression of an hourglass figure without exaggerating it.

Just as she reached the seating area she glanced back, catching his eyes track up her back to her face. “Well, you didn’t wolf whistle, so I guess I can call you a gentleman for now.”

“A gentleman always notices when a lady is making the effort. It would have been rude of me not to take note of your charms when you obviously wanted me to.”

“Touché,” she replied. “I think I’m going to like working with you. So how are the angels treating you at level eleven?”

“Don’t know, didn’t take them,” Alburet remarked. “I’m good with my demons. You’ll probably love Bob.”

“You named one of your demons Bob?” The sheer incredulity in Karen's voice made Alburet chuckle.

“Yes. Bob the Mighty and Tiny the Fearsome are my current minions. I’ll summon them as soon as we portal.”

“Excuse me, your portal is ready. If you will follow me,” the same portal mage from earlier stood there waiting.

“I think this is going to be more fun than I had thought I was going to find today,” Karen said out loud before turning to the portal mage. “After you, Jeeves.”

The mage bowed slightly and lead them up the stairs. As they passed the receptionist she turned to them, “Good hunting to you, sir.”

Alburet tipped an imaginary hat to her with a smile as he went by. He saw the portal mage glance back with a raised brow. A moment later they were shown to a different door than the one he had used before. Inside was a rune, glowing blue. “Step into the rune and you are set to go,” the mage said, stepping to one side.

Karen stepped onto the rune and vanished. Alburet paused at the edge of the rune. “For you, sir. The receptionist already got the exact same from me.” Alburet handed over another gold, figuring higher levels would get him more anyway so might as well see if he could get the NPCs to like him quicker this way.

The mage accepted the coin with a smile. “Thank you for your generosity sir. Next time you come in ask for me by name, Rolland.”

“I’ll do my best to remember that, Rolland. Have a pleasant day.” Alburet again tipped an imaginary hat as he stepped onto the rune.

Ruined Village

He found himself in the middle of a burnt barroom, littered with broken furniture. “Charming place this,” he said as he looked for Karen.

“Everything okay? It took you a bit longer to show up.” Karen’s voice came from beside him where he could make out a faint shimmer.

“Stealth,” Alburet said, eyeing the shimmer. “I hadn’t seen how it worked until now. I was tipping the mage and saying goodbye, is all.” He noticed a blinking icon and opened it up.

You are now Liked by the Portal Guild

“Being nice to the NPC’s eh? Hmm, well I guess they are somewhat more lifelike here than in other games. Not sure just throwing money at them is the way to go, though. Anyway, summon the demons and let’s see what kind of trouble we can get into.” Karen said as she glided to the doorway still in stealth.

Alburet quickly summoned the two demons, “Morning you two. We’re going to kill some more goblins today. These should be stronger and tougher for us, but we have help. If you see a short, talky female don’t hurt her.”

“As if they could even hit me,” Karen’s voice said from over by the door.

Bob chuckled, “Another female, master? You surely do like the fairer sex. Does this one purr if you rub her ears?”

Rolling his eyes, Alburet didn’t reply, he just walked over to the doorway which was missing its door. He glanced out into a dirt street empty of everything but piles of burnt rubbish. All the buildings he could see were broken shells of homes or shops. Most either had no roof at all or only the barest fragments of one left. “Charming place. Bob, I found you a summer home.”

Tiny loomed behind Alburet, “Not enough fire. I don’t see anything to kill, either.”

Alburet shrugged his shoulders, “Fair enough.” He walked into the middle of the street to get a good look both ways. “I only see the ruins of a village and that’s it. You sure goblins are near here Karen?”

An arrow slammed into his right side, taking thirty health away. Stumbling back, Alburet looked the way the arrow had come from to see a goblin drawing back his bow for another attack as three other goblins came pouring out of the ruined house.

“Yup,” Karen said softly as she took off towards the house. “I’ll deal with the archer. Try to stay alive until I’m done.”

Tiny roared as he came out of the ruined inn, imposing himself between the goblins and Alburet and taking the next arrow to his chest. “I will protect the master,” Tiny growled, slashing his axe at the three goblins as they closed the distance.

Alburet tore the arrow from his side with a grunt before he cast Demon Skin on himself. He silently cursed himself for not having done it before he left the inn. Stepping up behind Tiny, who had the attention of the three goblins, he cast Retribution and Vitality onto Tiny. Bob started casting Fire Blast at the first target as a second arrow hit Tiny.

Tearing the maul from his back, Alburet invoked Flame Weapon with a thought and the head of the maul burst into flames. “Alright, let’s see how this does,” Alburet said, stepping around the goblins to hit the one that Tiny had aggro on. Noting the goblins all wore leather armor with chain shirts and steel caps while wielding swords, Alburet decided to go for a head shot anyway hoping the base damage was high enough to still get a critical from the blow. As the maul connected with the goblin’s skull Alburet chuckled to see the goblin wobble. Glancing at the combat text he noted the 460 damage caused by the critical. Checking the goblin’s health he found the level fourteen Goblin Searcher had 634/1200 health.

The goblin spun on Alburet, as he had easily outstripped Tiny’s aggro with the critical. The maul was awkward for Alburet though, so he wasn’t able to deflect the incoming slash from the goblin and took another 22 damage. “Sorry Tiny, didn’t mean to grab him,” Alburet hissed through the pain.

Tiny roared again, using his taunt to make the goblin turn to face him. “Be careful master,” Tiny said, trading blows with the three attacking goblins.

A scream and thud made Alburet glance behind him to see the goblin who had been shooting at them lying in the street with Karen on its back, her daggers buried between its shoulder blades. He glanced at Karen’s life, showing she was only slightly injured then at the Goblin Searcher she was fighting which had 698/1200 health left. “Bob, help Karen with her goblin then help us out,” Alburet called out before swinging again on the goblin before him.

The next Fire Blast went sailing down the street out of Alburet’s view as Bob complied. “Oh, she might be small but she is fierce. I like her,” Bob said.

Tiny roared again, his health dropping to half as the first goblin fell. He spun to the next goblin, able now to use his shield a bit more to help mitigate the damage from the goblins. Alburet reached out, reapplying Vitality on Tiny before following it up with Haze for the constitution bonus to give Tiny a bit more health. Alburet brought his maul up and around, going for another skull shot but the goblin shifted to the side, causing the strike to hit on the shoulder. It still stripped more than 200 health away from the goblin, which was a hell of a lot more than anyone else his level should be doing he was sure.

The second one dropped a few seconds later and as he turned his attention to the last one Bob started casting Fire Blast at it. Karen appeared next to him and dug in with her daggers. The last goblin didn’t last long under the concentrated onslaught. Tiny survived thanks to the two rounds of Demonic Vitality Alburet had put on him.

“As I was going to say before you traipsed off into the street, the goblins here normally run in packs.” Karen said as her health regenerated now that combat was over. “We really should have died there, but Tiny did an admirable job of holding them at bay. Thanks for sending Bob to help me kill the one I Ambushed, too.”

“Well, it worked out. I’ll be a bit more cautious from here on. I have to ask, was diving out the window with the goblin planned?” Alburet asked as they looted the corpses.

“No, one of my daggers got snagged as he fell out the window. At that point it was let go of my dagger or ride him down. I didn’t want to lose one of my weapons so I did what I had to do.”

Bob snickered, “So you like to ride, but not goblins out of windows?”

Karen’s lips twisted, “Ick, goblin riding is vile. Take it from me, I just experienced it. Now if Alburet here wants a ride, I might be able to spare some time.” As she said it she twirled her daggers around her fingers before sheathing them.

Shaking his head, Alburet replied with a smirk of his own, “I've seen what happens to those you ride. With that in mind, I’m going to have to pass.”

“Aww, is the poor demon lover afraid of little me?”

Bob cackled, “Oh yes, I like this one much more than the last one.”

Sighing Alburet turned to Tiny who was at full health, “You did well, Tiny. What do you think, should we just walk down the street?”

“I will follow where you lead master,” was Tiny’s reply but his eyes seemed to blaze with eagerness.

“I could scout the village real fast and see what we have nearby,” Karen said as she activated her stealth and shimmered away. “Or you can be the bait again. I don’t mind and I might even nibble you myself eventually.”

“You are feisty as hell, you know that.” Alburet said as he motioned her on, “Go find the prey. We’ll wait here for you.”

Bob snickered, “I think she’s winning.”

A soft chuckle came to Alburet’s ears as Karen moved off, “Be right back. Don’t go running off on me.”

A few seconds later Alburet let out a sigh, “She can’t be real. I mean, what kind of woman is that bold and aggressive?”

“The best kind?” Bob replied.

Alburet’s mouth opened and a finger came up but he paused, considered, then dropped the hand and closed his mouth for a moment. “Okay, point. If things were different I would totally see how much of that is an act.”

“Something stopping you from finding out while you are here?” Bob asked, a little puzzled.

“My other life is very complicated, no relationship will work for me there.”

“What does that have to do with this world?”

Alburet considered the question seriously for a time, “I don’t know, actually. I hadn’t considered maybe just trying a relationship that only existed here. Moot point I’m going to say though, I doubt Karen is really interested. I would go so far as to speculate that she’s as ballsy as she is as a front to keep guys off kilter enough that they don’t try anything.”

“Oh, you think so?” the words were breathed like soft silk in his ear as a hand gently rubbed his back.

Instinct took over. Alburet took a step forward, pivoting as his hand lashed out catching her wrist. He yanked her off balance as he completed his spin towards her, his other arm coming up to wrap around her. He was a little surprised as he was starting to apply the hold when she dropped and shifted her weight, applying pressure against his thumb to free her arm. Neither of them was entirely successful. As she dropped her weight to break the hold Alburet dropped his weight down on top of her, so even though her arm came free he ended up on top of her with his weight pinning her down.

They both froze for a second, Karen visible now as combat had broken her stealth. “Err, sorry about that, it was instinct,” Alburet said, going a touch pink as he delicately eased himself up and off of her.

“I can honestly say I wasn’t expecting you to do that,” Karen said staying on the ground for a second as he took a step away. “I was just trying to play with you and all of a sudden you’re going for a hold on me. I’m impressed.” She did a kip-up to her feet, her customary smirk back in place. “Where did you train?”

“I used to be affiliated with law enforcement. I also took classes in various dojos in the closest city to the small town I lived in. What about you? That was a very good break, well, up until I dropped on you.”

“I really didn’t expect that. As for my training, I teach in the dojo closest to my house. It’s a mix of a few different schools so I have an eclectic mix of skills.”

“So, what all did you overhear before we had a sudden sparring match?”

“That you had never considered just a VR relationship, you weren’t sure if I was serious in my offer to play with you later and you think I used a façade to keep the boys away.” She turned to face him, looking him up and down. “I will say, you are a bit rough around the edges. I see you didn’t go for the Hollywood glamour like the pretty boys do, which is in your favor, as I like rugged men. While I’m not looking for any relationship, I would not turn down a tumble or two with you. Also, this is how I always am, in game and out and yes, it does scare away the timid which helps cut down on a lot of bullshit. The others I would rather not deal with, well, let’s just say the two men who ever tried to force the issue found out just how well trained I am.” She stopped and met his eyes challengingly, “So now what do you have to say?”

Alburet felt his pulse quicken slightly, “Honestly, I’m a little afraid and very intrigued. I wouldn’t turn down the opportunity for a roll on the mat with you, in any of the ways we could mean that. I would add that the last five years or more have been very, very slow in the intimacy area for me, so I would probably disappoint you.”

Karen’s eyes sparkled, “Oh, putting the ball in my court are you? Currently we are in monster infested territory and this is not helping us with why we came here. Let me put a bookmark in this for now and we can talk later about it, right?”

Closing his eyes, Alburet swallowed and took a few deep breaths to calm his mind and body. When he opened them again he felt centered and ready to go, “As the lady wishes.”

“And in control of yourself that fast. You really are pushing my buttons now. But I’m the one who said we should hold on this, so,” she coughed once, “there’s another set of mobs just down the street from us. Two with swords, one with a bow. We should be able to take them easily if you let me get into position. Once I’m ready I’ll message you and we can kick this fight off,” she dragged out her Mindstone. “What do you say?”

Tapping his Mindstone to hers he grinned, “Let’s go play, Mynx.”

A full throated laugh came from her as she stealthed, “Ha. It’s on now.”

Alburet watched the shimmer that was Karen go gliding away down the street. He lost her a few buildings away and looked at his mini-map, noting her enter a building six down from where he stood. “Six buildings down on the right,” Alburet said as he waited for her signal.

“I’m ready,” Tiny rumbled.

“More ready than master is for the Assassin, anyway,” Bob snickered.

Rolling his eyes as he shook his head, Alburet didn’t reply to the obvious bait. “Okay. Let’s start walking but don’t initiate combat until I say, Tiny,” Alburet said as he began to stroll down the street. When they reached the second building the message icon pop-up appeared. He checked it to find only two words, ‘I’m ready.’ Smiling, he cast Vitality and Retribution on Tiny. “You’re up, Tiny,” Alburet said once he finished casting.

With a loud roar Tiny went running down the street to the indicated house. As they reached the front of it two goblins with swords came out, pausing as they saw Tiny. Tiny didn’t give them any time to reconsider and rushed at them. His axe hacked into the one on the right as his shield bashed into the one on the left.

“Bob, focus the archer if he shows up in a window,” Alburet said as he went to the right, waiting for Tiny to land another couple of blows before he could start damaging the mob. As he waited one of Bob’s Fire Blasts smacked into the mob he was waiting to damage. When the goblin had lost a quarter of its health Alburet drew the maul up then down sharply, missing the head but solidly connecting with the shoulder. He had been right to wait as this time he didn’t pull aggro from Tiny, allowing him to swing again. This time the goblin stepped back into the building to avoid the hammer, causing Alburet to miss. “Oh, they learn. That’s going to make this harder.”

“Should I follow him?” Tiny asked, bashing his shield into the other goblin again.

“No, he doesn’t have much left,” Alburet replied, “I’ll go get him. You and Bob finish off the one out here.”

Tiny shoved the other one clear of the doorway, allowing Alburet to go into the house. A sword cut into his shoulder from beside the door as he entered the room. Hissing in pain Alburet lashed out with the maul, missing the goblin who lunged backwards to avoid it.

Alburet took advantage of the goblin’s pause and healed himself. He flexed his hand, extending just his pointer and pinking fingers before touching his chest as he said, “Burning blood.” The Demonic Vitality spell began to heal him as the goblin came forward again slowly. Alburet brought the maul up, ready to attack again. “If you drop the sword you might make it out of this alive,” Alburet said.

The goblin sneered and faked a lunge at Alburet. Alburet started to swing the maul, shifting his hands on the handle. As he had thought, the goblin had paused in its lunge and as the maul came down the goblin came in behind it. The sword creased his side, making him cuss, but Alburet had been prepared and now brought the maul up and across. The goblin was a touch slow backing up this time, catching the maul in the ribs and being tossed back a few feet.

“Oh well. Guess we do it the hard way,” Alburet sighed in relief as the slow healing spell helped cut the pain.

The goblin seemed very wary as it edged about the room trying to find an angle it liked. Suddenly it yelled in pain and spun around, presenting its back to Alburet. Taking the opportunity, he stepped forward and smashed the maul into its head, killing it. As it fell Alburet saw a bloody but grinning Karen standing there.

“Seemed like you could use a hand,” she chuckled.

“Well, I won’t say no to you lending me a hand. But let me return the favor,” He flexed his hand making the sign of the horns with his left as he reached out and tapped her shoulder, “Burning blood.”

Karen frowned and stepped back as the words left his mouth. She opened her mouth in anger but paused as she became aware of the spell’s effect. Suddenly a laugh came from her, “Oh, a heal over time. I thought you’d put a damage over time on me with that spell. Why the hell does your heal make you say burning blood?”

“We killed it,” Tiny rumbled as he eclipsed the doorway.

“Good job,” Alburet called to Tiny before turning back to Karen. “My first ability was the ability to change the motions and words of my spells. Now I throw the metal horns and say ‘burning blood’, instead of the standard way they wanted me to cast the spell. No issues with the archer?”

“No, Assassins get a stun ability that lasts three seconds, so if you’re good like I am you can normally take over half the life off a mob before the stun ends. Once it died I came down and found you playing with this one. I figured I might as well jump in.”

“Nice. Let’s loot and keep on rolling, shall we?” Alburet asked as he knelt to loot the goblin at his feet.

They spent the next four hours going from goblin hiding hole to goblin hiding hole, killing each group they found. Karen eventually called a halt, “My bag is full and we haven’t found the mob I was hoping to find.”

“I still got plenty of room if you trust me to hold onto your loot,” Alburet said. “So we can keep going for a bit longer if you want, no need to rack up more cost to come back out here just to empty your bag.”

Karen eyed him, her lips pursed in speculation, “What will it cost me to use you as a pack mule and just how much room do you have left?”

Alburet scratched his head, pursing his own lips in imitation of her. “Hmm. I’ve got room enough for easily as much again as we’ve already looted. As for the cost, how about a rain check on a real sparring match one day soon? I’m really curious to see what you can do.”

Eyes glittering with laughter, Karen nodded, “Oh, you poor soul. I accept the terms and I apologize in advance for your bruises, both physical and emotional after I’ve whooped you good.”

Laughing, Alburet shook his head, “I won’t go down easy.”

With a wink, Karen vanished, “But I might if you can beat me.”

Bob began to laugh hard, “Yes, yes, yes! I like her.”

Shaking his head with a grin, Alburet held up his hands, “I yield this round, Karen.”

Bob kept snickering as they went off to the next group. After another two hours, Alburet’s bag was nearly full so he called a halt, “I only have a few spots left and I do need to grab some food. The debuffs are going to hit me soon. Shall we call it for now and head back to Stormguard? We should have a decent profit with all the loot.”

“We can do that. I just wish the damned messenger had spawned for us,” Karen said as she pulled her Homestone out.

“What messenger?”

“There’s a Goblin Messenger that patrols into this village from further east where the goblins have their towns. He drops a scroll that starts a quest chain that will eventually spawn a rare mob. That rare has the chance to drop a few items I’m interested in. Sadly, it wasn’t meant to be today,” Karen finished with a shrug.

“I’m game for coming back after we sell off and grab a bite if you are,” Alburet replied.

Karen considered it then shrugged, “Fuck it. I don’t have a class tomorrow. Okay, let’s go sell then I’ll jump out to go grab some food before we head back here. That work for you?”

Alburet pulled his Homestone out, “Works. I also happen to know a weapon vendor who will be happy to buy from us. Do you know where the Dead Man Inn is?”

Karen shook her head, “I’ll find you once we’re both in Stormguard. Just head to the weapon vendor and wait for me there.”

“Agreed,” Alburet said before turning to Bob and Tiny. “Okay boys, break time. I’ll call you as soon as we get out of Stormguard.” Both demons said goodbye before vanishing into puffs of smoke, by the time they were gone Karen was gone as well.

When he appeared in the graveyard he started walking to Grimgar’s right away. He pulled out his map, looking it over to find the blue dot with Karen's name above it across the city from him. She appeared to be coming his way. He made it to Grimgar’s, glad that this time he didn’t feel like he was being watched. The bell jangled announcing his arrival which brought Grimgar out from the back.

“Back so soon lad?”

“Got a lot of stuff to sell, Grimgar. Also, which shop would you recommend for selling armor to?”

“Depends on the stuff ta sell. Leather ye could use Tanned Hides just down the street from me. The Elven lass there will give ye a decent deal if ye use me name. If ye got chain then Strong Links a few doors down from Tanned Hides would be the way ta go. Why don’t ye show me the wares ye have fer sale.”

“Waiting for my erstwhile compatriot to get here. Some of what I’m carrying belongs to her and I would rather make sure she doesn’t think I’m scamming her.”

Grimgar chuckled, “Aye, a lass in a bad mood can be a right handful and nay in the gud way eh?”

Alburet shook his head and checked his map, noting that Karen was getting closer. “She’ll be here shortly. When she gets here you’ll understand just how right your words are.”

A few minutes later Karen walked into the shop, looking from Alburet to Grimgar. Grimgar started to chuckle. “What’s so funny?” Karen asked raising a single eyebrow.

“I called ye a handful a few minutes ago and now that I see ye I think I may have overestimated,” Grimgar laughed again.

Karen smiled politely as she crossed the floor to the counter, “Oh, you think so? How about you come around here and find out just how much of a handful I can be?” She batted her lashes at him, “If you can pin me down I’ll take half as much as I should on what I am selling. If I can stay unpinned for two minutes, you give me twenty five percent more.”

Grimgar chuckled, looking at the slim slip of a woman before him then over to Alburet who was very carefully keeping his face blank. “Ah, I smell a trap here suren as gas in a mine means death. How aboot I apologize fer me words and we get down ta business? I apologize fer me comments about ye, miss.”

A throaty laugh came from Karen, “Perceptive, aren’t you? Too bad you backed out, I could have used the extra coin. You good Alburet?”

Alburet stepped over to the counter and opened up his pack and satchel, pulling out the weapons and laying them out, “Sure am.” The two of them dropped all the weapons they’d picked up on the counter to Grimgar’s approving whistle.

“Now tha’ be a sight te behold,” Grimgar said as he began to sort through the loot. It took him some time before he finally nodded, “Aich, tha’ be a pretty penny. I’ll give ye each five gold fur the lot of it.”

Karen looked at Alburet with a small shrug to indicate she was fine with it. “We’ll take it, Grimgar. Maybe you have a dagger or two that she would be interested in as partial trade?”

“Aye, tha’ I might,” Grimgar nodded, turning to Karen who stopped him with an upraised palm.

“Actually, I’m good with what I have for now. I’ll stop back when I need a new blade later, though.”

“Fair enough,” Grimgar said as he handed them each five gold. “Well then, now I get to cart this lot into the back. I hope ye have a pleasant night.”

The pair said their goodbyes as they left the shop and Alburet pointed down the street, “Tanned Hides and Strong Links down that way are who Grimgar suggested we sell the leather and chain to.”

“Works for me,” Karen said, starting off the way he pointed letting her hips sway slightly. “This way, right?”

“Yeah, that sure looks like the way to me,” Alburet said in admiration of the view he had. She looked back over her shoulder at him, “Ladies first, after all.”

Karen winked at him, “Of course.”

They quickly sold off the rest of their loot to Smoothskin and Strongarm respectively at the two shops. Alburet turned to Karen as they exited the last shop. “So, say meet back up at the portal guild in an hour to continue our slaughter of the goblins?”

“Works for me,” Karen said. “An hour means I can grab a bite to eat and take a quick shower as well.”

Alburet blinked as the thought of Karen in the shower popped into his head. She smirked at him knowingly as he cleared his throat, “Sounds good.”

“Oh, more than good. I have a very special shower head that helps massage the muscles. It’s so useful after a long day of rolling on the mat, and in other ways as well.” She watched him blush just slightly, “On that note, I’ll see you soon, right?” She vanished with an echoing laugh.

Taking a deep breath, Alburet started walking towards the Dead Man Inn to grab some food. “I swear she can’t be real,” he muttered to himself as he walked. He reached the inn a short time later to find most of the tables filled. He found an empty seat at the bar and grabbed it. As soon as he sat the bartender came over asking what he wanted. “Whatever food is ready to eat and a mug of dark ale, please.” He dropped a silver onto the counter.

The bartender took it and made it disappear before he stepped away, returning with a full mug along with the change. Alburet caught his eye before he could depart, “How much to rent a room for the next twenty eight days?”

The bartender eyed him for a moment, “Includin’ a single meal and two drinks a day along with a bath once a day it will cost ya one gold and twenty silver for the rest of the month.”

Alburet placed two gold on the bar, “Two meals if I ask for them and four drinks?”

The bartender snatched the two golds, “Done, Summoner. I’ll have me daughter show ya to ya room after ya meal.”

Alburet nodded as he sipped the ale, letting the rich taste fill his mouth. He sighed contentedly at the taste. He had always been fond of good dark ales which were hard to find in the small town he lived in. He was halfway through his mug when the bartender set a bowl and small loaf of bread before him. Tasting the stew, he found it to be close to beef and barley, which went very well with the ale. Before he knew it the bowl was empty and he was using the last scrap of bread to clean the bowl.

“Seems ya enjoyed it,” Stacia said from behind him. “Iffin ya are ready for me to show ya the room?”

Alburet nodded, standing up and placing a couple of copper next to the bowl. “I shall follow as you lead,” he said with a small smile.

Stacia turned and walked up the stairs with the step of one who had other things to do, but as soon as she reached the second floor she slowed and her hips swayed enticingly as she led him to a room all the way at the end of the hall. She opened the door, stepping inside to light the lamp. Alburet followed her in but stopped just inside the door. He was pretty sure she was interested, considering this morning and the way she had swayed down the hall. “Very nice, thank you,” Alburet said, keeping his voice pleasant and calm.

Stacia turned to face him with a smile on her lips, “Ya be very welcome, Sir. Is there anything else I can do for ya tonigh'?” She stressed the words sir and anything as she spoke, making sure he heard the offer clearly.

Alburet considered for a brief moment seeing just how much she would be willing to do, but shook his head instead. “Alas, fair Stacia I have other business that cannot wait. As I’ll be staying here for the rest of the month I’m sure we will have ample time to get to know each other. A question does occur to me about,” he paused, wondering how to politely phrase what he was going to say. Not finding a way to do it he asked bluntly, “the cost of such service?”

Stacia giggled, one cheek dimpling, “Oh, ya were tryin’ to find a polite way to ask, eh? Simply put, it depends on the man. I’ve asked for up to two gold before, and gotten it to boot. For ya I am thinking it might be best to just ask for what ya think I am worth after the deed.”

Chuckling, he nodded, “A strategy likely to net you far more than a single asking price up front. I shall have to keep in mind your intelligence and forward thinking.”

Dropping a deep curtsy that gave Alburet a good view of her womanly charms, she replied to him, “We live to serve.”

Alburet tore his gaze away from her chest, “Well, I need to be going or I shall be late. I hope the rest of your night is as pleasant as you. No idea when I’ll be back but I’m sure I will see you in the morning.” He stepped out of the room as he spoke.

A slight pout was on Stacia’s lips as she stood back up, “For ya as well, Sir.” She made sure the lamp was in the middle of the table and burning before she exited the room and closed the door. “Maybe I will see ya when ya return.”

“One never knows,” he winked at her and quickly walked away. He let out his breath quietly as he did so, five years of nothing and now two women who seemed interested in sleeping with him. One admittedly for cash, but hell prostitution was legal in the small town he lived in, one of the few place in the country it was. He weaved his way through the bar and out the door, catching a glimpse of the bartender eyeing him quizzically. Alburet exited the inn headed for the portal guild at a fast walk to get there on time.

Arriving a few minutes before the meeting time, he entered to find Karen lounging on a sofa. She popped to her feet when he came in, “Was wondering if you were going to stand me up.”

“Why do I doubt anyone has ever done that to you?”

“Because you want to get me out of my leathers?”

“I don’t know any single straight man who wouldn’t,” Alburet replied as he motioned towards the reception desk where a different receptionist sat. “Shall we?”

“Now that you’re here, yes,” Karen tossed him an invite and started walking to the desk with a sway. “Ladies first I believe, right?”

Chuckling, Alburet agreed, “It is only right and proper. Besides, the view is fantastic.”

A sensuous laugh came from Karen, “I knew you would fall for my charms.”

The receptionist watched them silently, with a small frown on her face. “Can I help you?”

“Two for the ruined village to the east that is overrun by goblins,” Karen answered promptly, pulling out coin.

“That will be one and a half gold each.”

The duo handed over their coins and retreated to the lobby to wait. “She seem a bit stand offish to you?” Karen asked.

“I think she found our banter unsavory. She’s probably the uptight kind who thinks sex shouldn't be hinted at in public.”

Snorting, Karen nodded, “Oh, that makes sense. So I guess I shouldn’t suggest that you slap my ass when we go by her, right?”

Putting on a pensive look, Alburet stroked his chin, “Well, we could test my theory if we did that. However, it might also cause a small loss in rep with the guild. If you’re up for it we should though, for science of course.”

“For science,” Karen giggled then covered her mouth as she turned slightly pink.

“Oh, does the badass warrior chick have a giggly side?”

“I’m so going to pound you hard when we spar later for that,” she replied.

“Isn’t that supposed to be my line?”

Just as Karen was about to respond a cough got their attention. “Your portal is ready,” this mage was old with the traditional long, flowing white beard, “if you will follow me.”

Alburet stood up with a grin and motioned to Karen, “Ladies first.”

Shaking her head Karen, fell into step just behind the mage before glancing back at Alburet and giving her rump a wiggle, “For science.”

His face breaking into a large grin, Alburet nodded. As they passed the desk Alburet reached out and swatted Karen’s ass hard. The sound of his hand striking the leather, along with Karen’s yelp, brought the mage to a stop and the receptionist spun around, her eyes wide and her cheeks red.

“Sorry, thought I saw a spider on her and tried to get it off,” Alburet said smoothly, “please, lead on.”

Karen looked back at Alburet with her eyes smoldering, but she wasn’t about to give away the game. As the mage started walking again Karen glanced back at the receptionist, winking and blowing her a kiss. Alburet heard a strangled splutter from the receptionist. As they continued Karen fell back to walk next to Alburet, whispering softly, “I’m so going to make you pay for that. You didn’t pull that spank at all. I wasn’t expecting it to be that intense.”

“I shall pay the fee and gladly,” Alburet said calmly as they approached the door to the portal room. “I can’t deny who I am, after all.”

“So you like it rough?”

“Your portal, step into the rune and it will take you to your destination.” The mage said as he opened the door, cutting off their conversation.

Alburet bowed, “Ladies first, in all things.” Karen’s lips were drawn thin, her eyes gleaming, but she held her tongue and only nodded before she stepped onto the rune. As she vanished Alburet turned to the mage, “I’m sorry for our behavior. Please extend my apology to the receptionist as well.” He handed over a gold before he, too, stepped onto the rune.

The Messenger

As soon as he could make out the ruined barroom he spotted Karen lounging against a wall. Nodding, he quickly buffed himself with Demon Skin, then summoned Tiny and Bob and triggered his Flame Weapon ability. “Okay, I'm good to go now.”

Pushing off the wall, Karen nodded, “Okay. Let me go scout real quick.” She stepped out the door into the sunset.

Karen was back a few minutes later, “The house you were attacked from the first time has a new set of goblins in it. Only two swords with one bowman this time.”

“Sounds good, let’s get this party started. We’ll give you two minutes to get set then we’ll go over and say hi to the neighbors.”

Karen stealthed and left the building after agreeing with the plan. Two minutes later Alburet buffed Tiny and they left the inn, heading for the building Karen had indicated. The fight was over quickly thanks to their experience dealing with the packs of goblins earlier. As the last of the goblins fell, the sun finally sank behind the horizon. It grew dark in minutes Alburet blinked, trying to get his eyes adjusted to the quickly diminishing light level.

“It gets really dark pretty fast, right?” Karen said from nearby, her form barely discernible.

“Hmm. Maybe we’re done for the night?” Alburet half asked.

A soft chuckle came from Karen, “Just wait for it.” A few seconds later the gold moon rose, bringing a soft golden light to the ruins. “There it is, Nightlight.”

“Don’t tell me the moon is actually called Nightlight,” Alburet said incredulously.

“It is, according to the books in game,” Karen said then waited, looking at the sky. “Besides, it does what the name says. Consider how dark it was a moment ago.”

“Okay, point. However they really could have done a better job of naming it.” He gazed at the golden moon, noting the craters that marked its surface.

“Oh, by the way,” Karen said softly from behind him, “vengeance is mine.” Her hand smacked into his ass hard, causing him to let out a small yelp and turn to face her.

Tiny roared and brought his axe up, turning to face Karen. Bob looked on, laughing but otherwise doing nothing. Alburet held up a hand, “Hold, Tiny! She was owed that one from when we were in the city, so stand down. She is not an enemy.”

“But she attacked you master!” Tiny bellowed, his eyes glowing in the dim light as his hand flexed on the axe haft.

“As he said, it was payback for the spanking he gave me earlier.”

“Fee paid, as agreed,” Alburet replied before turning to Bob. “That’s enough, Bob.”

“Fine,” Bob said, still chortling slightly.

Tiny lowered his axe, still visibly angry as he turned to Alburet. “We going to kill more?”

“As soon as Karen decides she’s ready,” Alburet said, looking around only to find Karen gone. He checked the map and saw her down the street entering a building. A moment later his message icon lit up telling him she was ready. “Seems she already found our next target. Let’s go.” He rebuffed Tiny as they set out for the next set of goblins.

The next four hours was a repeat of earlier in the day, with them moving from ruined house to ruined house killing all they found. Eventually Karen called it a day, “Okay, I think I’m done for now. We both leveled during this run, so that’s good enough for now. You need to be careful with that new spell, though. It hurts friendlies, excluding your minions who seem immune to it.”

“Yeah, sorry about that. And we never found the messenger, either,” Alburet said as he stepped to the doorway to loot the goblin there. He did so he noticed a lone goblin moving down the street towards them. Focusing on it, he checked the name and level of the goblin, Goblin Messenger level 15. “Psst, Karen. You might want to stealth.”

Karen faded from view and came over to look out the door. She whispered, clearly excited to see the goblin, “That’s the one we need.”

“Okay. Tiny will engage him, then we all pile in,” Alburet said softly, looking back at Tiny. “Let him get a touch closer first, Tiny.” He eased into the house and buffed Tiny again with Retribution, Haze and Vitality. “You’re good to go.”

Tiny nodded, waiting another few seconds before he went sprinting out of the house with a roar. The Goblin Messenger looked up to see Tiny barreling down on it barely in time to throw itself away from the attack. Alburet and Bob came out of the ruined house just as Tiny missed. Alburet went to close the distance as Bob began his barrage of Fire Blasts. The goblin came to its feet with twin short swords and a red glow surrounding it as it attacked Tiny.

Alburet got there a moment later, but held his attack as he waited for Tiny to gain more aggro. Tiny was being pressed pretty hard from the barrage of attacks the goblin was launching at him. Once its life dipped a bit more Karen appeared, her blades sinking into its back.

“It will try to run at a quarter life,” Karen said as she attacked again.

“Okay,” Alburet replied as he finally swung the maul, hitting the goblin in the side. As Karen had said, at 25% life the goblin turned to run only to find itself cut off, then cut down in short order. Alburet chuckled, “That’s a good way to end the night.”

Karen looted the goblin, holding up a scroll and a messenger bag. “These are the quest items. Are you going to be on tomorrow?”

“Yes,” Alburet said, wondering why he hadn’t gotten the quest as well.

“Okay. Meet at the Stormguard fort tomorrow, say about ten in the morning? I’ll start the quest line then. If anyone else you know is on then, invite them as well. The boss this thing spawns is level twenty, so we could use some more help.” Karen said as she put the scroll and bag into her pack.

Whistling softly, Alburet nodded, “That is going to be fun.”

“Not really, but the rewards are normally worth it. Thanks again for the fun day and night. I would see about doubling down on the fun, but I do need some sleep.” Karen stretched her body before coming over to stand a foot in front of Alburet looking up at him. “Maybe tomorrow after we kill the boss we can have some extra fun?”

“Sounds like a good time to me,” Alburet said with a chuckle, resisting the urge to pat her head.

“Good,” Karen leapt up, wrapping her legs around his waist and planting a deep kiss on him. After a minute she broke the kiss, her eyes smoldering, “Just a hint of things that might possibly come.” She vanished as she logged out.

A catcall brought Alburet back to reality, “Work it, you stud you.”

“Funny, Bob. Hahaha.” Alburet said, looking over at the imp. “We’re done guys, so go get your rest.”

Both demons vanished, Bob beat boxing some old style porn music, leaving him all alone in the ruined village with the moon starting to descend from its apex. Pulling out his Homestone while shaking his head to clear it, Alburet paused to look at the moon one more time. With a small smile on his lips he invoked the stone and appeared in the graveyard next to the Dead Man Inn. “Home again, home again jiggity jig…” he said softly as he put the stone away.

Taking a single step away from where he spawned, he suddenly felt a searing pain in his back. He tried to move but his muscles locked up and the pain spread through him, radiating from the knife in his back. He wanted to howl in pain but he couldn’t form any sound. He noted two new debuffs on him, Poisoned and Paralyzed. A hooded man came into his field of view wearing a dark grey and green splotched cloak.

“Well, this will count as one. Only two more kills to go now, two-souled. The contract says to let you know that the House of Gilden is quite perturbed with you. However, they decided to take it easy on you for your first offense, just three deaths at the hands of the Dark Nights guild. So keep this in mind, if you upset your betters they send us after you.” A hand tilted Alburet's head so he could see a masked face with two red tinted eyes meeting his. “You will have your reprieve dictated by the gods, but I will be back for you eventually.”

Alburet caught sight of the dagger as it slid under his point of view, followed by the pain of his throat being cut before death claimed him. As soon as his life reached zero he was a ghost floating above his corpse in a washed out world, watching as his murderer calmly cleaned his dagger before vanishing with a dark chuckle. Alburet wanted to scream and curse at his attacker but was unable to as a ghost. Two minutes later he was standing in the graveyard, alive again.

“Motherfucker,” Alburet hissed, his eyes tracking the darkness around him. When nothing happened he checked a new buff that appeared, learning something new.

God’s Will; you have been killed by an assassin or another player. Due to this you are immune from non-monster attacks for one hour unless you instigate them.

Taking a deep breath, Alburet felt his knuckles pop as he clenched his hands. Forcing them open, he tried to center himself. Minutes rolled by until he finally got his anger under control. Once he was mostly centered Alburet entered the inn. The taproom was mostly empty, with maybe half a dozen people about.

Stacia looked up from her spot behind the bar, giving him a bright smile, “Welcome back, sir. Be ya interested in a bit of drink or food before ya retire?”

Alburet looked over at her eager smile, “Dark ale please, and maybe just a snack to tide me over until morning. Can you have them sent to my room, please? I want to bathe first.”

Stacia nodded, “One second, please.” She darted into the back briefly, coming back out followed by what was certainly a sister who took over the bar. Stacia was carrying a small covered plate as she picked up a full mug. “Iffin ya will follow me sir, I will show ya to the bath once I drop off ya food and drink.”

Alburet followed after Stacia, who was all business as she led him upstairs to his room, setting the refreshments down on the table. Alburet dropped his bags and gear into the wardrobe which indicated it was a secure storage place before following her again. She led him out of the room and down an off shoot hallway near the stairs, which led to the bathing room. She opened the door, ushering him into a massive room that held a giant heated tub, a few smaller empty tubs and a row of what he thought were shower heads. “This is the bathing room, sir. The big tub is for after ya are cleaned to relax in. The showers are the first step of bathing,” she paused and looked at him from the corner of her eye. “Ya know it would be easier to just show ya sir, iffin ya be interested.”

Alburet eyed the twenty year old buxom woman for a moment. “I have a bad feeling about this,” he said softly.

“I be havin' a very good feeling about this meself,” Stacia said her hands on the laces of her dress as she held them without loosening them. “The decision be up to ya.”

Alburet took a second to try and figure out what he really wanted. “I am so very tempted to find out exactly how far you would take it, Stacia. However, I’m beat and I have a long day ahead of me tomorrow so I think I’m going to have to pass.”

Stacia pouted her lips, “How about iffin I promise to behave and just wash ya, take ya back to ya room to feed ya, massage ya and then tuck ya in?”

Alburet felt his resolve break at the idea of her hands working on his muscles, “I yield.”

Stacia’s eyes lit up when he agreed, “Aye, first strip all the way down to ya skin, please.”

Alburet did so and was guided by Stacia to a stool under a shower head. She sat him down, showing him the pull chain to wet himself down. She went off to get soap, leaving him to enjoy the warm water falling gently on him, as if he were in a warm thunderstorm. As he enjoyed the feeling a pair of soft hands gently touched his back and he tensed slightly before relaxing, reminding himself that he wasn’t being attacked.

Stacia was humming a tune he didn’t know as she used the citrus scented soap and a cloth to lather him. Alburet relaxed under her hands, letting her raise his arms or bend him slightly this way or that to soap him. He stood when he was asked for her to get his ass and legs before he was told he could sit again. He was in a slight dazed state when he felt her bare breasts rub against his back, her nipples hard as she wrapped her arms around him. “Now be still, I’m only washing ya and that is all,” her words were a soft caress in his ear as her hands gently embraced his manhood.

“Stacia…,” Alburet breathed out in half reprimand, half desire.

“Shh, I be only cleaning ya. I promised to be good, after all,” she whispered again. Her hands were deft and clinical as she soaped him. “See?” she said as she withdrew her breasts from his back as well. “Time to rinse,” she said as she stepped around him, showing off her naked body as she gently tugged the chain to bring the water down on them both.

Alburet drank in the sight of her naked body before him, the water cascading off of her endowed chest allowing it to rinse the soap off her body. He sat there mostly motionless as if in a trance as she wiped the soap from her before taking his unresisting hand and putting it on the chain. He grasped it as she knelt before him and used her hands to make sure all the soap was removed from his body. She did it methodically, robbing some of the sensuality from it but not all. She got him to stand as she knelt there which presented his manhood to her eye level but she seemed to disregard it. He felt a wave of desire urging him to tangle his hands in her hair and take her. His hands trembled and he was about to act on the idea when she turned him around to clean the soap from his back.

Once she was done she stood and led him over to the big tub, helping him settle into it. He leaned back on a contoured seat, the water coming to just under his chin as the hot water eased his tired body. He let out a sigh of pleasure as the tension ebbed away. He briefly wondered why he felt any tension here inside the game, but the thought went away as he just let the water relax him. Some time later a small cough got his attention. Prying his eyes open he found Stacia dressed again, standing next to the tub holding a towel.

“Sir, ya might want to think about getting out now.”

Climbing to his feet, Alburet stepped out of the tub reaching out to take the towel, only to have Stacia chide him gently as she began to dry him. Once he was dry to her satisfaction, she wrapped him in a terrycloth robe and led him back to his room. He wondered briefly about his clothes, asking about them only to be told they were in his room already. When they reached his room, Stacia seated him at a chair near the table and seated herself beside him.

“Now for me to feed ya,” She uncovered the tray, which had sliced melon on it. She batted his hand when he reached for a piece, “No.” She picked one up herself and held it out to him, “Say ahh.”

Alburet chuckled, “Really?”

Stacia arched a single brow at him, “Say ahh.”

He did so, which resulted in the bite of food being placed gently onto his tongue. He winced slightly as the sweet fruit, reminiscent of Honeydew, sent a rush of sugar into his teeth just as sweet things did to him in real life. Stacia smirked at him slightly as she presented the next bite. Chuckling, he let her feed him one bite at a time. He discovered that she had changed the dark ale for a fruit tea that complimented the meal wonderfully. As he finished the last bite she asked him again to say ah. Puzzled by the lack of food in her hands, he still did so only to have her gently place her finger into his mouth. He gently sucked her fingers clean one by one, watching her expression as he did so. He could feel the desire in both of them as she reluctantly took her last digit away from him before standing.

Taking his hand, she led him to the bed which was turned down. She deftly undid his robe, slipping it from his body before laying him face down on the bed. “We end with the massage, sir,” she whispered into his ear, husky heat filling her words.

Alburet took a shuddering breath as she began to rub oil into his skin. He relaxed under her skilled hands as she found the remaining spots of tension and gently but firmly eased them away. He wasn’t sure when the massage ended or when Stacia left. He only vaguely recalled her whispering something to him as darkness claimed him.

Alburet woke to the scent of fresh coffee mingling with the scent of the most holy of foods, bacon. Rubbing his eyes he sat up with a yawn, blinking his eyes he looked around and found the source of the scent at the table. At the table was Stacia, who was adding some milk to a cup as she smiled at him.

“Morning, sir. I took the liberty of makin’ preparations for ya breakfast. I do be hopin’ tha’ I was not wrong to do so,” she came to the bed with the cup held out to him.

Alburet took the offered cup, “Much more than I was expecting, Stacia.” He took a sip, finding the coffee perfectly the way he liked it. He frowned as he wondered how she could have known how he liked his coffee. He glanced up at her watching him expectantly. “It’s perfect, Stacia,” he said slowly as he pondered how she could have known.

“Ya frowned when sipping it, though,” Stacia said her voice carrying the tone of uncertainty.

“I was wondering how you could possibly know how I liked my coffee. I owe you my thanks for the wonderful night last night.” Alburet said, recalling that he’d fallen asleep during the massage. He pushed back the covers, “Can you hand me my clothes, please?”

Stacia pouted slightly but turned to the chair behind her to grab his clothing, handing it to him. “As ya wish, sir.”

Alburet traded his cup for the clothes, dressing quickly before sitting at the table. He motioned Stacia to join him, “Tell me Stacia, do you always go this far for the guests here?”

“Na. Ya be different though, sir. Not only be ya a two-souled, ya be a kind one to boot. None of the others tha’ have come here took the time to talk to us like regular folk. They come running in and out to speak with Stewart or one of the others. Ya though, took room with us, partook and enjoyed the food, acted like any of us normal folk would. Ya caugh’ me attention somethin’ fierce by doin’ tha’.”

Uncovering the plate Alburet found cheesy eggs, bacon and a chunk of bread. Sipping at the coffee he considered her words as she poured herself a cup of coffee. He took a bite of the food, closing his eyes briefly in appreciation at the meal. “I understand now why you seemed so eager to offer so much attention. I’m just a normal guy though, Stacia. Nothing to get worked up over. It might be best if you tried to set aside however you currently view me as I’m sure I will only disappoint you.”

Stacia looked down at her lap as she sipped her coffee, “I understand, sir. I be sorry if me attention has been bothersome. I’ll go and leave ya alone now.” She rose, putting her half empty cup on the table before curtsying to him.

Alburet caught a glimpse of her upset face as she stood up from her curtsy. He felt his weakness for females in distress kick in as she went to walk past him. He gently snagged her hand, causing her to stop. “It isn’t a bother, Stacia. I just know that you will only be disappointed in time. I have been more than happy with everything you’ve done to this point. Please do not think I dislike you in any way.”

She met his honest eyes with her slightly damp eyes, “I wasn’t sure. I mean, ya seemed to respond to me some last night but ya didn’t act on it at all. Will it be okay if I continue to serve ya as I already have?”

“I would be happy to have you do so, Stacia. I don’t know if I will ever ask for more than you have already given though, so please keep that in mind.”

Stacia gracefully lowered herself to her knees next to his chair, covering his hand with hers as she looked up at him through lowered lashes. “I understand sir, just as long as ya know tha’ I am more than willing for more.” She took his hand, gently kissing the palm of it before placing it on her chest where he could feel her heart racing.

He felt himself stir at the sight of her kneeling beside him, as well as her words and where she had his hand currently. He swallowed hard, his mouth suddenly dry. “Stacia…”

She met his eyes through her lashes, the same hunger he felt mirrored in hers. “I be willin’ to do anythin’ ya be wantin’ sir. No matter how unusual ya request might be, I will gladly fulfill all of ya needs.”

He felt his resolve start to crumble, the eagerness she expressed along with all the teasing he had endured yesterday was taking its toll. “I’m ten years your senior…” he stammered, trying one last time to forestall what was coming.

She cut him off as she eased his hand down to one of her breasts. “Mayhap ya can teach me then, sir. I warn ya, I be needin’ a firm hand to guide me.” Her eyes went from eager to sultry as she felt him squeeze her eager flesh. A soft moan escaped her lips as his thumb brushed her erect nipple, “A very firm hand.”

Dropping the fork, he succumbed to her desires as he reached down and tangled a hand in her hair. “Well then, let me teach you, you eager little wench.” He felt his darker nature start to come out to play as spoke.

He was covered in sweat and panting by the time they finally stopped. He glanced at the top of her head resting on his chest, “Well, that wasn’t how I thought today was going to start but I can’t think of a better way it could have.” Alburet said, kissing the top of her head.

She gently touched some bruises from the intense spanking she had gotten that were healing up as he watched. “We live to serve, sir,” Stacia murmured contentedly as she nuzzled his neck. “I hesitate to suggest this sir, but ya could bargain with me Da’ to make me ya full time maid while ya stay here. It would mean I would be at ya beck and call only, ready to help serve ya in anyway ya wanted at any time.” She stroked his chest hair gently.

Alburet’s mind carried her words into the gutter of his mind and he felt his groin stir slightly at the thoughts. He coughed as he forced his mind out of that track, “A good suggestion, Stacia. However I don’t know how often I will be back here during the time I’ve rented the room and I would hate to hurt how smoothly the place runs by having you all to myself.”

Stacia slid her body over the top of his sensuously, pausing to kiss him deeply before she got out of bed. “Ya would nay hurt anything except me feelings iffin ya donnae ask.” She got a basin of water and a cloth from the sideboard then came back to the bed. “Now let me clean us both up so ya can go do the things ya said ya needed to do today.”

Alburet left her as she started to clean the room up. He went down the stairs to find the bartender behind the bar. “Morning sir,” Alburet approached the bar wondering how to ask what he had been told to ask. “I have a question about a long term lodger such as myself acquiring one of the employees as a full time maid while they stay here.”

The bartender eyed him with narrowed eyes for a time, “Which of me daughters put ya up to this?”

Alburet blinked before replying, “Stacia. She can be quite demanding and forceful when she wants to be.”

A snort of muffled laughter came from her father, “Ya don’t be knowin’ the half of it. Iffin she asked ya to ask then the price be ten gold for the month ya be stayin’ with us.”

Frowning slightly at the high price compared to the room, Alburet dropped five gold onto the bar, “Can I pay the rest tonight? I have to sell some things before I have the rest.”

“Aye. Pay the rest by this time tomorrow and we’ll call it a deal. I have a question though, iffin ya willin to answer it?” Alburet nodded so he continued, “Which of ya started the contact?”

“Stacia,” Alburet replied. “For some reason she seems fascinated with me. I tried to warn her off but she persisted. I’ll be back later, I need to get going if I’m going to make the appointments I’ve already agreed to.”

“Good day and luck be with ya,” the bartender replied as Alburet set out. As Alburet left the bar the owner motioned to Stewart, seated at his usual table. “Stew, we need to be havin' a talk about tha' one.”

Alburet left the inn sedately, then started to jog to the portal guild to get a portal to Stormguard fort. Just as he was about to pass through the graveyard a sharp blow hit the back of his head, stunning him. As he tried to regain control of his body a sharp pain pierced his back just as it had the night before. The same two debuffs appeared on his bar. He wanted to yell at the attacker but all he could do was topple over as he was pushed. The same voice from last night came to his ears a moment later.

“This is two, only one more death to go until we complete our contract. Remember, it is unwise to upset the House of Gilden.” The assassin let Alburet see the knife for a moment before his throat was cut again.

Alburet wanted to scream in rage as the assassin cleaned his blade before vanishing just like the night before. Two minutes later he was alive again with his anger still high. Taking a deep breath he started jogging for the portal guild. He was a little calmer but still angry when he got to the tower. Entering, he saw it was busy, with several groups gathered in the waiting are. He took a moment to look over the crowd in the waiting area, but didn’t see anyone he knew. Sighing, he went to the desk where the helpful receptionist sat.

“Morning sir, and welcome back. Where are you off to today?”

“The Stormguard fort, actually,” Alburet replied, his anger abating some at her friendly smile.

“Taking an easy day today? That is always good to do once in a while. There are a number of groups heading there today, if you want to try and join one of them…” she paused as Alburet shook his head.

“I’d rather just pay the gold and sit in line. Last time I asked about joining a group it almost went very badly and I’d rather not deal with idiots today.” He set a gold on the desk. He had felt slightly bad about not paying in full for Stacia right away, but he knew he was going to need coin for the portal.

“Of course, sir. Take a seat please, and thanks again for coming to us for your travel needs.”

Alburet gave her a small bow before he went off to the waiting area. He went by the group of muscle bound idiots from the day before who were also waiting for a portal today. Finding a seat out of the way, he pulled out his Mindstone and sent a message to Karen letting her know he was waiting on the portal. He also sent messages off to Mary, Gerald, DrFrank and Fluffball letting them know that he knew of a quest that was about to start.

A moment later his mail icon lit up as he got a message from Karen telling him she would wait for him, she was already at the fort. No other messages came before the portal mage took him to the portal room. He tipped a gold to the mage, thanking him before he stepped into the portal.

He took a moment to get his bearings before stopping at both the merchant and smith to offload the junk in his bags. Coin in hand, he entered the fort proper looking for Karen. As he passed through the doorway he felt a tap to the back of a knee, causing his leg to buckle. He turned that into a roll, coming to his feet as he spun to face a smirking Karen.

“Glad to see you’re still ready for a fight,” Karen laughed as she tossed him a group invite. “You ready for some fun?”

Alburet shook his head ruefully, “Should have known that was going to be you and yes I am.” He accepted the invite with a smile, “I let the few people I know that there’s something afoot, but no one has replied as of yet.”

“There are a few steps before the boss spawns. We can get some of them done ahead of time.” Karen said, eyeing him with a quizzical expression before her lips quirked up into her normal smirk. “So, have a good night or a good morning?”

Head tilting slightly in confusion, Alburet shrugged, “I had a good night, a nice hot soak followed by a massage.”

“Ah, so a happy ending then?” Karen said nodding her head. “You seem way more relaxed today.”

Understanding dawning, Alburet chuckled, “No, I didn’t have a happy ending during the massage actually. I was seduced by the masseuse this morning though, and let me tell you she knows what she’s doing.”

“Darn and I wanted to re-pop that cherry tonight,” Karen mock pouted.

“On the plus side, I’ll last longer now that I’m not all pent up from five years of fasting,” Alburet grinned.

Putting on a pensive look, Karen nodded, “You do raise a good point. We shall have to see, but first let’s get this ball rolling.” She stepped over to Sergeant Jasper, “Sergeant, I have something you might be interested in.”

Jasper looked up at her, “What do you have?”

Karen took the scroll from the Goblin Messenger from her bag with a flourish before handing it over. Jasper read the scroll, his eyes widening, “The Commander should see this. Follow me, please.” He tugged a bell pull and a private came running up, “Man the desk for a moment, private.” Jasper led them up the stairs then down a hall to another set of stairs. Two guards were posted at the base of these stairs, looking bored but alert. He held a quick muttered conversation before he motioned again and the trio went up. He led them to the first room, where the door was open. Stepping in, Jasper coughed softly.

“Sir, I bring news and the ones who brought it,” Jasper saluted from the door.

An old man with thick white eyebrows and a very thick mustache looked up from some paperwork, returning the salute to Jasper then eyeing Karen and Alburet. “Very well, sergeant. Bring them in and tell me what is so important.”

Jasper nodded, coming to stand before the desk flanked by the Karen and Alburet. He handed the scroll to the commander and fell into parade rest. Alburet mirrored Jasper subconsciously but was a touch shocked when Karen did the same. The commander eyed them again for a moment before reading the scroll. Pursing his lips, he nodded. “You did the right thing, sergeant. Return to your duties. I will speak with these two alone.”

Jasper saluted, marching out of the room with a friendly nod to Alburet as he went by. Alburet returned his gaze to the commander, who was studying him. “Tell me, are you the one my men have been talking about the last few days?” The commander’s eyes were hard to read as he studied Alburet.

“Possibly, sir,” Alburet replied, coming to attention.

“You sparred with them and showed them some unarmed combat techniques?”

“Yes, sir.”

“Very good,” the commander’s eyes turned to Karen briefly before going back to Alburet. “Will you vouch for her?”

“I have trusted her with my life in combat on multiple occasions sir. I will also say she is more talented than I am when it comes to hand to hand combat.”

Nodding the commander turned to Karen, “You have not worked to garner our favor but since he vouches for you I will consider you trustworthy for the mission to come. I want you to plant false evidence on a goblin patrol near the orc lands. If you will leave the messenger bag with us so we can set up the decoy it will take us two hours to have it ready to go.”

Karen saluted, “Yes sir.” She pulled the messenger bag out and set it on his desk.

“Very well, return to me in two hours. Until then you are dismissed.”

The duo saluted and marched out of the room. Alburet was a little surprised at how well Karen managed it. As they got to the hallway Alburet coughed quietly to get Karen’s attention. “So, why are you so good at mimicking military protocol?”

“My dad was in the service for twenty years,” Karen shrugged. “I was raised on military protocol, might be why I’ve always been a tomboy at heart.”

Chuckling Alburet shook his head, “We have two hours to kill. How about that friendly sparring match?”

“You want to go all the way back to Stormguard to spar?”

“Nope, follow me please,” he said as he led her down to Jasper. “Sir,” Alburet said, giving a salute to the sergeant, “I need a favor.”

“What do you need, Alburet?”

“Permission to use the training room, sir. This beautiful woman is going to kick my ass there, so if you and some of the others want a good laugh come and watch.”

Jasper eyed Karen dubiously, then nodded, “Give me five minutes before you begin.”

Alburet nodded turning back to Karen, “So, about that match?”

“Oh why not,” she smirked as she flexed her shoulders. “Lead on and we’ll see if you can keep up with me.”

Alburet led her to the training room where he’d sparred with the men a few days ago. As they limbered up after setting their gear aside, a small mob of soldiers came in lining the walls. Jasper came in a moment later with a smile on his face.

Alburet nodded to the men who called out to him before he addressed the crowd. “Men, you were all impressed by what I showed you the other day. Pay attention today as I spar with this opponent. It should drive home the point of what I was trying to teach you.” He turned to Karen and bowed to her, “Are you ready?”

Karen came out to the middle and bowed in return before standing up and getting into a balanced stance, “Bring it, cream puff.”

Alburet

Human Summoner

Level 12

Strength: 17

Agility: 17

Constitution: 25

Intelligence: 38

Wisdom: 42

Charisma: 25

Health: 850

Mana: 1020

Spells:

Demon Skin-Rank 2

Demonic Retribution

Summon Least Imp

Fire Blast

Sap Strength

Demonic Haze

Summon Lesser Destroyer

Demonic Vitality

Fire Burst

Abilities:

Personal Spells

Flame Weapon

Sparring

Alburet slid forward on balanced feet, closing the distance slowly as Karen stood there waiting. He knew he had reach on her but she was more practiced than he was. He attacked, only to have her dart back out of his range. A smile came to her lips as she continued to avoid his attacks with ease. Alburet knew he was being measured and toyed with after a minute as none of his attacks had come close to landing where he wanted them or even at all.

“Well this is fun, but I think it's a bit lacking,” Karen said as the next attack missed, “let's get started, shall we?”

She came in low, attacking his knees. Alburet danced back, but felt her connect with his leading leg as he pulled it back breaking his balance. She didn’t give him a chance to regain his balance, but kept coming. He found himself entirely on the defensive, trying to block or avoid her attacks which were faster than his had been.

Alburet knew he was outclassed but he couldn't help but smile as Karen kept after him. He hadn't been challenged like this in years and he felt joy that he was being tested again. However, his thoughts reflecting on the past cost him now as she finally caught his knee hard enough to make him fall. As he dropped to the mat he tried to roll away only to find her glued to his back as her arms caught him.

She wrapped his arm and got her legs locked on him for an arm bar and applied pressure. Alburet gasped as she exerted enough pressure to cause real pain. He tapped the floor twice and sighed when she let him go.

Popping to her feet she smiled to the men who applauded her, “Thank you, gentlemen.”

Alburet got to his feet slowly and let out a deep breath, “I'm so rusty and out of my league.”

“Don't worry, I'll beat you back into shape. Two hours is what the commander said, right?” Karen's eyes sparkled, “We can go full contact here, you know. It's not like you’ll die.”

Alburet flexed his arm as his health replenished and the pain faded, “True, but I'm at full sensors and I doubt you are.”

Karen shrugged then seemed to fiddle with the air for a second, “Okay, now we’re even. You ready for round two at full contact?”

Shaking his head, Alburet replied, “I'm so going to suffer. But yes, I accept the full contact match with my superior.” He finished with a full bow to her.

Chuckling, Karen bowed her head, “I’ll be glad to put you back together later.”

For the next hour the duo sparred. Alburet was only able to win a submit from Karen once during the entire time, while she got him well over a dozen times. Once they finished Jasper came forward and bowed to them both.

“I wonder if you would mind walking us through a few of those techniques?”

Quest: Teach the Stormguard Fort guards some martial arts

Reward: Reputation increase with all Stormguard Guard factions

Karen blinked then bowed her head, “I would be glad to.”

“We will be glad to, but a large class would not be the best. Give her the twenty best guards you have to teach.” Alburet interjected, looking at Karen who nodded.

“Okay,” Jasper replied, pointing out the nineteen lucky guards. “The rest of you are dismissed.” He turned to the duo, “Okay, myself and these others are your class.”

Alburet nodded and started off to the side to take a seat, “All yours, Karen.”

Karen snagged his shirt, “Oh no you don't. I’m going to need a training dummy and you're it.”

Sighing, Alburet nodded, “Should have seen that coming.”

A wicked smile creased her lips, “If you’re really good maybe I'll ice you down later.”

Karen spent the next hour in instructor mode, using Alburet to demonstrate the techniques she was teaching the guards. They stopped when a messenger came, calling the duo back to the commander. “Alright, we’re done. Good job. Just practice those moves with each other until they’re second nature.” Karen said as she grabbed her gear.

“Thank you both,” Jasper said, saluting them.

Quest Completed: Teach the Stormguard Fort guards some martial arts

Receive: Increased reputation with all Stormguard Guard factions

The pair returned the salute then followed the messenger to the commander. Karen chuckled, “Well, that gets me to Liked with the guards here.”

“Oh good, maybe I won't have to vouch for you anymore,” Alburet said. “I forgot what a good long, hard session was like with a skilled instructor.”

“I thought you said the masseuse was skilled? I'm sure that was a long hard session wasn't it?” Karen deadpanned.

Shaking his head, Alburet grinned, “Oh she was. Somehow I think you can out do her in some ways, though.”

“Should I accept that challenge or not? Hmm...” Karen smirked but fell silent as they were ushered before the commander.

The Commander looked up as they came in, “Welcome back. We’ve changed the mission. The satchel contained plans for the goblins and orcs to team up to attack the forts. Instead of planting false information, your mission now is to disrupt a key meeting that is to take place to the south. Any questions?”

Quest: Stop the Goblins and Orcs meeting in the southern province

Reward: Twenty gold and increased reputation with all Stormguard Guard factions

“So we just need to find and break up the meeting?” Alburet asked.

“A Goblin Messenger and an Orc Messenger should be meeting somewhere to the south. Intercept and kill them.” The commander said before dismissing them once they accepted the quest.

Alburet saluted before turning on his heel and leaving, Karen’s actions mirroring his own. Once they were out of the office Alburet glanced at Karen. “So, what’s the plan?”

“We can jump to Stormguard and take a portal to the keep closest to the orcs, or we can just go south killing stuff as we go. Once we’re done it will be easiest to port back to Stormguard.”

“I'm free all day, so what do you want to do?”

“Let's just take a portal. I don't feel like spending hours trekking south.” Karen said, pulling out her Homestone.

Alburet nodded, “See you there shortly.”

Alburet paused as Karen vanished and buffed himself with everything he could, then used his own Homestone. He appeared in the graveyard with no one else near him, so he took two steps towards the portal guild then suddenly thrust both hands up and spoke, “Ground zero.” A blast of fire filled the space around him in a thirty foot circle that left only him untouched by the flames.

He heard a grunt of pain from behind him. Alburet dove forward and rolled to his feet, turning while pulling the maul from his back and invoking Flame Weapon.

“I was going to kill you nice and easy again, but now I’ll do it the hard way,” the same cloaked figure who had killed him twice said as he patted at a scorch mark on his cloak. Twirling a dagger, the enemy sheathed it and drew a different blade from under his cloak. “I hope you enjoy pain,” the enemy hissed as he took a step forward and vanished.

Alburet glanced at the inn just in time to see Stewart stick his head out the door. “Stewart, could use a hand,” Alburet said as he started backing away from where the assassin had been. “Seems I have an assassin trying to kill me for a third time.”

Stewart came out of the building looking thoughtful, “How many times are you supposed to die?”

“Three, already died twice but this time I caught him with Fire Burst.”

“That seems a touch excessive. Who did you piss off?”

Alburet shook his head, “Can we talk about it later? Right now I just would rather not get killed again.”

Stewart shrugged, “Assassin, can we talk?”

The man in the cloak appeared right behind Alburet, the knife pricking his back just enough for the poison to be applied. “No need. He is dead, and that is the last of it. Try not to piss off House Gilden again.”

The poison spread quickly from the small cut on his back, causing Alburet to seize in pain. Gasping and falling to his knees, he only vaguely heard the assassin speaking as his muscles began rhythmically spasming. The pain of his muscles forcefully contracting was intense, making him shake as each wave washed through him.

The assassin smirked at Stewart before he walked off. Stewart waited a second then went to Alburet and checked him. “Ew, nasty stuff. You’re losing 5% of your health every second and it’s going to hurt worse as it drags on. So the simple thing to do is this,” Stewart put his hand on Alburet’s back and said something.

A brief flash of heat filled Alburet, then he was floating above his corpse and Stewart was standing up, wiping his hand. Stewart hung around until Alburet reappeared a few steps away. “Better to just end your life quickly than let the poison keep hitting you.”

Alburet closed his eyes as he bit down on his anger at having been killed yet again. His voice came out rough and harsh, “Yeah, thanks for that.”

“So you pissed off Gilden House?”

Shaking his head, Alburet opened his eyes to look at Stewart, “Later. I have things to do and if I start thinking about it right now I will react badly.”

Pursing his lips, Stewart watched him carefully but nodded, “Later, then.” He turned to walk back into the inn, but paused when Alburet spoke again.

“Thank you, for stopping the pain.” The words came out clipped and angry.

Stewart nodded then waved as he walked into the inn without glancing back, “We should talk later.”

Alburet took off towards the portal guild at a fast walk, still seething with anger. As he reached the door he heard a cough behind him, turning he found Karen looking at him with curiosity.

“So what happened to twist you around the loop?” Karen asked as she entered the building with him.

“I was just killed for the third time by an assassin,” Alburet replied, his voice level but the anger still clearly evident on his face.

“Someone took a contract out on you?”

“I seem to have upset the House of Gilden. They paid for me to die three times and to be told who had taken the contract out on me.” He stopped behind the person speaking to the receptionist and let out a deep breath. “Sorry for my attitude right now, but I’m a little pissed. This time he used a convulsive poison that was taking 5% of my life per second while causing excruciating pain.”

“Wow, I’m so going to ask my trainer about that poison next time I see him. So, who is the House of Gilden and how did you piss them off?” Karen asked, smiling at the receptionist who greeted them. “Hi. We need a group portal to the small keep that is near the southern orc area.”

“Ahh, a change of scenery is always good. The price is one and a half gold each,” Alburet handed the three gold to the receptionist, earning him an arch look from Karen.

“I owed you from selling the junk from last night,” Alburet said, forestalling Karen’s argument.

“Right, okay then. Now, who is the House of Gilden?” Karen said as they went to the waiting area and found seats.

“A minor noble house that I seemed to have pissed off. The only person I’ve upset to such a degree that I know of is a guard called Wilber. He’s supposedly a son of that house.”

Karen waved her hand in a keep going motion. Alburet sighed and relayed the story of his encounters with Wilber. Just as he was finishing up the portal mage, Rolland, came to get them. “So there it is,” Alburet said, nodding to Rolland, “you know everything I do.” By the time he finished his tale he was also calm again.

“Okay, the kid kept getting upset over being called Skippy. Weird, but okay.” Karen replied shaking her head, “Probably the weirdest reason I’ve ever heard of to hire an assassin.”

“Yeah, so I’m going to speak with Captain Ramirez tomorrow. Maybe he can shed some more light on this topic for me.”

“Here we are,” Rolland said motioning them into the room with a glowing glyph on the floor.

Karen stepped right on through while Alburet pulled out one of his last few golds, “Thanks again, Rolland.”

“Our pleasure sir, and our thanks. You have been the only one of late who has tipped us consistently and we appreciate that.” Rolland bowed slightly, “We look forward to your continued patronage.”

“See you soon, I’m sure,” Alburet replied with a smile before stepping onto the glyph.

In a blink he was standing in a fort half the size of the one near the goblin area, but with the same number of men stationed there. He glanced out the gate to see grass lands stretching away with small groups of Orcs with really ugly wolves patrolling the area.

“Orcs and wargs. So cliché, am I right?” Karen asked from beside him. “Shall we get going?”

Alburet called Tiny and Bob to him then reapplied his Demon Skin. “Okay, I’m ready to kick ass and chew bubble gum.”

“There is no bubble gum here,” Karen laughed, “so just ass kicking it will be.”

Tiny grumbled, “Can I just cut them in half instead?”

Bob laughed, “So simple it hurts.”

Rolling his eyes, Alburet replied, “It means we are going to kill lots of stuff, Tiny, and yes you can.”

The group set off with Karen in the lead as she knew the patrol points of the Goblin Messengers from her time in the beta. As they went they dispatched the few groups of roving orcs with wargs that they encountered. During the first combat Alburet learned something interesting when Tiny was tripped to the ground by a warg. Once combat was over Karen shrugged, “Sorry, forgot to tell you. If they land a bite on your leg they’ll try to pull you down so you’re more vulnerable to the Orcs.”

“Good to know,” Alburet said as Tiny healed up as combat was over. “So, new plan. Kill the wargs first so we don’t have to worry about it as much.”

“I’ve been meaning to ask,” Karen said as they started moving again, “why do you play with immersion all the way up?”

“I would love to tell you but I can’t at this time,” Alburet apologized.

“Hmm, mysterious. I just find it weird that you wanted to have full pain during the sparring matches.”

“I live dangerously. I’ll find out in a few weeks what I can and can’t discuss. If you’re still around then, maybe you can find out.”

“Ha, baiting the trap to keep my attention, right?”

“I thought being able to use me as a training dummy was enough,” Alburet chuckled.

“Well, that is in your favor. Most guys either want to prove they’re better than me or they just leave. You’re not doing either, which speaks to your favor.” Karen said, then seemed to fade out as she stealthed.

Alburet blinked then noticed the group of orcs with a single warg coming towards them, “Ah, well spotted.” Turning to Tiny he pointed to the group while applying the normal buffs to his minion, “You’re up, Tiny.”

It took them a little over an hour of running and fighting to get the spot Karen wanted. When they sat down to rest for a moment Alburet noticed his mail icon blinking at him.

Message from Gerald:

Hey Alburet, we would be glad to meet up for whatever you have in mind. Rather than me and Mary both sending you messages I’m sending for both of us. Let me know where and we’ll be there as quickly as we can.

Alburet glanced at the time stamp which showed as two minutes ago before he sent back his reply with the info attached. “Karen, two will be joining us. A tank and healer pair. I told them where we were, so they should be along in an hour or so.”

“Sounds good,” Karen replied leaning back slightly as she sat on the grass.

“Orcs coming,” Tiny rumbled as he waited for his buffs.

“Thank you, Tiny,” Alburet said, buffing up his meat shield, “off you go.”

Tiny charged the group as soon as Alburet said he was ready. As a group they focused the warg down first before cleaning up the orcs. Alburet was very unimpressed by the orcs. Sure, they were two levels below him, but he was sure he would have been able to handle the packs of them even without Karen.

“You’re doing a very good job Tiny, you’re making it so easy,” Alburet said as the group healed up after the fight.

“Thank you, master,” Tiny rumbled as he looked around for the next group.

“So I’m what, chopped rat livers?” Bob groused.

Chuckling, Alburet shook his head, “No, thank you too, Bob. You have to admit though, things are easier with Tiny around to take the brunt of the attacks.”

“Yeah, but that’s all he’s good for.” Bob said snidely, “All he will ever be good for, in fact. When I improve I get more utility, like a ranged area of effect spell. He gets a group taunt, but so what, it’s not all that useful.”

Tiny snorted, “The weak always act so big.”

Bob started to puff out his chest, “Don’t make me teach you a lesson, you overgrown…”

“Enough!” Alburet snapped. He glared at Bob then at Tiny, “You are both valued minions to me. Each of you performs a role that is vital to my success, so stop this back and forth. Do I make myself clear?”

“Yes master,” Tiny rumbled.

“But…” Bob began then shut up as Alburet glared at him, “Yes master.”

“Wow, just like a couple of kids, am I right?” Karen said with a shake of her head. “I had a pair of brothers in my last Judo class like that. I kicked them both out after the second class because they couldn’t behave.”

“I don’t deal with kids as a matter of course. The only one I had much contact with was my friend’s daughter, and she never behaved like that.” Alburet replied, his mind wandering back to Kaylee growing up.

“Something wrong?” Karen asked a touch of concern in her voice.

Shaking his head, Alburet banished his thoughts, “No just thinking of days gone by that won’t come again.”

“Next group coming,” Tiny rumbled, interrupting the conversation.

Alburet got to his feet, buffing Tiny again with the short term buffs. “I wonder if I get the option to extend the duration of the buffs later?” He wondered aloud as he finished buffing Tiny, “Good to go.”

Tiny roared and stepped out to meet the orc patrol. As the group died Alburet noted that even with all the bickering, Bob did his job and didn’t try to pull aggro. After they looted the mobs, he turned to Bob. “Bob, I do want to thank you as well. Even with the issue a moment ago you’re still doing everything right and not causing problems by trying to pull them off Tiny.”

“You would be unhappy if I did, which means I might be sent away for a time. I don’t want that. All I want to do is kill your enemies for you,” Bob said plainly with a shrug. “Thank you for the kindness though, master.”

Your standing with Bob has improved, you are now Respected by Bob.

Bob receives a 50% bonus stats and damage due to his happiness.

Alburet blinked then chuckled, “Bob, you really are awesome.” Karen looked puzzled so Alburet explained his chuckle to her. “Bob is now happy enough with me to view me with respect, which means he gets bonus stats and damage.”

“Ah, so that’s how minion happiness works,” Karen said. “I wondered about that. I grouped with a Summoner during the beta who was always complaining that his pet wasn’t doing as much as it should. I guess he probably had negative happiness with his minion.”

“Probably. Minion happiness is influenced by their loyalty. Bob and Tiny are the most loyal minions I could have chosen. The tradeoff was that they were the weakest stat wise. However, they gain happiness faster and lose happiness slower than the others would have. All in all, my minions are the best ones in the world.”

Your standing with Tiny has improved, you are now Respected by Tiny.

Tiny receives a 50% bonus to stats and health due to his happiness.

Alburet laughed, “You’re the best meat shield I could have chosen, Tiny.” Turning to Karen he went on, “Apparently my little speech was enough to bump Tiny up to Respected as well.”

“You should really put that info up on the forums. Maybe that way people will stop thinking your class is so weak.”

“Naw, they can figure it out on their own. I always thought the best part of games was figuring things out.” Alburet stopped and considered just how fast Tiny had caught Bob in happiness, after a moment of thought he put it down to how much fighting they had been doing.

“Any idea how long until we see the action we’re here for?”

“Nope. That single tree over there should be the rendezvous point. Both Orc and Goblin Messengers are known to stop at it periodically. So, now we just have to wait. Your friends are on the way anyhow, don’t want them to miss out.”

“Point. We have been waiting a bit so they should be well on their way,” Alburet said, grabbing his Mindstone and tossing Marysue a message to see if she had any idea how much longer they would be. A minute later he got a reply and informed Karen, “They should be here in half an hour or so. They’re crossing the grasslands now, I bet we’ll be able to see them in fifteen minutes or so.”

“That’s good…” Karen start to reply but got cut off by Tiny’s rumbling voice.

“Next pack is coming,” Tiny rumbled.

Alburet chuckled as he buffed Tiny up again, this was the best kind of grinding he enjoyed. The nice easy packs that came to you one at a time with a decent break between, “Back to the grindstone.”

The pack was put down with minimal difficulties, only Tiny taking any damage as was normal. Karen stretched and sighed, “This is boring. If it wasn’t for this quest I would say let’s jump a bit and try something dangerous.”

“We can always do that after we’re done here,” Alburet said, looking back the way they had come and seeing a group killing Orcs. “I think those are the two I told you about.”

Karen looked where he pointed and nodded, “Could be. Well once they get here hopefully it won’t be long until the messengers show up. After that we have a few hours before the rare shows up.”

Ten minutes later Marysue and Gerald came running up. Gerald spoke up first, “Hey, Alburet. I wondered what quest you were doing and when you told me to meet you here I hoped it was the messenger quest chain.”

“It is, Gerald,” Alburet said, then made introductions all around. Karen added them to the group as Tiny called out another group of Orcs inbound. “Tiny, take the warg and one orc. Gerald can tank the other two orcs.” He then slapped buffs onto the tanks as the mobs got closer.

It was over quickly. Gerald looked disappointed, “That was just sad. Why were you holding back, Alburet?”

Alburet held out his maul, “I pull aggro if I don’t.”

Gerald blinked after tapping the weapon, “What the fuck? You can’t use that at this level. Hell, I can’t use that at this level.”

“My gloves have a bit of a cheat to them, I can use any weapon regardless of strength required.” Alburet shrugged, “Just one of them things.”

“It is good to see you again, Alburet,” Marysue interrupted. “Have you seen Fluffball lately?”

“Naw, she took a few days off I think.”

“Oh, that’s too bad. I was hoping to group with her again.”

“I think she said she’ll be on tomorrow if I got the days right. I was hoping she would make it for the quest as it means good loot.”

“Master, I see two larger groups moving towards the tree,” Tiny rumbled to them.

“Good timing, you two,” Karen chuckled. “Those are the groups we’re waiting for. We need to kill them all. After that we’ve got a two hour wait before the rare shows up to investigate.”

“Okay. Once they meet up Tiny will tank the goblins, Gerald tanks the orcs. DPS burns the orcs first and then the goblins?” Alburet said looking at the two groups, each numbering ten strong.

“It’s going to be a bit messy, but yeah that would be best,” Gerald said.

“I have a mana potion so I’ll be able to keep the heals going,” Marysue stated.

“Alright. That’s the plan,” Alburet said. “We have a bit of a walk to get to them, so once they meet up we’ll run to them and start things off. Once we’re there I’ll buff first since I need to wait to damage them anyway.” In agreement, the group watched the two packs of mobs come together then set off toward them at a run with Tiny and Gerald leading the way.

They got to within a dozen yards before the mobs seem to realize they were there, so intent were they on talking. Alburet cast his buffs onto Tiny, once those were in place Tiny charged into the ten goblins with fervor. As Gerald engaged the Orcs Alburet slid in behind him and applied the two buffs he could. Once he had buffs in place he targeted the Goblin Shieldbearers and cast Sap Strength on them to make them lose the shields. He did the same to the one orc with a shield, but it didn’t drop it. Shrugging, he hefted his maul and stepped into the fray. As planned, Tiny had the full attention of all the goblins and Gerald all the orcs. Demonic Retribution kept them fixated on Gerald.

Karen picked out the caster and appeared behind him, her backstab taking away a good chunk of its life. Gerald didn’t have good aggro on it, yet, so it turned to face the Assassin. Alburet, seeing the orc turn, joined in and hit it with the maul to the back of the head. The critical took off over four hundred health and almost killed it. Karen’s next attack dropped it dead.

“No more caster,” Karen chuckled, joining in one the mob Gerald was attacking.

Bob spoke up, “Master, Tiny could use a hand with his caster.”

Alburet dodged over to the goblin group and with three hits killed the caster there before rebuffing Tiny with Demonic Vitality. Then he stepped back over to the orc group and set about damaging them. The fight, while long, wasn’t exactly hard with Marysue there to keep Gerald healed. The only one who came close to dying was Tiny before Gerald was able to AoE taunt the goblins off of him. Once they were all dead, the group looted up and recovered health and mana.

Quest Completed: Stop the Goblins and Orcs meeting in the southern province

Receive: Twenty gold and increased reputation with all Stormguard Guard factions.

Return to the Commander to receive the coins.

“Not hard, just long,” Gerald laughed. “Your minions are way more useful than people give them credit for. Thanks for inviting us. We also got credit for the quest. Oh and ding, I leveled.”

“Me too,” Marysue chimed in, “level fourteen now.

“Grats you two on the level. As for my minions, it’s because I have a good relationship with them,” Alburet replied. “Bob and Tiny both view me with Respect which means 50% increases to their stats and main utility, damage for Bob and health for Tiny.”

“Oh, is that how that works?” Marysue chimed in. “I’ll let my friend know. He was having issues with his demons and just became an Angelic Summoner instead.”

Bob sneered, “Fracking halo wearing assholes that they are.” The whole group turned to look at Bob in surprise. “Seriously, why can’t they just let beings do what they want? No, it’s always do this or don’t do that. Fracking hate those Angelic assholes.”

“Don’t hold back Bob, tell us how you really feel,” Karen piped up with a grin.

“Belay that order,” Alburet interjected, shaking his head. “I won’t be switching teams, Bob, so you’re safe with me.”

Tiny rumbled, “I’m glad.”

“Anyway, we going to just roam and kill stuff for the next few hours while we wait for the rare?” Gerald asked.

Everyone agreed that this sounded like a good idea. The group started roaming the grasslands, killing every group they encountered for the next hour and a half before coming back to where they could keep an eye on the tree.

Death Tracker Grugh

The group killed another two patrols while they waited for the rare to show. The conversation between packs was all about comparing Alpha World to previous MMORPGs and how the abilities were similar or different. Alburet was about to expand on how the Summoner class was different from other games when he noticed a very large orc suddenly appear by the tree. He focused on it and got a name and level for it; Death Tracker Grugh, level 20. He blinked at the insane amount of hit points it had, 4000/4000.

“Hey Karen, is this the guy?” Alburet asked.

Karen turned and her ever present smile blossomed, “Yes, that’s him.”

“Oh, good. They still have him named the same and everything,” Gerald added. “Double the old hit points, though.”

“Anything special we should know?” Alburet queried as he started to buff Tiny.

“He’ll stun the tank for five seconds at a time, so have Tiny ready to taunt him when I get stunned. I’ll taunt back when Tiny gets stunned, that way we can keep him on a tank and not going after the healer. He also throws knives that cause a bleed effect. The debuff stacks, so it can get nasty if the fight drags on.” Gerald said as Alburet started to buff him, “Other than that standard tank and spank fight, unless they tweaked him.”

Karen vanished after taking a step towards the tree, “See you all there.”

Alburet grunted, “We’re ready, let’s go. Tiny, you heard the man. Follow the plan.”

Gerald and Tiny took off ahead of the others, so they’d be the ones to gain initial aggro. Grugh looked up at them as they closed the distance and a flurry of knives came at them. Each of them took a hit that placed a stack of the bleeding debuff, causing 5 health to be lost every five seconds. Gerald grunted as the knife grazed his cheek, just barely too slow getting his shield up to block it.

As Tiny and Gerald swung for the first time, Grugh Howled in anger and slammed his foot into the ground. A shock wave pushed them all back a few feet and knocked Alburet, Marysue and Bob to their knees. As they got back up, Gerald started his attack, gaining the main focus of the boss. Grugh put his back to the tree, preventing the group from surrounding him. Karen appeared from above and slightly to the side, dropping from a branch to plunge her daggers into the orc.

Alburet refreshed Demonic Vitality on Gerald then cast Sap Strength on Grugh as he waited to join into the fray. Bob was cackling happily as his Fire Blasts kept striking the orc in the feet, the leather boots providing less protection than the mail Grugh wore elsewhere. Just before Alburet plunged into the fray another explosion of knives flew out from Grugh, nicking all of them again and doubling the bleed damage to 10 every five seconds.

Stepping into the melee, Alburet noted that Grugh used his two short swords to attack and defend equally well. Grugh hadn’t really perceived him as a threat yet, so didn’t try to block the first swing from the maul, only swaying slightly to take it on the shoulder instead of the head. When the maul impacted and tore away close to 200 health, Grugh growled loudly. One fist lashed out, slamming into Gerald’s jaw stunning him for five seconds.

As soon as the hit landed Tiny roared, taunting Grugh to focus on him as the primary threat. It worked, but Grugh sent out another shock wave which pushed Karen and Alburet back and dropped them to their knees. That gave Grugh an opening to strike at Tiny with one blade while slashing Gerald with the other. Alburet flinched in sympathy as the blade gashed Gerald on the neck, which was a definite critical. Marysue gasped and a bright light flared around Gerald a bare fraction of a second later.

“That was my big instant heal, it’s on cool down for the next two minutes.” Marysue told them as Gerald regained his lost hit points.

Alburet and Karen got back into the fight as Gerald shook off the stun and started attacking again, too. Alburet swung his maul again, only to have Grugh parry the swing past him and into the tree which shuddered under the blow. “Fucker learns fast,” Alburet said as he stepped back to regain his balance. Alburet checked the health of Grugh, to find it still at 3346/4000 and sighed. This fight was going to take time. It occurred to him that both the bleed attack from the knives and the stun used Grugh's hands.

Alburet felt a smile cross his face as he considered a radical option. “Tiny, Gerald, I have a really fucked up plan but I think it will work,” Another explosion of knives erupted from Grugh as the Orc’s hands blurred. Another stack of the bleeding debuff stacked onto all of them, taking them to fifteen health lost every five seconds. “Stop trying to attack him and pin his arms. Take a hit if you need to to do it, otherwise he might not be able to finish him before we all bleed out.”

Gerald shook his head, “That’s stupid…”

Tiny grunted as he dropped his shield and axe, lunging in to grab Grugh’s left arm with both of his. Grugh’s sword scored a deep cut across Tiny’s chest in return, but Tiny held the arm firmly. “Got him Master,” Tiny grunted as Alburet ducked around behind Tiny to hit him with Demonic Vitality.

Gerald cussed, but also dropped his sword and shield before grabbing at Grugh’s other arm. Grugh managed to cut Gerald across the hip before Gerald managed to corral the second arm and hold on. “Why are we doing this?” Gerald called out, annoyed at this change of plans.

“Because now he can’t stun you and the shockwave doesn’t knock you guys down,” Alburet called out as he stepped in between the two holding Grugh, smiling wickedly. The maul went back, coming down on top of the Grugh’s head for a critical hit that took a little over 400 health away. “Now that’s what I’m talking about,” Alburet laughed.

“That is so fucking wrong,” Karen laughed as she knelt down and stabbed at Grugh’s knees. “You think the Devs considered people doing this?”

“Maybe, but probably not,” Gerald grunted. “In previous VR games we didn’t have the full immersion we have here, which is what’s letting us do this.”

Alburet kept pulling back and taking chunks from Grugh, who eventually did his special attack knocking him and Karen back and down. However, since he didn’t have his arms free he couldn’t stack any more bleeds or stun his attackers. The fight went much more easily than it should and Grugh dropped quickly. A minute later the bleeds wore off with no one dropping under half thanks to Marysue’s healing. Both Karen and Alburet leveled when Grugh died, to congratulations from the others.

“Well, that was certainly a little lackluster once he was pinned.” Karen laughed as she touched the body to bring up the loot. “Oh, some nice stuff here, too.” She set the loot out before them so they could all see what there was. “I want the boots,” Karen said quickly, “they give a boost to stealth which is how he just suddenly appeared.”

The others agreed that was the best for her and didn’t object as she took them. Marysue ended up with a chainmail coif that gave a bonus to intelligence and wisdom. Gerald took the shield that let him cancel a single negative effect on him once every five minutes. Alburet ended up with a two handed axe that was better than the maul he had been using, but like his maul had no other stats.

“This will be nice once the maul breaks. Thanks to the assassin its durability has really taken a hit.” Alburet said, putting the axe into his bag. He did note the ten gold he also had suddenly acquired when the orc died. “So that’s that, then.”

“That was way better than I thought it was going to be. Thanks for coming you two.” Karen said to Gerald and Marysue, “Want to trade info so we can group up again sometime?”

The three of them tapped Mindstones before Gerald and Marysue dropped the group and vanished, both of them citing real life things to do.

“Well, that was fun. Any other plans for the night?” Alburet asked.

“Yes, but I need a break for a few hours,” Karen said, her customary smirk back in place. “Don’t forget to see the commander for your gold. Where would you like to meet in Stormguard later to celebrate our success?”

“I’ve been over at the Dead Man Inn, good food there,” Alburet replied. “I need to see about another set of clothes as well, that assassin really fucked up my gear by killing me three times.”

“Okay, so meet up at the inn in three hours?”

“Works. See you there, Karen.”

Karen nodded, pulling her Homestone and using it. Alburet turned to Tiny and Bob, “Okay, take a break guys. I’m going to head back to Stormguard.” He pulled out his Homestone as the demons vanished.

Once he appeared in the graveyard, Alburet opened up his character screen to apply his stat points. When that was done he checked what spell he received at level thirteen, which turned out to be Demonic Retribution rank 2. Alburet read over the updated spell, seeing that the damage had doubled to 10 and the mana cost to cast was increased to 50. It still only lasted five minutes. Shrugging, mildly nonplussed only getting an upgraded spell rather than a new one, he wandered off to sell the stuff he’d looted during the day.

As he walked it struck him again how alive the city was, with people moving about going about personal business. He had to dodge around a pair of old women who suddenly stopped in front of him to start talking about their grandkids. His sudden swerve caused both of them to eye him warily, but he only grinned at them as he kept on going. In a good mood he reached the leather shop, Tanned Hides, the small bell attached to the door announcing his entry.

He heard the owner, Almira Smoothskin, arguing with a customer over the price of a hardened leather chest piece. “I’m telling you, that is the final price. If you don’t like it take your business elsewhere. I would tell you to try making a piece like this yourself but you two-souled can’t craft anything.”

The customer sneered at Almira, “Uppity fuckin’ elf bitch, maybe someone should teach you that the customer is always right.” The customer tossed her blonde hair back over her shoulder as the condescending words cascaded from her lips. “You won’t make any money from me or my friends once I tell them about your shitty service, fucking NPC.” The player stormed out of the shop, leaving the door open as she went.

Alburet calmly shut the door, shaking his head in exasperation at how people acted even in a game. Turning, he saw that Almira was looking at him with a stern gaze, as if to ask if he was going to start as well. A small smile quirked his lips as he gave her a small bow, “I promise I am much more civil, Miss Smoothskin. I have just come to sell off some of this loot I’ve picked up today.”

Almira sighed softly, nodding, “Of course. I’m glad the crown pays us for doing this, otherwise I would be turning people away. You two-souled are very industrious when it comes to killing monsters in the wilds.”

“And some of us even know how to speak properly,” Alburet chuckled, “or at least, politely.” He began to lay out the leather he’d looted, setting aside a few pieces. Once he had all the leather out he took those pieces he set aside and equipped them. It wasn’t better than his Demon Skin, but he could wear it without giving away his relation to Demons. “Okay, all of this here is what I’d like to sell.”

Almira took her time checking the loot before nodding, “I’ll take it. I’m curious why you didn’t equip some of it out in the field.”

Alburet looked away before replying, “I have an ability that hardens my skin to equal to this, but it lowers my ability to interact with people.”

One of Almira’s eyebrows went up, “Summoner?”

Shrugging, Alburet nodded, “I understand if you do not want me back in the shop.”

Pursing her lips, Almira sighed, “I don't discriminate based on vocation and you haven’t struck me as a bad person. So for now I will continue to treat you as a valued customer. The customer who just left was a Paladin, for frack’s sake and she was way less pleasant than you’ve been.”

Chuckling Alburet replied, “Yeah a lot of us are self-absorbed, sadly. I thank you for treating me fairly. Goodness knows many don’t, including among the city guards.”

Almira held out several gold coins, “Six gold for the lot.”

Taking the coin, he thanked her before heading to the chain armor shop to sell off mail armor. He went to Grimgar’s last with a bounce to his step as he entered. The small bell jingled, announcing him, which brought Grimgar from the back of the shop.

“Afternoon, Grimgar,” Alburet greeted the owner as he went to the counter and began to unload weapons. “How’s business today?”

“Welcome back, lad. Business be fine,” Grimgar replied as he checked the weapons Alburet was laying out on the counter. “Seems ye been busy, eh?”

“Orc slaying for the most part. Need to go see a tailor after this, my clothes have taken a beating.”

“It does me glad to see ye wearin’ some armor at least,” Grimgar said, counting out gold. “I can give ye eight gold for the lot. How is the maul workin’ out?”

“I’ll take it,” Alburet replied. “It was wonderful. Unfortunately the durability has taken a huge hit. I got killed three times by an assassin which really did a number on it.”

“Aich, why be ye messin’ with that ugly lot?”

“Wasn’t my plan, but I pissed off a minor noble house and they got their panties in a twist. So they decided having me killed three times was the answer. It’s over now. I plan to look into why the kid I pissed off thought three times was the magic number.”

Shaking his head, Grimgar sighed, “Aich, iffen it was a young noble than ye might never find out as most o’ them be without reason at all.”

Laughing, Alburet put the gold away before turning to the door, “Right you are Grimgar. See you later.”

“Aye lad, be safe and try not to run afoul of them assassins again, eh?”

Stepping out into the street, Alburet paused to soak in the sights. He was still impressed by how alive the game was. The NPCs acted like people would in real life, from those who were simply going about the business of day to day life to the shop owners. He smiled as he watched a brother and sister playing tag around a put upon looking woman who was probably their mother. He set off to the tailor to see about new clothes and to check on the set Mrs. Wilson, the tailor, was making for him.

Alburet entered Silken Needles, smiling at the simple jingle bells that announced people entering shops. Margret was behind the counter. She looked up with a polite smile on her face that widened when she saw it was him. “Welcome back, Alburet. Your clothes should be done tomorrow.”

Returning the smile, Alburet nodded, “My thanks, but what I came for right now is to see about another set of clothes for day to day wear. These have done me well but sadly they’ve taken a rather severe beating over the last few days. Do you have anything you can alter for me?”

Lips compressing slightly, Margret frowned, “My clothes should have held up better than that.”

Sighing, Alburet explained his encounters with the assassin much to Margret's shock. “My goodness, that would of course account for the excessive wear on the clothing. Are you sure it’s safe for you now?”

“The assassin was kind enough to assure me that three was the number to be met and he did ensure my death thrice, so hopefully. Can you do what I am asking of you?”

“Of course. A full set will cost fifty silver. I can have them ready in an hour or I can have them delivered to someplace in the city for you.”

“Wonderful. Would you have them dropped off at the Dead Man Inn for me, please?”

Her smile vanished and her lips thinned, “You’re with them?”

Blinking for a moment Alburet felt a loss before he nodded, “Yes. If this is a problem, I can take my business elsewhere if you wish me to, Mrs. Wilson.”

She paused, eyeing him then asked, “Necromancer or Summoner?”

“Summoner,” Alburet replied with a blank face.

Closing her eyes Margret, took a deep breath before she opened them to meet his. “Do you promise to never oppose the empire?”

Tilting his head slightly in bewilderment, Alburet nodded, “I have no intention to do so. I can't promise something so broadly, though. If the empire for some reason aims harm at me or those I care for I would have to respond.”

“I understand and would not ask someone to stand aside while a loved one is being targeted. You must understand why your kind is so despised.”

“I don't, but I will make it a point to find out.”

“Very well. It will cost another ten silver to have your clothes delivered to the inn tonight. If you make it twenty I will have the other set delivered tomorrow as well.”

Alburet placed a single gold on the counter, meeting her gaze steadily. He could see an old pain in her eyes, “I thank you, Mrs. Wilson.” He noticed she reacted slightly when he used Mrs. “I thank you for treating me fairly and with the kindness you have. If I can do anything for you or your family someday, I will do my best to show you that not all of my profession are evil.” He stepped back from the counter bowing to her formally, then turned and walked out of the shop feeling her eyes on his back.

Once on the street again he paused, looking through the people who moved past him. He wondered what exactly had happened in the past that caused Necromancers and Summoners to be treated as they were. Something to ask Stewart he decided before heading off towards the portal guild.

When he reached the portal guild the receptionists were changing shift as the sun was beginning to set. The one who had been kind to him smiled warmly, “Welcome back, sir. I'm going off shift right now but my coworker will be more than happy to help you.”

The second receptionist eyed him coolly, “This is the one you were talking about, Kim? He is far from what I would call a gentleman.”

Kim blinked, “What? He has been very polite and has been one of the few who’s been tipping us regularly.”

A gentle cough came from Alburet, “She is referring to the fact that a friend of mine along with myself were being inappropriate when she was on shift the other day.” He turned to face the second woman directly and gave her a deep bow, “I apologize.”

“Whatever, where are you going?” The second one said dismissively.

“Stormguard fort near the goblin fort, please,” he dropped two gold on the desk.

She took the coins before replying, her voice still frosty, “Have a seat.”

Alburet turned to go to the waiting area to find Kim walking along beside him. “Can I help you Kim?”

“I was wondering exactly what you did to twist Francine's knickers like that?” Kim's eyes flashed with humor.

Alburet took a seat in the waiting area and explained the antics he and Karen had gotten up too. By the time he was finished Kim was chortling. “No wonder she’s all upset. Her family is very prim and proper, so of course she acts that way as well. She’ll get over it after a bit. I wish you luck with your journeys tonight.” She stood and with a parting smile walked out the doors.

Alburet watched her go, then the same old portal mage that had been working with Francine the other day approached him. “Your portal is ready, sir,” the old man spoke in a neutral tone.

Alburet followed the mage, ignoring the glare from Francine as he went by. He tipped the mage a gold before stepping on the rune that teleported him to the fort.

Appearing right outside the gates, he walked into the fort nodding to the men who greeted him. As he approached Sergeant Jasper he noted the Sergeant was talking with another player who promptly ran off. Alburet greeted the sergeant with a salute.

“Are you back to speak with the Commander, Alburet?” Jasper asked after returning the greeting.

“Yeah, that was the idea,” Alburet replied.

Jasper asked the Quartermaster to watch his desk for a minute. Leading Alburet up the stairs Jasper asked, “So what happened to your partner?”

“She had some stuff to do for a bit. I’ll be meeting back up with her later tonight to celebrate our victory over the goblins and orcs.”

“I wish you luck,” Jasper said as he knocked, then ushered Alburet into the Commander's room. “Sir, Alburet has returned with word.”

“Very good, sergeant. You are dismissed.” The Commander said, giving Jasper a salute. Once Jasper left the Commander turned to Alburet, “Report.”

It took only a few minutes for Alburet to get the Commander caught up on the ambush and the death of Death Tracker Grugh.

“Very good,” the Commander said, pushing a parchment across the desk. “Take that to the quartermaster. You’ve done the Empire a service by stopping the two races from joining forces. Well done.”

You are now Friendly to all Stormguard Guard Factions

Alburet picked up the parchment with a smile and saluted the Commander, “Thank you, sir.”

The Commander returned the salute before dismissing Alburet, who gratefully left the room. He wandered down to the main room to find Private Jenkins speaking with Jasper. Jenkins moved over to intercept Alburet.

“A moment, if you don't mind, sir,” Jenkins said.

Alburet stopped with a single raised brow, “Yes?”

Bowing his head, Jenkins spoke softly but with conviction. “I wish to apologize for my actions when we last met. I let my prejudices and emotions get the better of me.”

A small smile flitted across Alburet's face as he thought back to a young guard he used to work with who was much the same as Jenkins. When he replied, his tone was level, “I accept and hold you no ill will, Jenkins. Part of being human is making mistakes. The key is to learn from them.”

Jenkins raised his head to meet Alburet's eyes, seeing acceptance and respect, “Thank you, sir.” With that, Jenkins left.

Jasper cleared his throat, “You know, you are pretty unusual, Alburet. Only a handful of other two-souled have been as considerate as you.”

“I believe tomorrow will bring many, many more of my kind to the world. I wish you the best in dealing with them. Most will be like spoiled children.”

“I do not doubt,” Jasper chuckled, “well, don't let me keep you from your celebration.”

“See you around, Sarge,” Alburet replied before going over to the quartermaster and showing him the parchment from the commander.

The quartermaster nodded handing him twenty gold. “Let your fellows know that they just need to speak with me to claim their reward, please.”

“Will do,” Alburet replied before quickly using his Mindstone to let the others know. He then used his Homestone to go back to Stormguard.

Once back in the city he turned towards the Dead Man Inn with a smile. He entered the building to see the place was starting to fill up with the evening crowd. Behind the bar was the owner, so Alburet went over and dropped six gold on the counter which got his attention.

“I owed you five for the deal from this morning and the other is for a very good meal for three to be delivered to my room in an hour or so. Stacia will retrieve it for me.”

Lips pursed slightly, the owner nodded, “Aye, it will be done. Stewart was wantin' to speak with ya when ya got back.”

“That works, I needed to speak with him, too. Where is he?”

“Downstairs. Ya know the way, right?”

“I remember it,” Alburet replied, taking the path down into the earth to see Stewart.

After the trek down to the catacombs Alburet looked around, getting a better look at all the people down here. He saw four different Summoners and six different Necromancers, judging by the paraphernalia on the desks that dotted the cavern. At least each race was represented for each class, with Necromancers having two extra humans.

Alburet walked to the back area where Stewart sat leaned back in his chair, his feet up and a book in hand. As he approached, Stewart glanced up with a thoughtful expression. “Greetings, Alburet. Glad you could make it.”

“Evening, Stewart. A quick question, what is the name of the owner of the inn? I just never seem to remember to ask him.”

“Alistern Crowley is the owner of the Dead Man Inn. Have a seat. We should talk about a few things.” Stewart let his chair drop forward as he grabbed two goblets and filled them with wine.

Taking a seat, Alburet accepted a goblet, “I do have a question I would like answered, so do you want to tackle that first or these other subjects?”

“What is the question?”

“Why are Necromancers and Summoners so despised?”

“It goes back to the first empire. During the reign of Maximus the Just a Necromancer known as Franklin Stein started an uprising. He gathered to him many Necromancers and demonic Summoners who felt as he did. The strife started by Stein lasted for twenty years. It wiped whole towns from the empire as the plague of undead and demons summoned by their masters overran the countryside.” Stewart paused to sip his wine, “Stein was caught and imprisoned in the strongest prison the empire had built, Alctriuz. The prison suffered some calamity that is lost in legend. All that is known is that the place seemed to vanish.”

“It wasn't until the rise of Maximus the Lightbringer, the fourth Emperor, that the rebellion was brought to an end. For the next four hundred years Necromancy and Summoning were capital crimes. Doing either resulted in a death sentence for the practitioner. Two hundred years ago the empire relaxed the law when a pair of adventurers saved the then Emperor from a dragon attack. Those two were Necromancer Steinberg and Summoner Yuna. So, we come to today where the practicing of those paths is frowned upon by many but as long as no undead or demons are summoned inside the city it is tolerated.”

“So it's a deep rooted prejudice,” Alburet sighed, “oh, well.”

“Yes it is, but we can rise in society even with this stigma associated with us. One of the major houses has been focused on demonic summoning for generations. Now that I've answered your question, how about we talk about the things I wanted to discuss?” Stewart smiled tightly as he poured himself some more wine.

Shrugging, Alburet sipped at the dry red wine gingerly. He wasn't big on wine but didn't want to offend Stewart. “Okay, what did you want to talk about?”

“Tell me about the assassin and how that came about first, please,” Stewart settled back in his chair, listening attentively.

Alburet gave Stewart a quick rundown of the events that led up to the assassin attacking him. “So that is the reason, I'm sure, but I still don't understand his motive.”

Stewart face palmed, sighing, “Wilbur is the younger son of Gilden House. Younger by five minutes. His twin brother is Skippy. Skippy is a piece of work. They couldn't be more different if they tried.”

“Wait, so Wilbur hired an assassin because I called him Skippy?”

“No, Skippy probably hired the assassin for that reason. You see, Skippy Gilden is trying to raise his standing in the royal court, but he hates his brother who he thinks is dragging down the family name by being a guard.”

“Ick, politics,” Alburet shuddered, “okay, so I guess that answers that question. I should be going, I should have a friend showing up for dinner soon.”

“Wait a moment, please.” Stewart sat forward, pinning Alburet with his eyes. “Tell me your intentions with Stacia.”

“Huh?”

“Regarding Stacia. I've been told you’ve hired her as a personal maid for the next few weeks. Is that just so you can have a companion at night or is it for different reasons?”

Brow furrowing in confusion, Alburet stood up, “I don't see how it is your concern when her own father okayed it. But to keep our relationship friendly I will say that at the moment it is because she asked me to request it. I'm not averse to the fact that she fucks like a mink and seems to want it.”

Stewart stood up, meeting Alburet’s angry gaze with a level one in return, “I am her godfather, funny as that sounds considering my vocation. I worry about her. Treat her with respect and as she wishes and there will be no issue.”

“I have never treated a woman in a way she objected to. So if that is all?” Alburet stated and at Stewart's nod he stepped onto the rune which transported him to the graveyard outside.

Alburet paused as the night air caressed his face. Shaking his head to clear it, Alburet turned to re-enter the inn just as his message icon lit up.

Message from Karen:

Hey there, be along in a few. Just picking up my coin from the fort then I'll meet you at the inn.

Alburet sent a quick response then entered the inn with a grin on his face as he thought of all the possible fun that might be coming his way soon.

Alburet

Human Summoner

Level 13

Strength: 18

Agility: 18

Constitution: 25

Intelligence: 39

Wisdom: 43

Charisma: 30

Health: 900

Mana: 1080

Spells:

Demon Skin-Rank 2

Demonic Retribution- Rank 2

Summon Least Imp

Fire Blast

Sap Strength

Demonic Haze

Summon Lesser Destroyer

Demonic Vitality

Fire Burst

Abilities:

Personal Spells

Flame Weapon

Celebration

The inn was even busier when Alburet walked in the second time. Making his way to the bar, he got Alistern's attention, “My guest is arriving shortly. Is there any chance the food can be ready sooner?”

Alistern nodded, “Of course, it shall be ready when ya require it.”

Alburet thanked him then made his way up to his room. When he opened the door Stacia was seated at the table. Two cups and a teapot sat on the table. When the door opened she looked over, seeing it was him she stood with a brilliant smile.

“Welcome back, sir,” she curtsied. She was wearing a different outfit than he’d seen her in so far. This one was a nearly standard french maid outfit. The neckline was a touch higher and the skirt a few inches longer than he was used to seeing on that kind of outfit. All in all it held the sexy maid vibe while also giving the impression that she was actually a maid, not a sex toy.

The curtsy still gave him an ample eyeful of her bust though, which brought a smile to his own lips. “Evening, Stacia. We shall be having company soon. One of the people who has been adventuring with me is going to be here to celebrate the quest line we completed today. I ordered a meal for three from the kitchen. Once my guest arrives I would like you to retrieve it for us. I want you to treat them with the utmost respect, please.”

Stacia's brow furrowed for a moment as he mentioned company, but cleared upon hearing that it was a celebration. She curtsied again, “As sir wishes, so shall it be. Ya should sit and relax until ya company gets here.” She picked up the pot, pouring a cup of tea for him.

Alburet sat down and sipped the barley tea with a pleased sigh. “Very good, Stacia.” He twitched slightly as her hands touched his shoulders, but soon relaxed as he felt her begin to massage his muscles.

“Just relax from ya long day sir. I will take very good care of ya.” Stacia said in a whisper right next to his ear, her voice like silk. “What is the name of ya guest, sir?”

Sipping the tea while relaxing under her hands he replied, “Karen. She’s a skilled Assassin.”

Stacia's hands paused briefly on hearing the obviously feminine name. “I see, sir. Other then dinner did ya have other plans that require me for the evenin'?” Her voice become very businesslike, losing the silken edge.

“Actually, yes. I’m looking forward to a massage later. Considering that I told Karen how good you are at giving them, she would probably like one as well. Is this a problem?” The last four words come out with a bit of fire in them, as he tilted his head back to meet her eyes.

Stacia met his gaze, shivering at the sheer force she saw there. She dropped her eyes, her head bending slightly forward so her hair covered her face. She spoke very softly,” No, sir. Anything ya want I will be given to ya if ya ask.”

Alburet reached out and gently touched her cheek, brushing back her hair, “Good girl. If you do a really good job I promise you any one reward you want later.”

She tilted her head into his hand, looking at him eagerly, “Anythin' sir?”

Lips quirking up into a smirk at her sudden change, he chuckled, “Oh, so you do want something from me after all. I can't promise anything, but if I reject your first request you can keep asking until I find one I can grant.”

She turned her head a touch further and kissed his wrist, “I will do me best, sir,”

A knock sounded at the door and Stacia went to answer it, smoothing her outfit as she went. As she opened the door, Alburet saw Karen standing there in a black dress that flattered her small figure.

“Welcome to Alburet's room. Be ya Karen?” Stacia asked her, eyes flickering over the small woman as a smile formed on her face.

Karen looked at Stacia with a raised brow, glancing at Alburet briefly before addressing Stacia. “Yes, I’m Karen. Who might you be?”

“My name be Stacia. I be Alburet's personal maid while he stays with us here. Please, come in and be welcomed as the sir desires.” She ushered Karen into the room.

Alburet got to his feet as Karen entered, bowing to her. “Good to see you again, Karen. You look amazing in that dress. Please come in and have some tea, dinner will be along shortly.” He pulled a chair out for her.

Lips quirked in an expression he couldn't read Karen nodded, taking the offered seat as he pushed her chair in for her. He was about to pour her a cup of tea but Stacia had come back to the table by then and was doing it already, so he took his seat again.

“I'll be back in a few minutes with the food, sir,” Stacia said, curtsying.

“So, a personal maid?” Karen asked as Stacia left the room.

“It kind of happened, yeah,” Alburet chuckled slightly, feeling a touch nervous for some reason.

“Just had to keep her close after the massage, right?”

“Actually, she asked for the arrangement,” he replied. “Having a personal maid was eight times as expensive as the room for the month. If you're up for it after dinner though I can have her rub you down.”

A small laugh escaped Karen as she shook her head, “You just want me naked in your room.”

“Well, that is part of it. Also, watching her rubbing you down does have an appeal to me.” Alburet said with a chuckle, deciding he might as well be completely honest with her. “It’s your choice, of course. We could also make use of the baths in the building. If you haven't had a bath in game yet you should try it at least once.”

“So you want me naked, wet and in easy reach?” Her eyes were sparkling with laughter.

He was about to reply when he caught the hint of heat in her eyes. He let his smile broaden, “It has a very firm appeal to me, I won't deny it.”

Karen was about to reply when the door opened, admitting Stacia along with one of her sisters carrying two trays each. Stacia’s youngest sister followed with two bottles and three goblets in hand. The trio of sisters quickly set the table, then the other two left leaving Stacia in the room.

“Dinner is ready sir,” Stacia said, removing the covers from the platters. Before them sat steaming bowls of stew and two loaves of bread. “Tonight ya be havin' the best stew in the inn, me Ma's special recipe. The drink be a good wine that will complement the stew.” She opened one of the bottles and poured wine into two goblets before stepping back.

Shaking his head Alburet, turned to her and pointed at a chair, “You will be joining us, Stacia. Why do you think I had a meal for three prepared?”

Stacia stood her ground, refusing to look at him, “It would nay be right.”

“I do not care one whit, sit and eat with us. That is an order.” His voice became steel as he spoke.

Slowly she came forward and sat down, pouring herself some wine. Her voice was meek, “As ya wish it, sir.”

“Wow, you do have a firm side,” Karen murmured. “I think tonight is going to be more fun than I’d thought.”

Glancing at her, Alburet raised a brow, “Oh? Do you like a man who can take control, then?”

“Only if they prove they can tame me,” Karen replied with a smirk, “I recall you failing at that a lot today.”

Absently rubbing at one of the spots where she’d bruised him during the sparring earlier, he nodded once, “True, but I did manage it once.”

Conversation faded as they dug into the stew. Alburet's eyes widened as the flavor permeated his mouth. It held a touch of sweetness that blended perfectly with the spice that was beginning to warm his mouth. He took a second bite and the heat begin to spread throughout his face.

“It's spicy, but not overbearing. That touch of sweet makes you want another bite,” Alburet said, taking a third bite.

“This is the best stew I've had,” Karen added. “Beef with barley is the base, but I have no idea what seasonings are in it.”

“Ma will nay even tell us, sayin' she will only tell once we find a man to settle down with.” Stacia said softly, nibbling a chunk of bread between bites of the stew. “If the heat gets too much eat the bread.”

Alburet broke a chunk off the bread, setting it beside his bowl as he took his fourth bite of stew. He could feel heat spreading through his body by then. “Does the heat keep growing?”

“Aye, like the fires of hell,” Stacia said softly. “Me Da can't even finish a bowl without bread, and he’s been eating this dish for years.”

Karen took a bite of bread, “Wow, it really does ramp up. This is wonderful. The bread quenches the heat in the mouth then spreads to the rest like the stew did.”

Alburet took another bite of stew as he gauged how many more bites were in the bowl. Fifth bite in and he hadn't made a noticeable dent in the serving. Now the heat made him start to perspire. He wiped the sweat from his brow and took another bite.

Stacia eyed him nervously, “Sir, ya should nay push ya self like that.”

Karen chimed in, “I agree with Stacia, Alburet. It wouldn't do for you to be unable to enjoy the rest of the night.”

Alburet was about to take another bite of the stew, doggedly determined to see how much he could stand, then glanced at the women. With a sigh he put down the spoon and took a bite of bread instead. Stacia let out a relieved sigh, her hand dropping under the table to squeeze his thigh once.

The meal continued with minimal talk, each of them enjoying the stew. Alburet discovered the wine didn't affect the heat from the stew at all. It did however add a whole different flavor to the stew which seemed to help emphasis the sweetness. The flavors mingled like two lovers in the throes of ecstasy.

When they finished Alburet sat back, sipping the wine in his goblet as he nibbled the last of his bread. “Wow, I really need to make sure your mother is compensated for that meal. I would easily rank it in the top five meals I've ever eaten in either world.”

Lips pursed, Karen nodded slowly, “Top five might be a bit much, but easily the top ten. Top five is hard to beat out but it surely gives them a run for it.”

“I will pass along ya kind words to her,” Stacia said as she sipped her own wine. “A question, sir. Why did ya invite me to join the meal?”

Karen showed interested in his answer, as well. Alburet replied. “Honestly, Stacia, it just felt right. Where I come from most people don't have personal maids and it just seemed wrong to not include you. I will ask you to join me in all the meals I take while I am here, probably.”

They finished the wine before Alburet spoke again, addressing Karen. “So, you little mynx, did you want to take a bath then have Stacia rub you down?”

Karen looked at Stacia for a moment, “Stacia, are you willing?”

Stacia met Karen's eyes for a moment before a smile crept across her lips. “Aye, miss. I will gladly serve ya as me sir wishes.”

Alburet coughed gently, “Well then, a bath first then back here for a massage. Stacia, if you’ll show her to the bath I’ll be along in a moment.”

He followed them out of the room, but went downstairs to the packed taproom. He elbowed his way to the bar, catching Alistern's attention. When he came over Alburet dropped a gold on the bar, “My companion and I will be using the bathing room. This is to make all my meals are doubled. Stacia will be joining me when I eat.”

Alistern picked up the gold with a nod, his eyes drilling into Alburet. “Do not lead me girl astray, Summoner. If ya hurt her I will be most upset.”

“My word that I will not, Alistern,” Alburet replied firmly before turning and going back upstairs to the bathing room.

Stacia met him at the door of the bathing room, “Please go in, sir. I be right behind ya.”

Entering, he saw Karen seated under a shower with her eyes closed, letting the water run over her body. Alburet watched the water wash over her small form, noting her toned muscles with interest. He stripped off his own clothing, taking the spot next to Karen and grabbed the chain to allow warm water to wash over him. When he released the chain after a couple of minutes, Stacia was also naked, kneeling behind Karen scrubbing her back while humming a soft tune.

Karen seemed relaxed as Stacia’s hands moved along her back. Neither woman seemed to notice Alburet sitting right there. Stacia leaned in and whispered into Karen’s ear which prompted Karen to stand up, allowing Stacia to start on the toned legs before her. She scrubbed both the front and back as Karen stood there before she softly asked Karen to sit back down. Once Karen was reseated Stacia leaned in, pressing her breasts into Karen’s back as she whispered to her. Karen shivered slightly at whatever was said, leaning back into Stacia.

Stacia looked over at Alburet, her eyes smoldering with desire as her hands gently reached around and began to scrub Karen’s chest. As Alburet’s eyes went from Stacia’s eyes to the sight of one beauty rubbing the other he felt himself stiffen. A wicked smile came to Stacia’s lips and she gently pinched Karen’s nipples, which pulled a soft moan from Karen, before her hands traveled down the flat stomach. Alburet felt his pulse begin to increase as he watched the show, his breathing becoming shallower as his excitement increased.

A moment later Stacia pulled her hands away from Karen after one more squeeze of the smaller woman’s breast, then gently eased Karen back into an upright position. Whispering to Karen one more time Stacia got off her knees, walking around in front of Karen and pulling the chain bringing warm water down on them both. Karen seemed to rouse slightly at that point, her eyes locking onto the naked beauty before her. Stacia grinned down at Karen before taking the other’s hand and putting it on the chain. Once Karen had the chain Stacia leaned down and kissed her gently before pulling back.

Alburet shivered at how erotic the women looked. He closed his eyes, taking a deep shuddering breath as he tried to calm his excitement. When he opened them Karen was turned to face him on her seat as he felt Stacia push her naked body against him from behind. He swallowed hard as he felt himself stiffen fully from just that contact and the previous show.

“It be ya turn now, sir,” Stacia whispered softly into his ear, her voice eager.

Alburet found his gaze drawn to Karen, who was watching him, her eyes full of desire. Stacia began to hum the same tune she had with Karen earlier as her hands and breasts began to rub the soap onto his naked body. Alburet felt his mind grow a little fuzzy as Stacia scrubbed him, he was focused on the woman soaping him and the one across from him who was gently tugging on her hard nipples as she watched them. Stacia leaned into his back as her hands as she began to scrub his chest.

As she ran her hands over his chest she whispered into his ear, “I be just going to clean ya sir, just like last time.” Her words were a silken purr as her hands grasped him firmly, stroking his manhood once.

A growl emerged from his throat as she stroked him twice more, then her hands vanished. A moment later she stood before him, her entire front coated with suds, tugging on the chain to bring water cascading down over them both. Alburet felt some of his stupor fall away as he watched Stacia rinse the soap from herself. Her hands lingered on her chest and again between her legs. When she placed his hand on the chain he held onto it and blinked, feeling his head clear as if coming out of a daze. Stacia had returned to Karen, leading her by the hand to the big tub, which prompted Alburet to hurriedly rinse the rest of the soap off his body.

He walked over to the tub as Karen sank into the hot water with a happy sigh. Wrapping his arms around Stacia, he nibbled her neck, “You little wench. Working both me and her into an overly excited state like that.”

Stacia let out a soft moan as she pressed her ass back into his stiff cock, “Did ya nay enjoy the show or me hands, sir?”

A dark chuckle came from his lips as he pulled her with him into the tub. He settled into one of the contoured seats, holding her to his chest the whole time. “Of course I enjoyed it, but now I think turnabout is fair play. Oh, Karen?”

Karen glided over to them with a wicked gleam in her eyes, “Oh, I agree with you Alburet.” Without missing a beat Karen joined in with Alburet as their hands roamed over the shapely body he held to him.

Stacia moaned as the duo worked her body over with precision then gasping as Alburet let one arm slide down to hold her a bit lower than the waist. He didn’t let his fingers invade her, but the heel of his palm was right against her lower lips which meant every time he moved his hand her clit would be stimulated just enough to tease. They toyed with her in such a fashion for what seemed like hours to her, but was closer to half an hour.

Alburet finally released her, much to her regret as she had found a way to rock against his hand to increase her own pleasure. “Time to go back to the room, don’t you agree Karen?” he asked with a smirk at Stacia’s obvious disappointment.

“Oh, I agree. Time to really celebrate, right?”

Alburet and Karen climbed out of the tub, snagging two towels and drying off quickly while Stacia tried to gather her own thoughts. They’d donned the robes Stacia had laid out by the time she gathered her wits, looking at her with amusement. “Sorry, be coming right now…” she started, but Karen quickly interjected.

“Not yet, but give me a few minutes in the room and you will be.”

Stacia got out of the tub, reaching for a towel only to have it pulled out of her reach. Alburet and Karen pounced on her from either side, wrapping her up in their towels instead. Stacia preened at the attention, disappointed when they stopped and held out a robe to her.

A minute later they’d all returned to Alburet’s room. No sooner had the door closed behind Alburet than Karen was pulling her robe off, letting it fall to the floor. She eagerly threw herself onto the bed face down before stretching. Looking back over her shoulder, she smiled, “I believe there was going to be a massage, right?”

Alburet chuckled and took a seat at the table, “Correct. Stacia, I do believe you’re up.”

Stacia grabbed a bottle from the sideboard before walking back to the bed. She stripped off her own robe, letting it fall to the floor, turning sideways to show her profile off to Alburet. “Sir, does the deal from earlier still hold?”

It took him a moment to recall what he’d said about the massage earlier. Grinning, he replied, “If Karen says your massage was one of the top three she’s ever received, then yes.”

Eyes blazing with triumph, Stacia nodded, “Accepted.” She tipped some vanilla scented oil into her hand, warming it, then began the massage.

Alburet watched as Stacia worked her hands over Karen’s body. She was focused solely on the task before her, not on making it a show for him. The happy little noises Karen made at times were erotic enough. Stacia worked her way down Karen’s body, then rolled her over onto her back, working her way back up. Shortly after Stacia began to work the oil into the smaller, pert breasts of Karen she leaned down and kissed her gently.

Karen moaned eagerly, opening her mouth to turn the small kiss into a passionate one even as Stacia’s hands continued their assault. Alburet sat up straight, eyes intent on the scene before him, his heart speeding up at the sight. He swallowed hard as he watched one of Stacia’s hands ease down Karen’s front until it came to rest between her open legs. Hands shaking, he felt the blood rushing from his brain as other parts of him demanded it. He got to his feet, drawn like a moth to a flame as he stripped the robe off. He came up behind Stacia, who was bent over the bed eagerly kissing Karen. He tapped Stacia’s legs gently, which she spread for him. As she felt him pierce her from behind her moan mingled with Karen’s.

Hours later the trio were lying in bed, exhausted and spent, but each of them fully sated by all the carnal desires they had indulged in. Karen stretched with a cat like smile, turning her head to look at Alburet. “So, how was the celebration?”

“I don’t think anything could top that,” he replied with a grin.

“Right,” Karen giggled, then sighed. “Damn it, I do need to get going. I have a class to teach tomorrow and on top of that the day after I’m representing the dojo in a tourney. It will be a few days before I make it back on. That’s fine, though, considering tomorrow normal access starts up which means way more people.”

“That still kind of sucks,” Alburet replied, slightly adjusting the arm Karen was using as a pillow. “Oh, well. I’m sure I won’t be too much further ahead of you by the time you return.”

“Please stop by again so we can indulge some more,” Stacia said from Alburet’s other side. “Before ya depart to the land of the two-souled, can ya tell sir if me massage was one of the top three ya ever received?”

Karen sat up so she could lean over Alburet to kiss Stacia, “Best massage ever.”

Stacia pulled Karen down for another kiss, “Thanks.”

“Well, no more waiting I guess. Do you mind if I log out here?” Karen asked, still partially draped over Alburet.

“It costs a kiss for that to be approved,” Alburet chuckled. Karen chuckled as well before she kissed him deeply. Just as his arm snaked up to embrace her she vanished into thin air, leaving him feeling disappointed. “Oh, that little fucking mynx.”

Stacia snuggled closer to him, “Feel free to use me in her stead.”

Turning his head, he leaned in and kissed her. He broke the kiss a minute later, “I think it’s time for bed now.” He turned and wrapped Stacia up in a tight embrace, pulling her back to his front and nuzzled her neck. “Good night, oh fair maid.”

“Good night, sir,” Stacia replied as she relaxed into the spoon.

Alburet woke gradually to the warmth and sensation of Stacia between his legs, sucking him. He shuddered at her expert work, giving in and enjoying the sensations washing through him. He wondered briefly if he hadn’t actually died in jail and was now experiencing heaven or a close approximation of it. After a few minutes he tangled his hands in her hair so he could control what she was doing. After another few minutes he shuddered in climax as she eagerly swallowed every drop of his seed.

Once she had cleaned him thoroughly, which sent aftershocks of pleasure through him, she slid up his body to gently lay astride him. “Morning, sir. I hope ya enjoyed the wakeup call,” she said as she peeked at him through her lashes.

“I think I could have died happy with you doing that,” he said, reaching up to caress her cheek. “Feel free to wake me like that anytime.”

“About last night,” Stacia said, meeting his eyes fully, “I believe ya owe me any one request.” When Alburet nodded, she continued, “I then request to call ya master, in all meanings of the word, instead of sir.”

Alburet felt his anatomy stir at her words, as being called master by a willing woman was one of his many desires. “I accept your request. I shall be your master in all things.”

“Thank ya, master,” she whispered, her eyes bright as she leaned in and kissed him.

As their lips touched they each felt a sharp jolt at their core, which made them pause and gaze into each other’s eyes. Alburet could see unbridled happiness and acceptance mixed with desire and need in Stacia’s. He wondered if she could see how happy her words and actions had made him even through his uncertainty at this sudden closeness that had come about so quickly.

“Now, what nickname to give you?” Alburet murmured. “Karen is already mynx, so what to call you? So eager to be stroked, so soft and lovable, yet I feel like you could bring out claws at any time. I shall have to call you kitten. This way when you purr I know it’s for me.”

Stacia laid her head on his chest and let out a soft purr as she nuzzled him, “Whatever master desires.”

He brought a hand up to tangle into her hair, “Right now what I want is to be rough with you.” He smiled at her soft moan as she nipped at his chest, “I know you enjoyed the spanking the other day.”

Two hours later he sent her down to get breakfast for them both. He lay back in the bed, closing his eyes. It had only been six days since he was thrust into this world, game, he corrected himself. Yet in that time he felt a profound sense of peace, as if he belonged here. He had made friends who weren’t judging him, but they didn’t know his past. He wondered how they would view him if they found out. He also had found someone who came very close to what he had always considered his ideal woman. On top of that, he had found a woman who would gladly spar with him then fuck his brains out to boot. He got up stretching as he did, thinking about what he should accomplish today when his mail icon started to flash.

Message from Fluffball:

Hey. I don’t know if you’re on, but I figure the quest chain is over with by now. I’m thinking about hitting up the goblin village. If you want to join me, just let me know, please.

He sent her back a message that the quest chain was indeed over, but he would be glad to join her in about an hour at the portal guild. Just as he sent the message Stacia came back into the room with the food and a package. “Ya clothes from the tailor came last night. Da’ kept them behind the bar as he did nay want to disturb ya.”

“That was nice of him. Just store them in the wardrobe for now. I’ll be heading out to hunt goblins after breakfast. I’ll probably be out for about half the day, should be back by evening,” Alburet told Stacia as she laid out breakfast for them.

She pouted just a little, but nodded, “I understand, master. It is after all the calling of the two-souled to fight back the monsters. I just wish I could go with and help ya, but I would only be a hindrance. I will make sure everything is ready for ya return.”

Pursing his lips, he examined her features as he placed five gold on the table, “Go out shopping. Buy whatever you wish to spend the coin on.” When she started to object he held out a hand to silence her, once she stopped he continued. “No arguments, kitten. I have never had as much personal joy as I have in the last two days. This is my way of giving back a little to you, so take it and go spend it.”

Stacia took the coin, biting her lip as if she wanted to say something but was afraid to ask. She spoke in a rush, “Are ya really a two-souled?”

Chuckling Alburet replied, “What makes you think I’m not?”

“Ya do nay depart like Karen did last night. Ya have been here the last few days all the time unlike any other two-souled I’ve heard of. Ya treat all of us with the courtesy like any normal folk, unlike most two-souled. Ya do nay jus’ run around demanding things of others. On top of all tha’ ya have treated me like a lady at times and nay just a bar wench .” She looked away from him as if afraid of how he might reply.

He considered for a moment what he could say before answering her, “Stacia, my pretty little kitten, look at me please.” He waited until she met his gaze, “I am a two-souled, do not doubt that. With that said though, I am a unique two-souled. What I am about to tell you cannot be shared with anyone, even your own family. Do you agree?”

Her eyes widened slightly, but she nodded, “On me soul, master.”

Taking a deep breath he began, “I am a new type of two-souled. One day there will be others like me who can stay in this world for longer times but for now I believe I am the only one. Once a month I will be gone for an entire day as my soul is taken back to the other world. On that world I am helping others with an experiment, if it is successful it will help many others. All the other days I will be here in Alpha World all the time. My day of absence is about three weeks away. I will try to warn you ahead of time, but even I am not exactly sure when it will happen.”

Stacia looked a little uncertain, “Ya will come back after the day away?”

“Of course. I will do my very best and bend heaven and hell to make it back. Now, I must go,” he got up and began to equip his gear. “You be good, kitten. I look forward to later tonight.”

Stacia curtsied to him, “Be safe, master. I shall be waiting.”

He could tell she was worried but he couldn’t do anything else for her right now. He closed the distance between them, grabbing her firmly as he pulled her into an embrace and kissing her deeply. He let the kiss linger for a few minutes, then sat her down before he spun and left the room. He felt a small tug at his chest when he left, as if he was leaving a small piece of himself. Shaking it off, he nodded to Stacia’s sister behind the bar, who winked at him as he headed out to the portal guild. He was going to be a little late unless he picked up the pace, so he started to jog.

Goblin Slaying

As he jogged along the roads to the portal guild he saw more people running down the streets. He smirked, knowing that the majority of them would be players who had just started today. He snorted as he watched one of the new players collide with a city guard, as if he expected to be able to run through the guard. Arriving at the portal guild a few minutes later he paused outside to take a few deep breaths before going inside. Entering, he found the waiting area full of people all talking excitedly with each other. He looked over the crowd trying to find Fluffball. He stepped towards the receptionist’s desk, wondering where Fluffball could be.

Fluffball called out to him as he was passing the waiting area, “Al, how are you doing?”

As the words left her mouth he got the invitation to group. Accepting the invitation, he replied to her. “Doing pretty good, Fluff. Did your business go well?”

“Yes. Wow, I see you’ve hit level thirteen. Have you already been out to the village overrun by goblins?” She asked, joining him in line at the reception desk.

“Yeah, been there. Even went out to the orc area yesterday to do a quest chain.”

“Oh, got the drop off a Goblin Messenger?”

“Yeah, that was the quest chain I sent you a message about. Too bad you missed it. Marysue asked if you had been around, by the way.”

“Um hm. I had a couple of messages from her asking if I wanted to party up with them when I was gone. They’re both fourteen already, which is amazing. They both must be playing a lot. I’m hoping to hit twelve today myself.” Fluffball turned to the receptionist as they reached the front of the line. “Hi. Party of two for the ruined village that’s overrun by goblins.”

A receptionist Alburet hadn’t met was manning the desk, “That will be a gold and a half each.”

Alburet put three gold onto the desk, “I got this round, Fluff.” The receptionist took the gold and bade them wait in the waiting area. As they got out of the way for the next in line, Alburet offered his arm to Fluff, “Shall we?”

Fluffball smiled broadly, grooming one of her ears momentarily before taking his arm, “I see you are still the gentleman.”

“Always treat the women you are with as ladies while in public. It’s been one of my mottos for some time.” Alburet replied as he led her to the waiting area and looked for a seat. He found a single chair off to the side and quickly took her to it. “Please, sit,” he said as he swept his free hand at the chair.

“Oh, I wouldn’t feel right taking the only seat,” Fluff said.

“Well, you can have the chair or I can take it then pull you into my lap,” Alburet said without thinking about who he was with.

Fluff’s eyes went wide as she looked at him in shock, her cheeks red under the fur. She groomed one of her ears nervously as they stood in front of the seat in silence for a second. Alburet realized what he had just said and to whom and winced internally.

“Err, yeah, I’m sorry about that. I’ve been hanging around with some different people over the last few days. It seems my mouth to brain filter is off at the moment.” Alburet felt his cheeks tinge slightly in embarrassment for having caused Fluff to be discomfited.

“No, no, it’s okay. You won’t do anything if I take the seat, right?” Her voice was full of uncertainty.

“I will not lay a finger on you without your approval,” Alburet replied, gesturing to the seat.

Fluff sat down, keeping her eyes on him as she did. A silence fell between them for a time, each of them trying to think of a way to break the awkward moment.

“So,” Alburet finally said, “I’ve been a little curious, so I might as well ask you. Why are you so nervous or embarrassed when I make the occasional remark?” He kept his tone level, laced with the warmth of one friend concerned for another. Fluffball looked away from him, her cheeks turning red again. When he saw that he quickly continued, “I mean, you don’t have to answer. I was just curious.”

Her voice just barely loud enough to be heard over all the other conversations she replied, “Social anxiety, mostly. It’s one of the reasons I started playing mmorpgs.”

Alburet sank down to one knee beside her, gently placing a hand on hers on the arm of the chair. When she looked over at him with her eyes full of worry he smiled gently at her. “I’m sorry if I’ve made you uncomfortable. I will do my best to curtail my sexual comments, okay?”

Her hand trembled slightly and she licked her lips nervously, “You aren’t trying to embarrass or hurt me with them though, so it’s okay. I know that you’re safe to be with which helps me get used to how a lot of other people act. So don’t change anything you are doing, it will only help me in the long run.”

He reached up and rubbed her ear gently, “As you wish, Fluff.”

She froze momentarily when he touched her ear then, pushed her head into his hand purring. He chuckled softly as he continued to rub her ear, “Gods, you do cute really well.”

Fluff blushed crimson, but purred even louder as she rubbed her head into his hand. Minutes went by, each of them quite content as they waited for the portal mage. Eventually the mage showed up and led them to the portal room. Fluff went through as Alburet tipped the mage, then he followed after her.

Appearing in the ruined inn, Fluff was waiting for him so he buffed up then summoned Bob and Tiny. “Okay guys, we’re killing goblins again today with Fluff,” he told them as he went to the door.

“No Karen today?” Bob asked, disappointment clear in his voice.

“Hello Fluffball,” Tiny rumbled, “I will keep you safe.”

“No Karen today, Bob, which means we’ll have to figure out another way to deal with the archers. I’m thinking I’ll go solo them while you all take out the melee.”

“I don’t like that plan, but I will follow it if you think it is the best plan,” Tiny opined.

“If we try anything else Bob or Fluff might take the damage instead of me,” Alburet pointed out. “Anyway we’ll check the houses we found goblins in before. The first house is three spots down, but first the buffs.” He quickly cast Demonic Haze and Demonic Retribution onto Tiny before they set out at a jog towards the targeted house.

As they reached the house a goblin leaned out the window on the second floor to shoot at Tiny. The arrow missed by an inch as Tiny reached the doorway, pushing the two goblins inside back to give the others room to follow him in. Two small sparks ignited on each goblin’s chest as Retribution did 10 damage to each in return for the attacks they’d landed on Tiny. Alburet slapped Tiny with Demonic Vitality as he ran for the stairs. He pulled his maul out, flames licking along it just as the Goblin Archer reached the bottom of the stairs. In a panic, the archer fire point blank into Alburet’s chest pulling an expletive from him and taking just short of 20 health from him. In return the maul smashed into the goblin taking away a little over 200 health.

The goblin screeched as it dropped the bow and pulled a dagger. That gave Alburet enough time to rip the arrow from his chest with another curse. The two clashed again with Alburet taking a gash to his side, in return slamming the maul into the goblin’s head as it had over extended the attack. Two more attacks were exchanged before the goblin fell over dead, just as the others dispatched the two goblin sword wielders.

Grimacing Alburet knelt down and looted the goblin by his feet as his wounds began to heal now that combat was over. “I really hate taking damage,” he groused as he tossed the loot into his bag. “Full pain immersion sucks, no one wants that. If they ever split the sensors between pleasure and pain, no one will ever turn pain up past maybe 25% for those who really want to feel like the game is real.”

Fluff finished looting the other two goblins, “I’ll take your word for it. The minimum setting is 10%. That feels like nerf bats, which is funny more than anything. I turned it up to 30% briefly. After one fight I knocked it back down to 20%. At 20% pain at least vaguely feels like it should. A stab is like a small needle poking you, a cut is a quick burning sensation and blunt damage feels like a wiffle bat. It’s just enough sensory info to make you react to it accordingly.”

“Yeah, now if anyone could convince the devs of that,” Alburet said as he joined the others at the door. “Oh, well. I shall suffer, not so silently, for my friends. The next house should be four down from here.” He buffed Tiny before they piled out the door and down the street.

The next six hours passed with them doing the same thing over and over. Fluff leveled and they cleared the village thoroughly twice, checking each house just to be sure. In between fights they chatted about little things with Bob occasionally tossing in a snarky comment. When they got back to the ruined inn the third time, Alburet called a break.

“Okay, let’s pause for a few,” Alburet said, leading them into the inn. “I have some food in my bag so a break sounds good to me.”

Fluffball chewed her lip, “Do you mind if I duck off for half an hour instead?”

“That’s fine, feel free,” he replied as he pulled out some jerky and a canteen of tea, “see you in half.” Fluffball vanished, leaving Alburet and his demons alone in the inn.

As Alburet ate his jerky Bob piped up, “I have been wondering master, why are you so different from the other two-souled?”

Tiny perked up, apparently interested in the answer as well so Alburet paused eating to answer. “Because I’m a special case at the moment. I will have your word that this information will not be repeated to anyone in this world or the demon realm in any way.” Bob and Tiny exchanged a glance before they agreed. Once they did he continued. “The two-souled are here for less than a day at a time currently, but soon there will be others like me who will be here for a month or two at a time before we have to travel back to the other world. Eventually we might find a way to stay in Alpha World for even longer stretches, but currently that is our limit. That’s why Karen and Fluff leave for hours or days at a time.”

“Ah, so the magic of your other world is limited currently,” Bob nodded sagely, as if understanding.

Lips quirked into a smile, Alburet agreed, “Yes, basically. However, the research behind improving the spell as it were is all done except for the final approval by the overlords of that world. I’m a simple test case.”

“Will you be leaving us then?” Tiny asked in puzzlement.

“I will be here for about another three weeks before I am tasked to return and report.”

“Will you be gone long?” Tiny asked, a worried note in his voice which made Bob chuckle.

“A day, two at the most barring setbacks,” Alburet reassured the large demon as he finished off his snack and tea.

“So where is Karen?” Bob asked with a smirk.

“Taking a few days away to deal with business she has in the other world. She said she would be back in two or three days. Until then we’ll hunt with Fluff or even, dare I say it, alone.”

“So did she let you ‘spar’ with her?” Bob asked, his eyes gleaming.

Shaking his head Alburet sighed, “Bob, Bob, Bob. A gentleman never tells.”

“Which is why I was asking you,” Bob cackled.

“Touché. However, still not telling you and that is final. Feel free to ask her though, when she gets back.”

“So Karen will be back to fight with us in a few days?” Tiny cut in, a few seconds behind in the conversation which made Bob laugh at him again.

“Should be, yes.” Alburet replied, then got up and started poking around the inn to see if anything was just lying about to be found while he waited for Fluff to return.

“Sorry I’m late,” Fluff said as she appeared, a little later than she had intended.

“It’s fine,” Alburet reassured her, getting to his feet. “You good for some more goblin slaying?”

Fluff bounced on her feet a little like an eager school girl, “Yes, sir.”

Chuckling at the image of Fluff in plaid skirt and white blouse, he shook his head, “Okay then, let’s do this. Tiny, come on over so we can buff you up, then we’re going to do another round of the village.”

They started around of the village again using the same tactics they had for the first six hours. On the second house there was a brief hiccup in the attack. They had gotten inside the house with Tiny holding the melee goblins while Alburet went to grab the archer, who came down from the second floor. As Alburet hit the goblin for the second time, the maul shattered into blue motes of light leaving him weaponless.

“Tiny! Help!” Alburet called as he rolled away from the gleeful goblin, who chased him wielding a dagger.

Tiny turned and roared with rage, charging across the room to slam his shield into the dagger wielding goblin’s face. Doing so left him open to attacks from the two goblins he had been facing. Alburet came running over applying Demonic Vitality to Tiny as Fluff and Bob killed one of the two sword wielding goblins that had been attacking Tiny. Alburet decided to start casting Fire Blast instead of digging the axe out of his bag at the moment. A minute later the goblins were dead, allowing the group to pause.

Bob was laughing, “So funny, you running away from a little goblin with a dagger.”

Rolling his eyes, Alburet dug the two handed axe out of his bag, “I forgot to keep an eye on the maul’s durability. It could have happened to anyone.”

Tiny rumbled, “It is okay. I will protect you.”

Fluffball just shook her head, “It was funny. Not quite muppet-like but still amusing. It also still amazes me how alive your minions are.”

“I think Bob could do with a little less life at times,” Alburet mock groused, as the imp was still wiping tears of laughter from his eyes.

Bob tilted his head back and let out a panicked little scream and began running around the room. As the others all came to their feet looking for some reason for the panic, Bob stopped and looked back at them, “So what did you think of my Alburet impersonation?”

Fluffball snorted as she stifled her laughter, looking away from the others. Tiny blinked, looking puzzled at finding nothing to attack. Alburet glowered at the imp, his eyes alight with images of how to slowly roast the little bastard. Bob stopped laughing on seeing Alburet’s eyes, stepping back from the glowering Summoner.

“It was just a joke master, that was all, just a harmless little joke,” Bob placated as he took a few more steps away from Alburet.

Closing his eyes Alburet, held back his own laughter behind the blank faced façade he had put up. He actually thought Bob running around just like a muppet had been hilarious, Bob had the form down perfectly. Head tilted back, mouth open, weird little bouncy run with arms flailing around overhead. He had glowered just to keep up pretenses, since he was supposed to be in charge. Opening his eyes, he looked at Bob before sighing. “Yeah, it was pretty good, but no more doing that around others.”

Bob sagged in relief, “Yes master.”

Fluffball snorted again, “I thought he did the perfect muppet run myself. Henson would have been proud.”

Alburet turned to wink at her then turned back to the demons. “Alright, enough shenanigans. Let’s get moving.”

They went back to their grind, making one circuit of the village in about three hours. During that time, Alburet reached level 14. “Okay, let’s call it a day. The sun will be setting soon. Fluff, you going to take off, or would you like to grab dinner in Stormguard?”

Fluff blinked, looking at him oddly for a moment, “You mean just the two of us?”

“Like a date?” Bob piped up with a leer as he wiggled his eyebrows.

“You’re dismissed, Bob. You as well, Tiny,” Alburet said quickly, causing the demons to vanish in puffs of smoke leaving Bob’s mocking laughter behind. “We’ve been fighting all day so I thought some food sounded good was all. Honestly Fluff, while you’re cute and adorable and I think any guy in his right mind should try to get you, I am not doing that. I can’t have a relationship and I want to make sure it is known now so no hard feelings come of it later. I will treasure you as a friend though, and will be there if you need me.”

Alburet paused as he tried to get his thoughts untangled, “So, trying this again. Would you like to grab some food with me, with no motives beyond what is stated?”

Fluffball blinked at him like he had two heads as she stood there quietly for a few moments. “I… um… yes?” She seemed uncertain even as she said it, her hands trembling slightly as she swallowed nervously.

Alburet smiled gently and took out his Homestone, “Meet you at the portal guild, okay?”

Fluff fumbled her own stone out as she agreed, vanishing quickly leaving Alburet standing in the ruined inn alone. He paused, wondering just how sheltered and nervous she had to be for such a simple thing like dinner to fluster her this badly. He wondered if he could really help her with her issues as he invoked his own stone and appeared in the graveyard outside the Dead Man Inn. He glanced at it for a moment, wondering if he should tell Stacia to grab some dinner as he would still be out for at least a little bit. He tossed the idea away, figuring he could always nibble something when he made it back to the Inn when dinner was over. With his thoughts in order he set off at a fast walk for the portal guild to meet up with Fluffball.

When he reached the portal guild he found a large number of players all gathered around outside the building in small groups. As he got closer he heard most of them talking about how long it took to get a portal to the next area. He overhead one player complaining loudly about how stupid it was to have to wait. Alburet couldn’t really fault them much. People played games to have fun after all, not to wait around to get to the next area. At the same time, he liked most of the ways the devs had tried to make the world feel more real instead of totally game like. He wondered if they might just make the portals permanent with only a fee required to use them instead of the current system though, to help keep the players happy.

As he stood there pondering he spotted Fluff out on the street, eyeing the large crowd with uncertainty. She smiled at him shyly and waved as he trotted over to her.

“You were in the beta, any idea of a good place for a meal?” Alburet asked as he reached her.

“There is a place I’ve been a few times, but it has a special feel to it.”

He crooked an arm out, “If you recommend it, then I am sure it’s fine. Shall we?”

She took his arm after a brief second of hesitation, “Let’s. The place is down four streets then turn left, after another street it’s on the right hand side.”

Alburet led her down the streets following her directions until they came to the place she had directed them to. He looked at the sign above the door, which declared it Heaven Maid. He wondered what the name could possibly mean even as he opened the door for Fluff before following her in. As the door closed behind him his eyes adjusted to the light inside, allowing him to see exactly where he was.

The decor was that of a small café, with tables and booths with cute decorations everywhere. His eyes traveled the room picking out the numerous stuffed animals that lined the walls on shelves. Two butlers and three maids stood before them, smiling in welcome.

“Welcome home, master and mistress,” the five people said in unison.

Alburet felt his lips quirk slightly as he held back laughter. Who in the hell would have thought to put a maid cafe into this game, he thought. Fluff took his arm again, looking a little uncertain then purred happily when Alburet didn’t object. Alburet glanced from her to the staff, noting the butlers were an Elf and a Human, while the maids were an Elf, Lunari, and Human respectively.

“So what do you think?” Fluff murmured.

Letting his smile broaden, Alburet replied to her by addressing the staff, “It is good to be home. If one of you ladies wouldn’t mind seeing to us tonight?”

Fluff purred louder as the Lunari maid led them to a booth in the back. Alburet had always had a soft spot for anime, so this whole cafe was a wonderful surprise to him. He did note the puzzlement from the server as he and Fluff took opposite sides of the table. The maid quickly replaced her expression with one of happiness as she handed them two menus, asking them to call for her when they were ready.

“So you’re okay with this?” Fluff asked again, still obviously nervous.

“I used to watch a lot of anime to unwind, Fluff. This is fine, though I’m really thrown that it exists here. How did you find this place?”

Fluff looked at her menu intently, licking her lips as she chewed her bottom lip. “A friend of mine told me about it. So when I got to the city during beta I came straight here to see it.”

“You have a soft spot for maid cafes then?”

“Well, I do digital art, I told you that before. I’ve done the animation for a few anime before under a pen name.”

“Wow you did anime work, have I seen any of your stuff?” Alburet asked eagerly, putting his menu down to look at her.

Fluff brought her menu up to block his gaze, her cheeks bright red. “I don’t know, it’s not something I talk about normally.”

Pulling back his enthusiasm a little, he recalled her anxiety and felt a little bad for putting her on the spot. “Sorry about that, Fluff. It’s just been rare for me to find someone who likes anime. I won’t ask again, but if you want to talk about it I don’t mind at all.” He paused, then changed the topic, “So you’ve been here before. What do you suggest?”

“They don’t really serve meals so much as snacks. The crepes have been really good, though.”

Alburet got a momentary flash of different animes where the two main characters eat crepes together. He couldn’t help the stupid little smile that crept over his mouth. “Crepes, you say? Does that mean I can sample yours if we both get them?”

Fluff let out a mew behind the menu as it shook slightly in her hands, “Umm… err... yes?”

Alburet immediately felt bad. He had told her not even an hour ago he wasn’t interested in any kind of relationship and now here he was asking for an anime trope that was all about cute couples. He blinked as he realized what he was doing, chewing on his lip. If he tried to back out of it now he would really be an ass. He sighed internally as he glanced at the menu to figure out his order. Fluff set her menu down, her cheeks still red as she looked around the room, Alburet set his down a moment later and caught the eyes of the maid.

“Are you ready, sir?”

“Yes we are, but ladies first,” Alburet said, nodding towards Fluff.

“Um, I’ll take the strawberry crepe and the strawberry milk please,” Fluff said.

“Chocolate crepe and coffee for me, please. Just a splash of cream in the coffee,” Alburet said. The maid collected the menus, thanking them and hurrying away.

“I haven’t been out to food with a friend in years, “Alburet mused. “It’s nice, even here in Alpha World, and at a maid cafe to boot.”

“Oh because of the…” Fluff cut off as she caught herself about to mention his disability.

“Yeah, because of that,” Alburet said calmly, “it’s not a great topic so I thank you for breaking off the sentence.”

“Sorry,” Fluff said looking away. “What about before that?”

“I used to go out once a week with a friend and his daughter. That was about it, really. I was never good at the whole dating thing, it’s hard when the first thing you have to ask a woman you’re interested in is if they’re a felon or currently undergoing criminal charges.”

Fluffball’s eyes went wide, “You had to ask that?”

“Policy for the sheriff’s office, so yeah. Considering the smallish town I lived in had a massive drug issue, it was really hard to find someone so I all but gave up on it. I was happy enough to hang with my friend and his daughter. Those were good days,” he said, the memories causing a sad smile form on his lips.

“You don’t see them anymore?” Fluff asked softly, her hand inching across the table toward his.

“Not since the incident,” Alburet replied, his face becoming a blank mask as he looked away.

Just then the maid came over with the crepes and drinks. The crepes were in stands to hold them upright with the wrapper around them. The maid quickly placed the food before each of them then added a splash of cream to his coffee at the table. “Enjoy the food,” she said, bouncing away.

“At least they got the happy atmosphere of the cafe right,” Alburet said, a smile tugging the corners of his lips up.

Fluff nodded, sipping her milk before taking the crepe out of its holder. “About trying my crepe,” she paused, holding it towards him slightly, “you can if you want.”

Alburet felt a part of him melt at the stereotypical shy anime girl offering a bite of her food. With a nod he leaned over the table and took a small bite from her crepe, the creamy richness combined with strawberry filling his mouth with flavor. He made appreciative noises as he finished the bite, “Delicious. Did you want a bite of mine?” He held out his crepe to her in return.

Her cheeks flaming, she hesitantly leaned to take a bite. As she pulled back a small blob of cream went with her, stuck to her cheek. She purred loudly as she chewed. “So good,” she said after swallowing.

Alburet reached out and wiped the cream from her cheek, which made her stiffen in surprise. “Sorry, you took a touch more than you thought.” He stopped, wondering if he should offer it to her or eat it himself. In the two seconds he paused she leaned forward and lapped dab of cream off his finger. Her tongue was rough, just like a cat, rasping over the end of his finger.

Blinking in shock, he stared at his hand where the cream had just been. His brain stuttered as it processed the unexpected sensation. He was amazed that she’d been ballsy enough to do it. His brain immediately started offering up all sorts of images that would not be fit for polite company and he felt his own cheeks burning as he sat there blinking stupidly. He finally pulled his gaze up to look at Fluff. She was turned partially away, crepe in one hand drink in the other, her entire face red.

“Well. I wasn’t expecting that,” he finally managed to say. “Not that I mind but, please warn me next time.”

“Sorry,” the word was barely audible as Fluff slowly turned back to him. “I don’t know what came over me.”

Alburet took a bite of his crepe, enjoying the way the chocolate mingled with the cream before he said anything else. “Fluff, I really don’t mind. However, if you do more stuff like that I will have to start telling you what I think of when you do.” He said it with a note of humor in his voice so she could clearly understand he was teasing her gently.

Eyes going wide, she looked at him, before quickly taking another bit of her crepe. It left a streak of cream on her nose. She looked down cross eyed at it before she looked up at him with worry.

Alburet chuckled and shook his head, “I’ll leave that one to you.” He quickly shut up when her tongue snaked out and cleaned it off. He blinked as he realized just how long and flexible that tongue might be. Coughing, he looked away and took another bite of his own crepe as he tried to shut off his imagination.

Tilting her head to the side, Fluff watched him. His obvious discomfort seemed to cheer her up some. They ate the rest of the meal mostly in silence, just enjoying the food and drink with no more dashes of cream on cheeks or noses. He did note that the place did steady if slow business, each of the servers each had at least one table by the time they finished.

The maid came back as they finished their food, “Can I get you anything else, master?”

“Just the check, please,” Alburet replied as he finished off his coffee.

She placed the check on the table as she took the empty dishware away, “Please, come again.”

Alburet watched her walk away, noticing this time that her tail came out from under the skirt. His brain again unhelpfully supplied an image of what would happen if she got startled and her tail stood up in fear. Pinching the bridge of his nose, he shook his head. After looking at the bill he dropped two silver onto the table.

“You really don’t mind the way Lunari look?” Fluff asked. She had been watching him as he watched the maid walk away, trying to read his expression.

Blinking, he looked up at her, “No, why would I? As I said earlier I watched anime a lot. A good chunk of them have animal girls, from the normal cat and bunny girls to the more exotic ones. I can honestly say a few adult thoughts have crossed my mind in regard to what that would be like.”

Fluff blushed again, “Oh, er. Okay,” she said, embarrassed again.

“We should go, it’s getting late,” he stood up and held out his arm.

Fluff got to her feet, linking her arm through his, “I guess.”

The maid thanked them again at the door as they left, “Please came home again soon, master.”

Alburet chuckled as they left, “Being called master all the time might start giving me ideas.”

He felt Fluff squeeze his arm slightly and a small purr came from her but no words. He walked randomly down the street, unsure of where he should even be taking her. After a few minutes she spoke softly, “Turn right here.”

He followed her directions until they came to an inn, The Dancing Fairy. “This is where I’m staying when I log out in the city,” she said. Still holding his arm, she looked at him with soft eyes. “Thank you for today Alburet.”

Alburet turned to face her, his hand going up to gently rub an ear, “It was my pleasure, Fluff. If you want to kill more things tomorrow I am okay with that.”

Purring as she pushed her head into his hand she replied, “Yes please. I don’t have any other business lined up at the moment, so I’m free.”

Nodding, he took his hand away from her head. He caught her hand which, he gently lifted and kissed the back of. “I’ll see you tomorrow, Fluff. Sleep well.”

“Night,” she said, her voice a little dreamy. She stood there, her hand still raised where he released it as he walked away.

He looked back to see her raise the hand he’d kissed to her cheek, rubbing it slightly with her face. He ducked down the next street then stopped and leaned against a building. He wondered what he thought he was doing. He’d told her he wasn’t doing relationships, but then took her on a stereotypical anime date. He even treated her like he was trying to court her. No wonder she reacted like she did. Feeling like an asshole he started walking towards the Dead Man Inn, wondering if he could be more of an idiot.

When he got to the Dead Man Inn he found the place packed like normal for this time of night. He eventually reached the bar, ordering dinner and two mugs of the dark ale. Holding the loaded tray with both hands, he carted it up the stairs to his room. Hands full, he kicked the door in a gentle knock to get Stacia to open it.

The door opened just a crack and Stacia peeked around the door through the narrow opening. “Oh it’s ya, master. Welcome home.” She opened the door for him allowing him into the room to put the tray down on the table. She shut the door gently behind him, and as he set the tray down called out to him. “Master, do ya like my new outfit?”

Turning, he stopped dead as his eyes took in Stacia standing by the door. The maid outfit she had worn was gone and in its place was a similar but vastly different outfit. The new maid outfit was much more in line with the typical sexy french maid seen in porn, with a twist. The twist was that the front was laced together. The lacing was cinched as tight as possible, but that still left most of her breasts on display behind the ties. The skirt was a wide flared number that just barely covered her in the front and left the bottom of her ass on display, which became obvious as she spun in place to show off the outfit. Stockings and modest heels completed the ensemble.

Mouth dry, Alburet finally lifted his eyes to her face again. Swallowing to try and get a little moisture back in his mouth he answered her. “Wow,” he paused, his brain hadn't kicked back on yet due to lack of blood. “I really hope you don't plan on wearing that downstairs. It would cause a riot.”

A smile curled the corner of her mouth, “Ma helped me pick it out for ya. She said ya would really appreciate it. I see she was right.” She took a few steps towards him, her body swaying provocatively as she watched him. “If ya tug on the top a little ya can get to me nipples easily enough and it don’ take much to lift the skirt out of the way, either. So, would you like a bath, or dinner, or... me?” She paused just in front of him, her eyes wide with desire as she met his heated gaze.

Alburet grabbed her, forcefully pulling her to him. His mouth met hers with fervor, demanding her to match him in passion which she gladly did. A few hours later the pair were laying in bed covered in a thin sheen of perspiration, but quite sated.

“I didn't expect that when I got back here,” Alburet said, gently caressing her flank as her bruises healed.

“I did master, and I thank ya for it,” Stacia murmured into his chest. “I've been thinking about it all day since ya left. I dragged me Ma out to pick out something suitable before we came back here. I've been waiting ever since to show ya. Ya came back later than expected, though. Was ya day okay?”

Thinking over the day, he winced slightly. “Mostly yeah, though I made a few mistakes tonight. I knew better but didn't stop myself.”

Gently kissing his chest, Stacia snuggled into him, “Tell me?”

A little uncertain that this was a good idea, he told her about Fluff and the not quite date. Stacia stilled as she listened to him without saying anything. Once he finished she sighed into his chest, “So ya do nay want any kind of relationship then?”

Gently tracing her back, he took a deep breath before he replied, “Not with Fluff, or even Karen. As much as they both tug at me in very different ways, I could never be more than a fling here and the other world is impossible in any way, shape, or form. Karen, I think, understands and is fine with just a fling here now and again. Fluff, though. She is such a timid little thing and now I am afraid I’m going to hurt her.”

Stacia shifted so she leaned over him, her eyes shimmering, “What ever ya decide master, I will help ya. I just wish I could do more, I'm only useful for taking care of ya room.”

Alburet pulled her down, kissing her gently, “I would take you with me but I think your dad would go mental. I tell you what, get your father to agree and you can come with me and Fluff tomorrow to hunt the Orcs.”

Stacia shivered, sliding down a bit to straddle him, “Ya promise?”

Alburet nodded, “Yes, I do. But only if he agrees.”

Stacia attacked him with a flurry of kisses then jumped out of bed and began to dress. “I'll be back in a moment master, please wait.”

Alburet sprang out of bed and caught her in a hug, “No. First we are going to eat the cold food I brought up. After we’ve eaten you can go speak with him.”

“But...” she began but cut off as she caught his gaze. Meekly lowering her head she nodded, “As my master wishes.”

“Good,” he pulled her to the table and sat her in his lap, “Now then, we shall feed you first.”

Once they’d finished eating Stacia left as Alburet crawled into bed. A few seconds after his head hit the pillow he was out cold.

Alburet

Human Summoner

Level 14

Strength: 19

Agility: 19

Constitution: 25

Intelligence: 45

Wisdom: 44

Charisma: 30

Health: 950

Mana: 1140

Spells:

Demon Skin-Rank 2

Demonic Retribution- Rank 2

Summon Least Imp

Fire Blast- Rank 2

Sap Strength

Demonic Haze

Summon Lesser Destroyer

Demonic Vitality

Fire Burst

Abilities:

Personal Spells

Flame Weapon

Duel

Alburet woke feeling rested and ready for the day. Checking the clock built into the UI, he was surprised that only six hours had passed. Getting up, he thought the system must be tweaked somehow for the minimal sleep he’d been getting to make him feel so refreshed. Pausing, he looked around noting the complete absence of Stacia from the room. He recalled what he had said, then her leaving to ask her father as he crawled into bed. Using the pitcher of water and the basin he gave himself a quick wipe down before dressing and heading out to see if everything was okay.

As he exited the room he was met by Stewart who was lounging against the wall across from his door, “Morning, Alburet. A word, if you please.”

Alburet stopped short, “Can it wait a moment, Stewart? I need to check on Stacia.”

“That is why I am asking for a word with you,” Stewart’s voice went rough as his eyes began to glow. “Or would you rather do this the hard way?”

Briefly considering his chances against Stewart, he shook his head, “Not unless I have to. Where would you like to talk?”

“Private dining room downstairs. Others are waiting for us,” Stewart replied, the fire in his eyes fading.

Alburet followed Stewart’s directions to the private dining room, almost feeling like an inmate again. When he entered the room he found Stacia, her dad Alistern, and Grimgar waiting. The table was set with breakfast along with coffee. They all looked up as he entered. Grimgar gave him a polite nod, Alistern glowered at him, while Stacia gave him a hopeful smile that was undercut by the fear he could see in her eyes.

Taking a seat across from Stacia, he nodded to the others, “Morning. I do hope I’m not interrupting. I was invited by Stewart.” He couldn’t help himself, his voice sounding flippant even though he knew he shouldn’t. “Did everyone sleep well?”

Alistern growled, his hands clenching on the table, “What is this about ya taking me girl into the orc fields?”

“Ah, so you object then,” Alburet said as he helped himself to some of the food. “As I told her last night, I would take her only if you agreed. It seems you do not, which would end the discussion there.”

“I want to go,” Stacia said firmly, though her voice was a touch petulant. “I be of age to go iffin I want.”

“I object,” Alistern said firmly.

“Ma said it was okay,” Stacia cut in, “said ya should let me spread me wings, she did.”

Taking a bite of bacon and eggs, Alburet looked to Stewart for clarification. Sighing, Stewart filled him in, “You were asleep and didn’t answer your door last night. Stacia woke her mother to ask about going with you. Lilith agreed readily, seemingly quite happy with the idea. When Stacia came out to tell Alistern things kind of went south. I happen to side with him, by the way. You want to take her into a very risky area for her, since for us normal folk there is no guarantee that we will come back. So you’d be putting her into a position where she might die her final death.”

Finishing his bite, Alburet nodded, “I see, and understand the concerns. Why is Grimgar here?”

“Back in the day Alistern, Stew and meself used to adventure together. It seemed a stalemate with Lilith siding with Stacia while these two were opposed, so they asked me to break the tie. I told them to wait til ye woke. Can ye promise to do ye very best to make sure no harm comes to her?” Alistern and Stewart both got to their feet yelling, only to be shouted down by Grimgar. “Knock it the frack off, both of ye. Ye asked me to break this tie and I am goin’ to, now sit down and abide.”

Alburet met Grimgar’s eyes, “I will move heaven and hell if need be to keep her safe, Grimgar. I will put her life before mine and my other companions, if need be I will have her Homestone away if things look grave.”

“Aye, as I thought ye would. Fine. I side with the lass and Lilith, let her go with him. Iffin he fails we kin gut him a dozen times to drive the point home.” Grimgar said as the other two sat there silently seething, Alistern more than Stewart.

“Thank ya, Unca Grim,” Stacia said, jumping to her feet and hugging the dwarf.

“Aich enough o’ tha’. Eat ye food then get ye goin’,” Grimgar chuckled, pushing her away gently before turning to Alburet, his eyes going flat. “Iffin she dies and does nay come back, I will hunt ye to the last of days.”

Raising a brow, Alburet nodded, “If it comes to that, Grimgar you won’t have to hunt me, I will come to you. One of the reasons I’m here in Alpha World is that I avenged my friend’s daughter when she was raped then broken in mind and body. I would gladly hand my soul over to you if I fail.” He spoke with such conviction that the trio of men at the table looked at each other before standing.

“Aye, I will hold ye to tha’,” Grimgar said, slapping Alburet hard on the back as he left.

“If my god daughter speaks ill of you I will set the world ablaze to find you,” Stewart added, then he also left the room.

Alistern just glowered, snorting as he turned and left the room. Stacia watched them all go with wide shining eyes. “I believe in ya, master.”

Alburet met her eyes with a small smile on his lips, “I meant every word. So your mom liked the idea?”

Stacia got up and came around the table, taking the seat next to him as she also grabbed some food. Alburet saw that she was dressed in pants and shirt, completely unlike her normal apparel. “Aye, she was very happy ta hear of the plan. Did ya want to meet her before we go?”

“I don’t know if I should,” Alburet chuckled, “if she’s anything like you it might go badly for me. Goodness knows I don’t need your father wanting to kill me because I lusted after his wife.”

Stacia giggled, “I take after her just a touch. We will wait until later then, for ya to meet her.”

“Why did you fight so hard for this chance, Stacia?” he asked as he polished off his eggs.

“As I said, I want to be with ya more, master. When I went shoppin’ with Ma the other day she was thrilled at what I told her about ya. She was practically giddy tha’ maybe I found someone worth bein’ with. I tried to tell her it be nay like tha’, but she did nay want to hear tha’ part.”

“Parents are always like that,” Alburet said, thinking of his own mother. His voice dulled as the ache of his mother not talking to him flared momentarily.

“I need to grab the gear Ma said I could use for today. I be right back,” Stacia rushed out of the room.

Alburet finished his coffee before going out to the tap room. Alistern glowered at him silently from behind the bar as he waited for Stacia near the door. A few minutes later Stacia came out of the back dressed in leather. Alburet would have called it armor, but it clearly wasn’t designed with protection in mind so much as distraction. The knee high boots lacked high heels, but they did hug her legs. The leather skirt had extra leather strips sewn to it, giving it a pleated look. The chest piece was horrible for protection as it was contoured to her impressive bust, with an opening over the breast bone giving ample view of her cleavage. She also had upper arm guards and bracers strapped to her arms, along with a collar around her neck. She was also not wearing the clothing she had on a moment ago either wearing just the leather.

She came over to him with a bounce in her step that threatened to distract him before they’d even set out, “I be ready to go.”

Shaking his head, he caught Alistern glowering blackly at them. Offering his arm to Stacia, which she took with a smile, Alburet said, “We’ll be back late Alistern. I will protect her with my life.”

As they walked down the street he was aware of the many men who paused as they passed to admire the sight of Stacia in the leather. “Stacia, where did you get that wardrobe?” he finally asked.

“It was Ma’s when she adventured with Da’, Unca Grim and Stewart. She thought it would fit me as we’re built much alike. After she said I could go I put it on. Maybe I should nay have been wearin’ it when I went to ask Da’.”

Resisting the urge to face palm, Alburet agreed, “Yeah, might have been better. He probably thought that I would just ravish you as soon as I saw you in it. Besides, while it looks fantastic it isn’t the best for protection.”

“I understand tha’, but Ma never got hit really when she was adventurin’.”

“I bet the mobs just stopped attacking and stared at her,” Alburet chuckled. He missed Stacia’s serious nod as he opened up the flashing message icon to find a message from Fluff.

Message from Fluff:

I’m ready to go for more killing Al, meet you at the portal guild?

He sent her back a message that he was already on his way there, adding that they would have a guest with them today. When he finished the message he looked at Stacia. “Okay, the other part of our party is going to meet us at the portal guild. Her name is Fluffball and she’s a Lunari Berserker. I told you about her last night.”

“She is a good friend?” Stacia asked.

“She’s been a good companion to kill things with. She is a nice person but a little shy, so play nice with her okay?”

“As ya wish, master,” Stacia said, squeezing his arm where she held it.

As they approached the portal guild Alburet targeted Stacia and tried to invite her to group. She looked as surprised as Alburet felt when it worked. A moment later Stacia appeared in the group UI showing her to be level ten but with a question mark where her class should have been listed. “Stacia? Why don’t you have a class?”

“I do nay know, it has been a mystery to me family. Me sisters are the same as me, none of us showing a class when inspected. Da’ tried to train us, which did nay work. He had his friends try, but we could nay learn necromancy either.” Stacia shrugged, “I will be fine, though. Ya will be watchin’ out for me.”

They reached portal, guild entering the building to find the waiting area mostly full. They got into line for the reception desk, waiting their turn. Once they got to the front of the line, he smiled at Kim warmly, “Missed you yesterday, Kim. Hope you’re doing well?”

“Yes, thank you. Yesterday was my day off. A new one, hmm? Building a harem maybe?” Kim chuckled, “Where are you off to today?”

“The fort in the orc lands. There will be three of us. Besides, isn’t it every man’s dream to be loved by as many women as possible?”

“True enough, I suppose. That will be one gold and thirty silver each, please.”

Alburet paid for the trio, “I hope you have a good day, Kim.” He dropped an extra gold on the desk, “Keep the change as well.” He took Stacia’s hand and led her to the waiting area. He spotted Fluff just coming in and tossed her an invite. “Hey, Fluff,” he called out, “I paid up, we’re going to the orc lands today. Stacia, this is Fluffball. Fluffball, this is Stacia.”

Stacia smiled broadly, “Good to meet ya, Miss Fluffball. Alburet has told me ya are a good companion and a fierce Berserker.”

Fluff pinked slightly, “It’s good to meet you as well, Stacia. Sadly you have the advantage on me as Alburet hasn’t told me anything about you.”

“Stacia is the daughter of Alistern, the owner of the Dead Man Inn,” Alburet said, taking Fluff’s arm and leading the two women into the waiting area. “She’s been my maid at the inn. Last night she said she would like to go adventuring, so I invited her along. Her armor is her mother’s old armor and I promised her dad to protect her above all else.”

Fluff looked at him with unreadable eyes for a moment before her mouth quirked up, “So, protecting her on her first time out?”

“Pretty much,” Alburet said, looking around but not finding a spot for them to sit.

Rolland went by, nodding at Alburet as he approached a group of three on a sofa. Alburet, seeing the chance, edged the women closer to the sofa as the trio stood up and followed Rolland. The mage winked at Alburet as he went by. Alburet got the women settled, taking the seat in the middle. “Now we just have to wait a few minutes,” he said, draping his along the back of the sofa so he had an arm around each of them.

Fluff glanced at him from the corner of her eye, “So, Stacia, how has Alburet been acting at the inn?”

Stacia beamed, “He has been wonderful, the perfect master.”

Fluff’s eyes went wide as her head turned to fully face them, “Master?”

“Oh yes,” Stacia shivered slightly, “the way he helps keep me grounded with his firm hands. He treats me so sweetly, sharing his meals with me, as well as helping me explore my sexu…”

“Okay, that’s enough,” Alburet interrupted with a cough.

Fluff was red, her mouth open slightly as she looked from the young woman to Alburet and back in mild shock. “He’s slept with you?”

“And so much more,” Stacia said smiling broadly, “would ya like to join us tonight? I really enjoyed the last time another two-souled joined us.”

Alburet winced at how Stacia was making him sound, not that she was really wrong. “Okay, that’s enough of airing my laundry in public, please.” He glanced around, getting a lot of disgusted looks from the women nearby along with some envious looks from the guys.

Stacia looked at him oddly, “Ya should be proud though, master. Ya made Karen and me very happy with the way you worked us so well.”

Alburet buried his face in his palms with a resounding smack, “Gah, enough!”

Fluff giggled at him even though she was crimson, “Stacia, you’re embarrassing him. We can talk more once we’re in the field.”

Stacia frowned, “I don’t understand, though. Any man should be proud if he could be even a fifth of master.”

“I’m easily better than that toothpick, baby,” a deep voice said from the side. When they looked over they found a very large muscled man in chain with a shield on his back standing next to the sofa, leering down at Stacia. “I can protect you more than this lightly armored guy. How about it, want to see what a real man can do for a fine little honey like you?”

Alburet felt his anger rising, only to be surprised when Stacia laughed. “Oh, ya poor man. Ya might be more muscled then me master but I would bet he knows how to work his body better then ya could ever hope to. Besides, he knows so well how to keep a hellion like me in line.”

The man’s face went red, his lip curling into a sneer, “Look, you little bitch…”

Alburet popped to his feet, a tight smile in place, “Let’s take a walk outside, shall we? We can have a duel out there with a wager on the line. If you beat me, you get her for an entire week. If I beat you then you hand over all your gear to her. Are you okay with this, Stacia?”

Stacia looked at Alburet and bowed her head, “As master wishes. I trust ya.”

“So what do you say, Bubba?”

“Yeah that’s fine, but nothing other than melee, no spells or abilities.” The man said with a snicker, “Still game?”

“Sounds fine. Anyone who wants entertainment come on outside,” Alburet said, strolling outside with Stacia and Fluff following him. He tossed Fluff a message asking her to put twenty gold in bets on him.

As he got outside, Alburet targeted the asshole and sent him a duel invite, “Ready?”

Steelwall snorted, “Yeah, I’m ready.” Accepting the duel prompted both of them with a notice.

Wager:

The gods have heard your wager.

The outcome of this duel will be enforced by the gods.

Alburet vaguely heard bets being placed between people who’d come out to watch as the countdown started for the duel. He was a little shocked over the system notification. Shrugging off the notification, he took the two handed axe off his back, grinning as Steelwall’s smile faded slightly, “What, did you expect a staff?”

“Stupid caster, putting points in strength,” Steelwall sneered.

Alburet took note of his opponent’s health, 1200/1200. He would need about eight to ten hits to kill his opponent. His 950/950 health, with the twenty armor mitigation would mean thirty hits or so for him to die. Factor in the shield he would have to deal with and it was going to be close. Alburet took a few steps back, waiting as the timer ticked down the last five seconds.

As the last second ticked away, Steelwall charged right at Alburet with his shield high. Alburet waited, axe held high, as the distance closed. Alburet pulled the axe in and rolled past Steelwall on the sword side. As he came back up he lashed out with the axe blindly, feeling the resistance that meant he’d hit Steelwall.

Steelwall cussed as he spun to face Alburet again, his leg bloody, “What the fuck? No way you should be able to hit that hard!”

Alburet chuckled, pulling the axe back up into high guard, “Critical to the knee. How did it feel to lose over three hundred in one go? Now we’re on even footing.”

The crowd had gone quiet seeing the critical take such a large chunk of Steelwall’s health away, but now the sound picked back up as people began debating how that was possible. Steelwall glanced at the crowd with a smile, “That’s right. He has to be cheating, don’t you think?”

As Steelwall looked at the crowd around them Alburet lunged forward, hooking the top of the shield with his axe and yanked it hard. Steelwall stumbled, dropping to a knee as he tried to bring the shield back up while slashing wildly to keep Alburet back. Alburet though, had stepped past and brought the axe down on the back of his opponent’s neck, getting another critical. Not letting his advantage go, Alburet brought the axe back and down again. Steelwall got the shield over his head, blocking the second strike, and stood up.

Dancing back quickly, Alburet smiled, “You have no idea how to really use that thing, or at least not let it be a hindrance. So to make yourself feel better you have to think I’m cheating somehow?” He laughed as he kept back stepping while shaking his head. “Now that your health is halved, do you want to concede?”

“Fuck you, I’m going to beat you and take that sweet piece of ass. Once I’m done with her she won’t even look at you again,” Steelwall spat.

“Ya want this ass?” Stacia said loudly, followed by a loud meaty smack as she slapped her own ass.

Steelwall’s eyes drifted to the left where Stacia was wiggling her ass, her skirt flipped up to show matching leather panties. As soon as his eyes shifted Alburet charged in, swinging wide on purpose. Steelwall swung his shield up and out to block the axe that he’d tried to bait Alburet into swinging. He failed to notice that the axe missed his shield, thinking he had played it right. He was surprised when the axe came up from the ground and into his leg even as his sword finally hit Alburet.

Hissing in pain, Alburet stepped away to put a bit of distance between him and Steelwall. “Your four hundred health against my nine hundred plus. Man, you really do suck to let a caster out melee you.”

Roaring, Steelwall charged holding his shield just high enough to see over, with his sword pulled back. Knowing it was going to hurt like hell, Alburet stepped into the sword stroke willingly, lashing out with the axe as Steelwall couldn’t rotate far enough to block while he was attacking to his sword side. The axe glanced off Steelwall’s shoulder as the two separated again. Alburet was clenching his teeth against the pain as Steelwall blinked, noting how badly Alburet seemed to be injured.

“Oh, I got you now,” Steelwall roared, coming forward fast and punching out with the shield, catching Alburet as he spun to the side.

Alburet winced at the impact of the shield bash which also knocked him far enough out to stop him from connecting with his own attack. Breathing hard against the pain Alburet planted his feet, lowering the axe towards the ground as he watched Steelwall get ready for another charge. Alburet leaned slightly to his opponent’s sword side as he swallowed. “I’ll get you this time,” he said, eyeing Steelwall’s sword side again.

Steelwall smirked, thinking he had figured out the Alburet’s plan. “I got you now, asshole.” With that he charged again, shield ready to strike as he saw Alburet shift further towards his sword side. Shifting the shield slightly he lashed out, connecting with Alburet. Alburet dropped to the ground as the shield clipped him, tangling his axe between Steelwall’s feet. Steelwall stumbled as he literally ran over Alburet, the stumble turned into a face plant a foot past the Summoner.

Groaning in pain Alburet rolled over, bringing the axe around to lash out over him as he completed the roll. It landed squarely on Steelwall’s back, knocking him to one hit point and ending the duel. Alburet pulled the axe back, raising a hand into the air, “I win.”

Stacia and Fluff ran over to him as his wounds began to heal, “I knew ya would win, master.”

“That was unorthodox and very lively,” Fluff said, looking down at the grinning Summoner. “Let me go collect then we should check to see if we missed our portal.”

Stacia helped him to his feet, smiling the whole time, “Ya were amazing, master.”  Her other arm held a bag that held Steelwall's gear which he had lost in the bet.

No sooner than those words left her mouth then she shrieked as Steelwall grabbed her by the hair, “You little bitch, you set me up. Give me back my stuff or else!”

A bolt of lightning flashed out of the clear sky into Steelwall. He seized up and crumpled to the ground as Rolland appeared in the portal guild’s doorway. “We will not tolerate assault on the grounds of the guild. Also, duels are now forbidden on the grounds as well.” Rolland stood by the door to the building looking very menacing. “Do I make myself clear?” The crowd nodded, murmuring assent. The level eighty Elementalist nodded. “Right. Alburet, your group’s portal is ready. Please follow me.”

Alburet made sure Stacia was okay before taking her arm and leading her into the building right behind Fluff, who was shaking her head. They followed Rolland in silence up to the portal room. “Please don’t instigate trouble again, Alburet,” Rolland said.

Alburet nodded, “Wasn’t my intention, Rolland. Once he called Stacia a bitch I had to do something.” Shrugging, he motioned the women to the portal, “Off you go, ladies.” Once they went through he handed Rolland two gold, “Thanks for the save at the end though, eh.”

Rolland chuckled, pocketing the gold, “You bet. You are one of the very few who tip us, after all. Good hunting.”

Stepping onto the rune, he found himself at the fort near the orc lands. Stacia and Fluff were waiting by the gate where the two guards were obviously chatting Stacia up. Alburet walked over to hear one of the guards ask if she wanted to have her body guarded.

“Down boy, she has all the protection she needs in me,” Alburet interjected as he stopped next to the women.

The guard eyed him for a moment, “Are you Alburet?”

Eyebrow raising, he nodded, “Yup.”

“Well then, I guess she’ll be fine. We heard about you helping train some of the guards. We just started a new morning program based on that training, it’s being taught to all the guards now.” The private’s voice held respect, “Good hunting with the Orcs today.”

“Thank you,” Alburet replied before summoning Bob and Tiny. “A big group makes the day fly right on by.”

The guard froze for a second at the sight of the demons before nodding, “As you say, sir.”

“We are hunting Orcs today?” Tiny asked in his customary rumble as he looked out across the grasslands.

“That is the plan,” Alburet said, glancing down at Bob who was staring at Stacia with a puzzled expression. “Bob, you okay?”

Tearing his eyes off of Stacia, Bob nodded, “Yes, master. Who is the new girl? Are you starting up a harem?”

Rolling his eyes as Stacia giggled Alburet replied, “Not that I know of, but you’re the second one today to ask me that. This is Stacia, she’s joining us for at least today.” Turning to Tiny he continued, “Tiny, your first priority today is to keep Stacia safe from all harm. If you have to choose just one of us to save, it is to be her.”

“Yes, master,” Tiny rumbled, taking two steps to stand next to Stacia. “I will keep you safe.”

Stacia looked up at Tiny with a grin, “You remind me of Theoliphius, my father’s Destroyer.”

“I need to offload all of this junk from yesterday.” Alburet broke away from the group to speak with the quartermaster, who was also the smith at this fort. After unloading his bag of junk and getting some gold in return he went back to the gate. “Okay, we’re ready to go. Let’s head off towards the tree I was at the other day. The patrols there are nice and steady.”

The group set out across the grasslands. As they approached the first patrol Alburet buffed Tiny. When he was all buffed up, Tiny ran a few steps ahead of the others to get the attention of the patrol. The Warg Handler turned his warg loose onto Tiny as he and the Orc Rover with him also closed the distance. Tiny got a solid hit in on the warg as the combat started.

Letting out a howl of pain, the warg lunged for Tiny’s leg, just grazing the demon as Tiny sidestepped. Alburet ignited his axe as he came up behind Tiny, waiting to join in. Fluff had pulled her two handed weapon and went to the other side of Tiny, staying a step back so Tiny could get aggro on the Orcs who were nearly in melee range now.

Stacia stayed a few steps back next to Bob, who began to toss his Fire Blasts at the warg. Tiny landed a second strike on the warg before turning his attention to the Orcs who had finally reached him. Fluff slid around behind Tiny, putting herself at his back and cutting the warg off from attacking Tiny from behind. As the warg tried to go around Fluff, it got an axe firmly planted into its shoulders right on the spine from Alburet, causing a big chunk of its life to vanish. Fluff wasted no time as the warg howled again, launching her own attack as the warg spun towards Alburet. Her axe connected with its side, causing it to stumble.

“Stunning Strike worked,” Fluff said with a cheer as she pulled her axe back for another blow.

Alburet beat her to the punch, his axe crashing firmly down on the stunned warg’s skull with a grisly sound. The warg shook its head, baring its fangs at Alburet just as Bob's Fire Blast hit it and Fluff’s axe slammed into it again, this time killing it. Wasting no time the trio turned their attention to the orc Tiny had been damaging while they killed the warg.

Alburet beckoned to Stacia, who stood back with her mouth open in fascination as she watched the speed and damage the group was causing, “Come, join in.”

He turned back to the orc and slashed with his axe, getting a solid hit into the orc’s side. Fluff, not to be outdone also connected, her strike pulling more life off the unfortunate orc just as a Fire Blast hit it as well. Stacia came in more slowly, a dagger in her hand, as if uncertain about how to fit in. Alburet stepped a bit further around the orc to give her a little more space. Still nervous, Stacia lunged forward, her dagger sinking into the Orcs hide. It did minimal damage but still hurt it. Yanking the dagger out she stepped back as if afraid it would turn on her. That wasn’t likely with Alburet, Fluff and Bob all hitting it again. Those three attacks left it with a sliver of life, at which point Alburet left it and went to the last orc. Fluff stayed with Stacia as Bob shifted his target as well.

“You got this, Stacia,” Fluffball said encouragingly, “just stab it one or two more times.”

Nodding, Stacia lunged in again sinking the dagger into the orc for a second time. Yanking the blade free she quickly struck a third and fourth time in rapid succession. The last attack was enough to kill the Orc, which gurgled as it collapsed to the ground. Feeling bolder now that she had killed her first monster, Stacia jumped in with the others on the last of the patrol. The others all stopped when it reached low hit points and let Stacia finish it off. As it died the group let out a small cheer for Stacia, who was engulfed in a flash of light.

“You leveled, well done Stacia,” Alburet said, hugging her with one arm, his axe in his other hand. “See? I told you everything would be fine.”

“Aye, master. I never doubted ya,” Stacia said as she knelt, touching the orc, which vanished as she looted it. “It only had coin?”

“That is very common,” Fluff said as she rested her axe on her shoulder. “I’m sure we’ll end up with more loot by the time we stop, though.”

The group looted the other corpses and set out again. They slaughtered at least two dozen patrols before they reached the tree that Alburet was aiming for. It was the tree the messengers had met under the other day. Knowing the spawn rate, the group settled in for a nice relaxing day of slaughtering the Orcs. While they rested briefly between packs they would chat about different things. Stacia did at one point start to go into detail about all the wonderful things Alburet had done for her.

Alburet listened for a few moments as Stacia started off talking about how he had treated her with respect. He turned his attention to the fields around them, waiting for a new patrol to appear. It wasn’t until Bob broke out laughing that Alburet glanced over at the women. Fluffball was wide eyed and crimson as she stared at Stacia with rapt fascination. Stacia was describing in detail how Alburet had taken her by force the first time.

Spluttering slightly, Alburet cut in, “Stop! Stacia, there is no reason to go into detail like that. Besides, Fluff doesn’t want to hear that.”

Stacia blinked, looking at him, “But master, she asked why I be so enamored with ya. I be just tellin’ her the truth. Never have I felt so complete as when ya control me.” She shivered at the last few words, her eyes glazing slightly.

Covering his face with one hand he groaned silently, wondering what he had done to her. Bob was cackling like this was the best entertainment he had ever had. Alburet finally gathered his words to reply to Stacia, “Unless she says she wants to hear graphic details, do not share any.”

Stacia pouted, “As ya wish, master.”

Fluff shook her head as if coming out of a trance, her face still crimson. Before she could say anything Tiny rumbled out his warning of a patrol coming their way. Alburet buffed Tiny up as the others got to their feet and readied themselves for battle. The rest of the day went relatively smoothly. Stacia never came close to pulling aggro, only taking a single wound all day which healed in seconds after combat was over. The conversations never went back to X-rated topics, much to Alburet’s relief. He didn’t want to alienate Fluff, he really did enjoy her company. He did notice her giving him the occasional odd look as the day wore on. The trio shared Alburet’s jerky, cheese and tea in the field, staying out until the sun was about to set.

“I think it’s about time to call it a day,” Alburet said, happy that everyone had leveled at least once. He was looking forward to seeing what abilities he would be able to pick up from Stewart. Everyone used their Homestones to teleport back to Stormguard, agreeing to meet at Grimgar’s to sell loot as Alburet was carrying most of it. Stacia appeared right next to him outside the inn, so he wrapped her in a hug and gave her a kiss. Once they broke for air he said, “That is your reward for not going back to the topic I asked you to stay away from.”

“I think more is required. Master. It was very hard for me not to share,” Stacia said as she nuzzled his neck, “please.”

A shiver of desire lanced though him at her words, “Later, kitten. Right now we need to sell loot off, then we’ll go find some dinner before we come back here. If you’re really good until we get back to our room I’ll give you another hard spanking, just the way you like.”

Panting slightly, Stacia nodded, “As ya wish, master. I’ll be a good kitten for ya.”

Taking her arm in his, he led her down the street towards Grimgar’s Weaponry to meet up with Fluffball. The trio reunited just outside the shop, going in as a group. The bell announced them, bringing Grimgar out to meet them. He smiled when as he saw them, “Glad to see I will nay have to be huntin’ ya down, Alburet.” He turned his attention to Stacia, “How was ya first hunt, lass?”

Stacia beamed at him, “Wonderful, Unca Grim! Fluffball was amazin’ with her axe work, she was always knowin’ where she should be. Master kept me safe the entire time, he made sure his Destroyer, Tiny, made me the priority to keep safe.”

Nodding, Grimgar turned to Alburet, “Glad to hear tha’. Now tha’ I’m sure everythin’ be okay, wha’ can I be doin’ for ye?”

The group unloaded all the weapons they’d looted onto his counter. “We need to sell these and split it three ways,” Alburet said as he put down the last axe.

Grimgar blinked, a smile spreading over his face, “Aye, be glad to do tha’.” He quickly took stock of the weapons before handing each of them ten gold. “There ya are.”

Stacia tried to hand her gold to Alburet, who shook his head. “But master, as ya are me owner this belongs to ya.”

“No. That is yours and yours alone, Stacia. As a valued member of our party you contributed to our success, so you get an equal share. You can do anything you wish with it except give it to me.”

You are now Friendly with Grimgar Smith.

“Listen to him lass, tha’ be how real adventurin’ is done. Everyone gets an equal share,” Grimgar said, nodding at Alburet with respect.

“Ma did nay get an equal share when…” Stacia began only to get cut off by Grimgar.

“Tha’ be a special case, lass. Ya Ma can explain it to ye. Now tha’ business be done, why don ye go home and make ye Da’ happy to know ye be fine, eh?”

“Actually, we have leather and mail armor to sell first,” Alburet said. “Then we were going to go find a place for dinner to celebrate her first successful hunt.”

“I know of the perfect place,” Grimgar said. “Give me ye map and I’ll mark it. I’ll also tell them to set a table aside for the event.” Alburet held out his map to Grimgar who pulled out his own map and tapped it to Alburet’s. “The Victory Lap, they be known for celebratory diners.”

“Okay, we’ll go there. Thanks, Grimgar,” Alburet said, opening the door for the women.

Stacia gave Grimgar a hug before heading out the door. The trio went off to sell the chain armor before ending up at Tanned Hides. Almira greeted them with a professional smile until she saw Stacia. “Stacia, what are you doing with these two?”

“I was huntin’ with them today,” Stacia said with a broad smile.

Almira blinked, “Your father let you go hunting?”

“It took a bit of convincin’,” Stacia replied.

“I bet, he has always been very protective of you and your sisters.” She turned to Fluffball and Alburet, her smile widening. “You have more to sell me, I bet. Glad to see she was out with a two-souled who knows their manners.”

“I did promise to keep her safe or I would turn myself over to Grimgar to slaughter endlessly,” Alburet said with a wry smile. “So of course I tasked my trusted Destroyer to guard her with his life.”

Whistling softly, Almira shook her head, “I don’t think you understand exactly what Grimgar is capable of doing if you agreed to that. Needless to think about though, as Stacia obviously made it safely through her first hunt.”

“Did nay die even once, only got hurt once and tha’ was me own fault,” Stacia said as she put her loot up on the counter as the others did so. “We need to sell these, iffin ya don’ mind.”

“Of course I don’t. The crown reimburses us for buying what adventurers bring us,” Almira chuckled. She looked over the gear and handed each of them nine gold, “There you are.”

Stacia blinked, “More in one hunt then I made me whole life at the inn.”

“True, but you have the chance of dying the final death hunting,” Almira pointed out. “Are you off to the inn to let your father know?”

“Actually, we’re going to be taking her to dinner first to celebrate,” Alburet said. “Grimgar was making a reservation for us at the Victory Lap.”

Almira’s eyes sparkled, “Oh, was he now? Well, go enjoy your meal. I’m sure tonight will be filled with joy.” She walked them out of the shop, waving goodbye as they set off down the street.

After a bit of a walk they got to the Victory Lap. The exterior had roman columns crowned with figures in various poses denoting victory. Opening the door Alburet, ushered the women in before him. They found themselves in a small anteroom where a single gentleman covered in scars stood behind a small podium.

“Welcome to the Victory Lap, who is the reservation for?”

“Good question, that,” Alburet chuckled. “Let’s see if we can get a fire started here. Grimgar was making the reservation, but I don’t know if it was under his name, or Stacia Crowley’s name, or perhaps even under my name, Alburet.”

The maitre d’ eyed him briefly, nodding, “The reservation is for Stacia Crowley, as the rooms are always reserved under the name of celebrant. If you will wait one moment.”

Alburet offering an arm to each of the women as they waited. A few minutes later a woman came through the door behind the maitre d’, “Your room is ready. If you will follow me?”

They followed the woman down a richly furnished hallway, passing numerous doors until she stopped before one of them. She opened the door, stepping inside and to the side to bow them in. “Please have a seat at the spot with your name. Servers will be with you shortly.”

As Alburet passed the woman he noted the very thin scars crisscrossing on the backs of her hands. He gave her a pleasant smile as he went to seat his companions, wondering why the table had so many extra settings. None of the other places had names next to them. Taking the seat between Stacia and Fluffball, he wondered what they would be waiting for. A few minutes later the door opened again, the same woman bowing in more people. Grimgar was the first one through the door, followed by Almira, Stewart, Alistern and finally a stunningly beautiful woman with bright red hair. Alburet felt his breath stop for a moment upon seeing her.

He stood up, greeting the four additions, now understanding why the table had so many extra seats. Alistern sat the redhead next to him on his left as he took the single seat at the head of the table, which put Stacia on his right in the place of honor. Grimgar ended up across from Alburet, a smirk on his face after he seated Almira to his side. Stewart took the seat at the foot of the table. Once everyone was seated, Alburet sat back down as well.

“Now, this is how a celebration should be. Family and friends celebratin’ together,” Grimgar said.

Alburet nodded before turning to Alistern, “Sir, I do not think you have met our companion Fluffball. She was with us today as we hunted orcs,” Alburet made introductions for Fluffball around the table, pausing at the redhead since he didn’t know her name.

“This be me wife, Lilith Crowley,” Alistern added when Alburet paused.

“It is a pleasure and honor to meet you, Mrs. Crowley,” Alburet said.

The throaty voice reached out and plucked at Alburet’s primal urges as Lilith spoke, “The pleasure is all mine.”

Alistern’s eyes flashed red as he stared at his wife, “Ya promised to nay do anythin’ like tha’ tonight.”

“Oh, yes. I forgot dear. I guess you will just have to punish me later,” Lilith said with a sweet smile before looking back at Alburet. “I do apologize for my true voice coming out like that.”

Swallowing, Alburet gave a polite nod as his body calmed down, “Forgiven.”

A cough from Grimgar got their attention, “Now tha’ we all be here, let’s get this celebration under way, aye?” He picked up a small crystal bell and jingled it. A moment later the door opened and a dozen people all came in with carts.

The staff began to set a truly massive feast out on the table along with numerous pitchers of various drinks. Alburet noticed that the staff all carried scars. As the last of the food was laid out the staff filed right back out the door. As the door shut behind them Alburet looked at Grimgar, “Why are they all scarred?”

“Ah, tha’ be because they all used to be champions, lad. Each one of them used to hold the top spot in the arena here in the city. This be a retirement for them tha’ wants it, they work for five hours and get to split half of what the house takes in for the night, which is a very pretty gold indeed. Now, a toast,” Grimgar said, changing the topic as he stood and hoisted his mug. “To Stacia, who has gone into the world and come back again. Ye first hunt was successful as ye fought alongside ye friends. Friends and family be wha’ life be all about, and ye seem to have found a real good friend.”

They drank to his toast before Stacia stood up, holding her own mug which she had filled with mead. “A toast, to me family who even with reservations allowed me to go on me first hunt with me master Alburet. Also to me master Alburet, he who is showin’ me the world in many ways. I ha’ been blessed to ha’ meet ya and have had ya take me…” She trailed off with a wink at him as she tilted her mug for a drink.

Almira and Lilith giggled at her ending before drinking with her. Alburet drank, only too aware of the eyes of Stewart, Grimgar and Alistern burrowing into him. The evening was filled with truly good food that would have been at home in any of the very best restaurants on Earth. Conversation was mostly stories from the others at the table, recalling their adventures together before they had settled down in Stormguard after the death of Alistern’s father had left him the family inn.

Eventually the meal came to an end with Almira, Grimgar and Stewart the first to leave as a group. Fluffball stood up a few minutes later, “I thank you for inviting me to dinner with your friends and family.” Fluff bowed to Alistern and Lilith before she started for the door.

Lilith called out to her, catching Fluff by the door, “Dear, you are welcome at our inn any time. My daughter has taken a liking to you and considers you a friend. On top of that the one she calls master holds a spot for you in his heart. It was a pleasure to have met you, and I hope to see you again.”

Fluffball blinked, her face pinking before she bowed again, “Thank you, Lilith.”

“Oh, and if you ever want to talk about your troubles I might be able to help with that. We shall save that conversation for a more private moment, though. I wish you a pleasant night.”

Fluffball gulped and hastily groomed an ear, leaving the room a moment later. Alistern got to his feet, his eyes going to Alburet, “Me daughter seems smitten with ya. I will only say it once more; iffin ya hurt her I will pay ya back with interest.” He took Lilith by the hand and led her out of the room.

Alburet watched the couple go before he got to his feet, taking Stacia’s hand, “We should head home for the night as well.”

“As ya wish, master,” Stacia said as she took his arm.

Alburet

Human Summoner

Level 15

Strength: 20

Agility: 20

Constitution: 25

Intelligence: 46

Wisdom: 50

Charisma: 30

Health: 1000

Mana: 1250

Spells:

Demon Skin-Rank 2

Demonic Retribution- Rank 2

Summon Least Imp

Fire Blast- Rank 2

Sap Strength

Demonic Haze

Summon Lesser Destroyer

Demonic Vitality

Fire Burst

Abilities:

Personal Spells

Flame Weapon

1 Ability to train; see your trainer

Orc Village

After waking up and enjoying breakfast with Stacia, Alburet told her he would be back shortly as he had to see Stewart about training his ability. Making his way down the stairs, he found one of Stacia’s sisters behind the bar. “Morning. Is Stewart in the deep dark hall?” Alburet asked.

Stacia’s sister looked him up and down with pursed lips for a second before shaking her head, “I think I can see what she does in you, but no he isn’t. He just stepped out the front door. He may be sitting on the bench we keep outside, he does that sometimes.”

Alburet smirked at her first sentence before shaking his head. It was bad enough that Stacia, Karen and Fluffball all seemed interested in him as it was, so he was glad Stacia's sister didn't throw herself at him too. He thanked her offhandedly as he made his way to the door, his mind considering the women issues he had. Karen was fine, she would be a decent person to fight with who maybe wanted action on the side at times. Stacia seemed obsessed to a degree that he couldn’t figure out. Even she couldn’t really put it into words. Lastly, there was Fluffball. If he wasn’t a condemned man who was sentenced to live the rest of his life as a VR experiment he might have tried to get closer to her. As it was he felt a connection to her as she was the shy type he liked to mold to his own desires. Plus being into anime as much as he was, he thought. Over all though, if he was going to hook up with anyone Stacia was probably the best bet. He doubted his past would phase her or cause her problems and hell, he was probably going to be here for a few years anyway.

Stewart glanced at Alburet as he came out the door, “Morning, Alburet.”

Alburet shook his head to clear his rambling thoughts before greeting Stewart. “Morning, Stewart. I was hoping to train my next ability this morning before heading out for another hunt. Oh, curious as well if you might know why Stacia doesn’t have a class. You’ve known the family since before she was born, so I thought you might have a clue.”

Stewart frowned, “No, none of us do. We’ve tried a lot of different things and sources to get more information. As for training, yes, but it means going once more down into the pit.” He got to his feet stretching, watching the sun light brighten the day. “Are you taking Stacia with you again?”

“Probably,” Alburet replied, “I’ll leave that up to her, though. Even though she calls me master it’s not as if actually own her. I have not purchased her, collared her or placed a compulsion on her. As such I will not order her to risk her life, slim though that risk may be, to accompany me.”

“I’ve been wondering about that. She has never shown such focused intent on a man before you came along and while you are unusual, more than just being two-souled, you don’t seem to possess anything that would explain her intense feelings. How and why did she begin to call you by that title, if I may ask?” Stewart asked as the duo began to trek down into the bowels of the earth under the inn.

Alburet gave him a very brief rundown of the night that led up to her asking to call him by that title. “So with all that said, I don’t know why she was intent on that title either.”

Frowning, Stewart took his seat as they arrived at his desk, “Very unusual. I shall have to ask a few people who owe me favors to see if they can get me any information from greater beings than us mere mortals. As for your ability choices this level, the two you passed by the first time are still available as well as the next two. I can’t wait to see what you take this time.”

Alburet looked down at the book Stewart had opened and placed before him. He could still take Infernal Fire for 10% more fire damage, which might mean for the flame weapon as well. The other was the one he wouldn’t take, Heavenly Summoner. The first new ability was Ranged Fire Burst, it made his Fire Burst spell go from the twenty foot explosion centered on himself to one he could toss out up to a hundred feet away. The last option he had for this level was Demon Copy. It would let him summon an exact copy of one of his demons for half again the mana cost it normally took to summon the demon and both the original and copy each ended up with 75% of the normal stats of the original.

Alburet did some math in his head, factoring in Bob’s happiness with him and the bonuses that gave him to his stats. Factor in that instead of losing 10% of his mana it would take a total of 15% to have Bob and Copy Bob to both be up at the same time. Alburet chewed his lip as he considered all the ways the Copy Ability could be used before he nodded his head. He could always summon two Tinys so he could have an off tank to do things like pick up ranged mobs, or he could have an extra 50% damage if he had two Bobs. Decision made, he touched the Demon Copy ability.

“First normal choice I’ve seen you take. Well, normal for people like me. All the two-souled I’ve dealt with almost always take the ranged Fire Burst instead. It’s as if they can’t understand how important it is to keep their demons happy.” Stewart said, taking the book back from Alburet and putting it in his desk.

“Well, the math works out to give me an increase in damage if I use two imps, more if I can get Bob to max happiness. Or, when necessary I can have two destroyers with one dedicated to pick up adds, or dedicated to just protecting Stacia,” Alburet said with a smirk.

Stewart chuckled, getting to his feet, “I see. It does me good to know you are considering that a priority. If we are done, I think I’m going back upstairs to get some coffee.”

“Sounds like a good idea. I need to see what Stacia would like to do today, as well,” Alburet said, stepping towards the rune.

Stewart coughed once to get Alburet’s attention before he stepped on the rune. “How serious are you about her exactly, Alburet? None of us has asked if you are trying for more than just casual sex.”

Alburet shrugged, “As soon as I can figure it out in my own head I’ll let you know. I’m torn on whether a two-souled has any right to court one of this world or not. As for Stacia specifically, I do like her a great deal but I’m not sure I should end up in a relationship with anyone.” He turned his head just enough to catch Stewart’s eyes, “I have done things that while right were also very wrong in other ways. It’s a weight I carry and will for the rest of my days and because of that I find myself wary of embracing others. If they find out my crimes they very well might cast me away, as my own family has done.” He stepped onto the rune, vanishing from the darkness to reappear in the light of day.

Pushing the thoughts aside, he hurried into the inn to see what Stacia would like to do for the day. He was going hunting regardless. As he climbed the stairs he got a message from Fluffball, he paused to read it.

Message from Fluffball:

I’m thinking of hunting the Orcs again today, but this time picking up the quests from the fort. I would also like to talk with Stacia about her mom, if you don’t mind me taking her time for a bit.

Instead of replying right away he went up to his room, entering to find Stacia getting her gear on. A smile twitched at his lips as he watched her get dressed in the leathers. Her eyes were sparkling when she noticed him. Closing the door, he leaned against the wall enjoying the view as Stacia somehow made putting clothes on as much of a show as taking them off usually was.

“Are we off to hunt, master?” Stacia said once she was ready.

“Possibly. I was meaning to go hunting again, but was unsure if you wanted to come along today or go spend all your wealth.”

“I would rather be by ya side, master,” Stacia said, coming over to stand before him. “Unless ya wish me to stay behind.”

Alburet embraced her gently as he replied, “You can come. Fluffball wants to hunt Orcs again so we should hook up with her again today. She was also asking if she could take up some of your time to discuss something about your mom. I wanted to check with you first,” Alburet told her as he held her to him.

“Aye, that be fine master. Shall we invite her over here before we head out then?”

Alburet sent Fluff a message letting her know that Stacia agreed and to come on over to the inn. He sighed, “Guess we’ll have a late start to the day. Why don’t you go get some tea so we can greet her properly, kitten.”

Stacia leaned in, stealing a quick kiss before she slipped away, “As ya wish, master.”

Stacia returned to the room a few minutes before Fluffball knocked on the door. Stacia welcomed Fluff into the room as Alburet stood by the table. “Hey Fluff, welcome to my room. Would you like some tea while we talk?” Alburet asked, holding up a cup.

“Err, I was hoping to speak with Stacia alone, if that’s okay,” Fluff said nervously.

Alburet nodded, setting the cup down, “Lady talk, got it. I’ll be downstairs. Come get me when we’re ready to go kill some Orcs.” Alburet said, making his way out of the room. He wondered what Fluffball could possibly want to talk about that she didn’t want to discuss in front of him. Shaking his head at how odd women could be he went downstairs to wait. He snagged a mug of dark ale as he took a seat at the bar.

An hour later the women came downstairs. Alburet was chatting with a seemingly friendly Alistern and didn’t see them come down the stairs. Stacia approached, gently touching Alburet’s shoulder, “We be ready now, master.”

“Oh,” Alburet said as his muscles relaxed after the unexpected touch on his shoulder. “Okay. We’re heading out, Alistern. I’ll do as I said though, so worry not.”

“I will always worry when me girl be out huntin’, but after we discussed ya plans mayhap I will worry a mite less,” Alistern replied before turning to his daughter. “Be careful Stacia. More deaths are because of over confidence durin’ a hunt than anything else.”

Stacia leaned over the bar giving her father a brief hug, “I promise, Da’. Alburet will guard me with his life, no worries.”

The trio left the inn, heading out to the portal guild. As they walked Alburet looked over at Fluff, who seemed to be lost in thought. He sent her and Stacia a group invite, which was accepted by both of them. Stacia took his left arm proudly, as any woman might of a man she adored. After a few more steps Fluff took his other arm a little hesitantly, glancing at Stacia who nodded encouragingly.

They got to the portal guild, finding it as busy as the day before. They exchanged pleasantries with Kim briefly before going off to wait. Alburet spotted the envious looks a few of the single male adventurers threw at him while they waited. When Rolland retrieved them for their portal, Alburet tipped him as had become habit before he used the teleport.

“We should get the quests from here before we head out,” Fluffball said when he appeared.

“Good plan. Can’t believe we didn’t do it yesterday,” Alburet agreed as they headed inside to get the quests for the Orcs.

They entered the fort proper to find a sergeant behind a desk in then main room, who watched them with interest as they approached. “How can I help you folks?” The sergeant asked as they got to the desk.

“We’re going to be out thinning the Orcs today, so we thought it prudent to stop by and see if you had any quests for us, sir,” Alburet replied, taking an at ease stance before the sergeant.

“Yeah, there are a few things you can do depending on just how aggressive you want to be. Kill off thirty orcs for one of them, ten wargs for another, and if you’re feeling really froggy you can assault the orc village and kill the current Chief.”

“We’ll see what we can do for you, sir,” Alburet said, giving a salute before the trio took their leave.

Quest: Kill thirty Orcs

Reward: Increased Reputation with Stormguard Guard factions plus ten gold.

Quest: Kill ten Wargs

Reward: Increased Reputation with Stormguard Guard factions plus ten gold.

Quest: Kill the Orc Chieftain

Reward: Increased Reputation with Stormguard Guard factions and an item from the Quartermaster

“Fluff, the quests show you XP rewards as well as rep rewards right?” Alburet asked as they left the main fort.

“Yes. The only reason it wouldn’t would be if you disabled all XP notifications,” Fluffball replied as they stopped at the gate.

“Oh good. Did you get the quests as well, Stacia?”

“Aye, master,” Stacia replied, checking her daggers, “I be all ready.”

Alburet grinned as he summoned Bob and Tiny to his side, “Welcome back boys. More Orcs today. If we feel really ballsy we might try for the village to kill the chief.”

“Well, if you’re the one leading us it might be in doubt,” Bob snickered.

Rolling his eyes Alburet ignored the imp, “Tiny, you’re about to have a twin.” With that said he used his new ability as he targeted Tiny. He watched as a second Tiny, shaded a little darker, pop into existence next to the original. “Awesome. So how do I address you, new Tiny?”

The original Tiny turned to Alburet, “It is still me. Just give your orders and I will direct me and my shadow.”

“Interesting, indeed. Have your shadow guard Stacia first and foremost. His second concern is to pick up any adds that you do not have control of in melee, including picking up ranged adds so they don’t target the rest of us.”

“Yes, master,” Tiny rumbled, both he and the shadow nodding in unison.

“So it’s like having another hand?” Fluff asked, curious as to how it worked.

“Very similar to that,” Tiny agreed.

“So I have me own personal Destroyer?” Stacia asked, looking at the darker Tiny.

The darker Tiny rumbled, “Yes.”

Alburet chuckled, “Glad I picked two Tinys and not two Bobs then.”

Bob blew a raspberry, “You just don’t want her dad angry with you.”

Shrugging Alburet replied, “Partially. Tiny, you take point. Let’s move out and get this show on the road, it’s only seven hours or so until sundown.”

As they moved out and began their systematic slaughter of the Orcs Fluffball spoke up. “The Orc Village is an instanced area, we’ll want a full party for that.”

“Good to know. We’ll worry about it after we grind for a bit,” Alburet said as they engaged the first group of Orcs.

The next three hours went by with quickly as they resumed their routine for killing the orc patrols. Alburet considered how hard it would be to solo out here with the small groups, glad he was a pet class so could handle multiple mobs. Others would need groups to even give it a good attempt. He chuckled softly at one point as he considered how rarely he had even soloed since he picked his class. His minions were what really helped out with killing stuff. Bob did okay damage but having Tiny was a god send. Not having to take damage most of the time was great as he was never a big fan of pain.

They took a break, nibbling some jerky. Alburet sent Gerald a message asking if he and Marysue were up to raiding the Orc Village. After their snack, they continued with their slaughter of the Orcs. After a few groups he noticed the message icon flashing, so he called a pause to check it.

Message from Gerald:

We’re up for it, do we need extra or do you have two others with you?

Alburet sent back a message, telling Gerald that they only needed him and Marysue. A moment later Gerald’s reply came back saying they would be there in an hour. Alburet informed the other two, “Gerald and Marysue will be along to help tackle the village in about an hour. Let’s head back to the fort so we can meet them there.”

The group began to retrace their steps to the fort, killing all the respawns on the way. Stacia leveled on the last group before the fort. She beamed at them, thanking them as they congratulated her. They waited around after selling off the loot they’d collected to the quartermaster. Almost an hour from the message Gerald and Marysue appeared near the gates. Alburet called out to them.

Alburet introduced Stacia to the other two, who looked at her oddly, Gerald spoke up asking the question that they both had. “Why doesn’t she have a class? How is that even possible?”

Alburet gave them a brief summary of the issues Stacia had in that regard. “So, while she doesn’t have a class she’s still useful and I can summon two Bobs instead of two Tinys which will help balance out any loss of damage.”

Lips pursed, Gerald was about to say something when Marysue spoke up, “Well, it is nice to meet you Stacia. Are you sure you want to go with us?”

“Aye. I wish to be by master’s side as much as I can,” Stacia nodded. “I will do me very best.”

Lips puckered like he just bit a lemon Gerald replied, “Great, but if the damage looks too low we’re going to call it a bust.”

Nodding Alburet agreed, “That will be fine. Shall we get going then?”

The party moved out after the new members picked up the quests from the sergeant inside. Easily slaughtering the patrols that got in their way, the party made it to the Orc Village which was surrounded by a wooden palisade. Gerald led them around the wall to the portal, “This is it.” He entered, followed quickly by Marysue and Fluffball. Alburet paused, noting Stacia eyeing the swirling mists dubiously.

“It will be fine, kitten.” He took her hand, “Let’s go together, okay?”

Stacia nodded, confident now that she was holding his hand. Together they stepped through to find themselves next to Gerald and the others. Gerald looked over with a raised brow, shaking his head in derision. “Now that we’re all here, let me give you a brief rundown of how this went in the beta. Each hut holds a group of Orcs. The composition is random, it can include warriors with shields, berserkers with big weapons, archers who will try to get out via a window to shoot at us and finally shamans who use healing and damage spells. Each hut will contain four to eight orcs. Also, there are patrols that rove through the village which means that we could have adds to contend with. And if that wasn’t enough, the patrols shout for help and the closest hut will be alerted and join in.”

“Wow. So it’s going to be very add heavy,” Alburet mused. “What was the strategy in beta?”

“Walk through the village and kill the patrols first, which means we’ll also get at least one hut added in, but once all the patrols are dead it becomes fairly easy to go door to door. There is the chance of a few rare spawn mobs in the huts as well. The only consistent boss is the chief in the main hut. We can walk through that once the rest of the village is dead. Any questions?” Gerald asked.

“Why is the sky blue?” Bob asked with a smirk.

“Your imp is a pain, and you want two of him?”

“That is the plan. Bob, don’t antagonize the tank, okay?” Alburet said, using his ability to Copy Bob.

A second, darker Bob appeared shaking its head, “Fine, master.”

“Okay. Gerald, you’re the lead. Tiny, Gerald is the main tank. No taunting unless it’s to save one of us or Gerald says to, okay?”

“Yes, master,” Tiny rumbled.

“I wish I didn’t take a loss to my stats when you summoned my copy,” Bob groused. “I mean, I’m almost back to my starting stats now.”

“Yeah, but if that didn’t happen it would be a little overpowered,” Alburet shrugged, “it is the way it is, so suck it up.”

The group followed Gerald, who started off on a circuit of the wall first as he said two patrols always had the walls as a route. “Patrols are easy, just two orcs and a warg. When we find them, Tiny you tank them and I’ll grab the adds. That will be the most efficient way to handle the patrol groups,” Gerald said as they followed the palisade.

“Yes,” Tiny rumbled, a little unhappy that Gerald was giving him orders. Tiny consoled himself with the fact that the orders made sense and Alburet would have agreed with the orders anyway.

A few minutes later the first patrol came around the corner of the nearest hut. There was a brief moment of surprise for both groups before the action began. Tiny rushed forward, getting the attention of the orcs and warg as one of the orcs shouted a cry for help. Alburet came up behind Tiny to start buffing the Destroyer while Fluff, the Bobs, and Stacia waited for the new adds to show up. A few seconds later a group of six orcs came around the other side of the hut, where Gerald was waiting to pick them up.

Stacia, Fluffball and both Bobs targeted Gerald’s first target and after the second hit from Gerald started their damage on the mob. Alburet stayed with Tiny, knowing he would need to reapply his heal over time since Marysue couldn’t use her healing magic on the demon. After a minute Alburet was able to turn to help the others, leaving Tiny with the last orc from the patrol at half life. As he turned to the rest of the group he saw they had killed three of the Orcs and were working on the last three. It didn’t take long for the Orcs to die, once they were down the group paused to allow their health and mana to regen.

“Huh. That was easier than the groups I did it with in the beta,” Gerald said grudgingly. “Having an off tank really does help out and the second imp is making up for the lack of damage from Stacia. Still don’t understand how we can even have an NPC in the party, though.”

Alburet just shrugged, “Got me, but I wouldn’t trade any of my party for another damage dealer.”

Marysue looted the corpses, noting silently that Stacia was getting an even cut from the mobs. Once the loot was distributed they moved on to find the second patrol. It didn’t take long to find the second patrol group that went around the palisade. It was almost a complete rinse and repeat of the last group, except this time the group that added in had a shaman which meant it had to be focused down first. There were still four adds up by the time Alburet was able to switch over and help out.

“Outside of the one area damage spell the shaman got off before he died, none of you is taking damage beside Gerald and Tiny.” Marysue said with a smile after the fight, “makes my job much easier.”

“And now we just go door to door and see if they want cookies,” Fluff interjected with a straight face.

“Thin mints, Mr. Orc, would you like a box?” Alburet asked with a chuckle.

Gerald rolled his eyes, “Cute and all, but can we just move on with this?”

Marysue giggled, “I thought it was funny, but since he’s getting into one of his moods we should probably move on.”

Gerald grumbled as he advanced to the nearest hut and took up position next to the door, waiting for the others to get ready. Alburet directed Tiny to wait by the window in case a mob tried to get away from them. Once everyone was ready Gerald nodded, signaling Alburet to open the door. Alburet pushed the door open, allowing the others to rush into the room ahead of him. Four mobs got to their feet grabbing weapons as Gerald closed the distance with them. Two Orcs with shields, one with a two handed axe and one with a bow who ran for the window.

Alburet glanced at the window just in time to see Tiny step into the way with his shield up, bouncing the orc back into the hut as it went airborne. Laughing, Alburet closed in on the Orc Archer, slashing with his axe. His attack landed squarely on the orc’s back, getting a critical for attacking the spine since the orc was only wearing leather armor. The archer left the bow on the floor, coming up with his short sword slashing at Alburet, who had stepped back. Tiny roared at the orc through the window, taunting the mob back to him which let Alburet step in again with another strike of his axe to the orc’s back. The second attack clipped the orc in the head for another critical strike, shaving another four hundred plus health off the creature.

That pulled aggro off of Tiny, causing Alburet to step back as he knew Tiny wouldn’t be able to taunt again for another few seconds. Luckily for Alburet, Gerald taunted the orc over to him before it had a chance to attack. Both Bobs turned on the archer and began to pile on the fire damage, killing it in short order. When the archer died Alburet was able to join the others in focus killing the targets that Gerald called out one by one.

Alburet handed flasks of tea to Stacia and Fluff, taking his last one for himself. When Gerald looked at him askance he explained. “Staving off the twelve hour debuff, and these were my last drinks.”

“Why not just dip out for a few seconds instead?” Gerald asked shaking his head. “I mean, that’s just tossing coin away like that.”

“I don’t mind and it stops anything going wrong with the log in,” Alburet replied, hoping he sounded convincing enough.

“Remember when DrFrank got locked out yesterday when we were doing the goblin fort again?” Marysue said, “Alburet has a good point in that regard.”

They moved on shortly after that, going from hut to hut and killing everything with little difficulty. The only issue came on the last hut when they found eight orcs and three of them were shamans. The three shamans were able to hold them off by healing each other while the other five Orcs all jumped on Gerald. Cussing, Gerald used his big stun ability with the half hour cooldown to stun all the orc for five seconds. In that window the group was able to annihilate one of the shamans. Down to only two healers, the group was able to take them out as the healing was finally low enough to let them do it. Eventually the Orcs all lay dead, as the party all sat down panting while they recovered their health and mana.

“I had to use a mana potion just after you killed the first shaman, and even then I was almost out again at the end.” Marysue said as she looked the group over, “I’m glad it ended when it did. Also, thanks Tiny for giving Gerald a few seconds of respite there at the end.”

“You are welcome,” Tiny rumbled, smiling at her in return. His many sharp teeth gleamed in the light of the torches that had come to life when the sun set a few minutes ago.

“Well, we just have the chief left,” Gerald said, “This still went better than the four runs I did during the beta.”

“Glad to be of service,” Alburet chuckled. “I don’t think my class is as weak as people think.”

“You have a lot of utility that most don’t think about,” Gerald agreed. “Even then, it’s low utility, the sap strength thing for instance. It doesn’t work on these Orcs like it did on the goblins, sadly.”

“True, but I come with damage in Bob, an off tank in Tiny and next level I’ll have crowd control in the succubus. With all that I’m almost my own little party.”

“You only lack good healing,” Marysue pointed out. “If you had that then Tiny would be really good.”

“Yeah, all I got is a low end heal over time right now. Who knows? Maybe I get something better later,” Alburet agreed. “So what about the boss, Gerald?”

“Okay, the chieftain has one add of each type minus the berserker, but has two shamans. The chieftain is a level twenty berserker, so he’ll have the hp and abilities to be worried about. During the beta he had an area stun, an area interrupt, a high damage cooldown ability that I’ll need to use my mitigation on and lastly a buff for his allies that mitigates damage that they take.” Gerald shook his head, “The two shamans need to die first and he’ll blow his group mitigation ability on them once one of them hits half life. So we need to focus one, let him pop off his ability then continue to burn that one down. I think Tiny should pick up the other adds and hold them as long as he can. The boss is going to hurt me like fuck and Mary will have to focus almost exclusively on me. Once one of the shamans go down we switch to the other one, then the other adds, then lastly the boss.”

“I can bring up a second Tiny instead of a second Bob, to help keep the adds occupied longer. I think we can burn the shaman down without a second Bob without too much problem,” Alburet suggested.

“That would give us a little more time,” Gerald agreed. “However, we really need to burn that shaman down first. Can you flop from a second imp to destroyer easily?”

“Yeah, just takes a chunk of mana. I’ll toss my heal onto Tiny when we go in. Hopefully that buys us enough time to get the first shaman down quickly.”

“We could wait for another twentyish minutes for Gerald to get his area stun back up,” Marysue suggested.

“I’d use it once the mitigation buff wears off, that will help us kill the first shaman easier. During the mitigation buff maybe get your heal back onto Tiny. But hold off on a second destroyer until the stun has worn off.” Gerald took a deep breath, looking around at the others, “So does everyone agree?”

Everyone agreed that waiting sounded like a good idea, so the group decided to take the twenty minutes and do a thorough search through the huts in case they missed something the first time. Nothing came of the search though, so twenty minutes later they were outside the main hut and ready for the boss fight.

Chieftain

Once everyone was ready and all the buffs had been applied Alburet opened the door and stepped back. Gerald kicked it right after Alburet had stepped back, hard enough to rip the door right off its leather bindings. As the door crashed to the ground Gerald, followed by Tiny, rushed into the room. Gerald rushed at the boss and the two shamans as Tiny attacked the other adds.

A few steps behind the tanks the others entered the room, the Bobs taking either side of the doorway as Fluffball and Stacia rushed towards the shamans. Alburet was a step behind them. Marysue was the last in, standing in the doorway as she began to cast healing spells onto Gerald.

It took Tiny a bit longer than expected to grab the other adds. He had to physically strike many of them as he didn’t have an area taunt. Once he’d gotten their attention though, the Demonic Retribution helped him keep aggro.

All the damage dealers had jumped on the first shaman, laying into it with fury. Gerald had to taunt it after Alburet hit it the first time, doing enough damage to pull aggro. Two seconds later the Chieftain yelled in Orcish and all the orcs seemed to shine with a pale green light.

“Shield buff up,” Gerald shouted. “It lasts twenty seconds. As soon as it goes down I’ll stun. Kill the shamans first.”

Alburet knew Gerald was just making sure everyone remembered the plan, but it wasn’t a complicated plan to begin with. During the twenty seconds of the buff on the adds, Alburet darted across the room and hit Tiny with another Demonic Vitality. The first was about to drop off and his health wasn’t looking great.

Alburet made it back to the shamans just as the buff dropped off and Gerald used his stun. For five seconds the mobs were stunned, minus the boss who was immune. In that five seconds the damage dealers unloaded enough damage to drop the first shaman to 10% life. As the stun came off both shamans began to cast heals onto the damaged one. Before they could finish the first shaman crumpled under the barrage of attacks.

A second later the Chieftain used his own stun ability, which locked all of them up for five seconds. Worse, it followed that up with its big damage ability taking Gerald from 976/1100 to 426/1100. That forced Marysue to try using her instant cooldown heal, but as soon as she thought of using it the Chieftain used his area interrupt, locking casters out of magic for five seconds.

“Tiny!” Alburet yelled as he and the other DPS turned on the second shaman.

Tiny half turned and targeted the Chieftain, taunting the boss to him. Tiny was in really bad shape, though, already under half life. As the boss crossed the room to Tiny, Gerald waited until it was just about to attack Tiny before he taunted it back. The interrupt wore off during that ping pong, letting Marysue heal Gerald with her cooldown which brought him back up to 876/1100.

The shaman was cut down shortly after that as it was not getting double heals. As the second shaman dropped Alburet was about to run across the room when he noted Tiny’s life under a quarter of its normal. He quickly dismissed the second Bob as he crossed to Tiny. He then used his Copy ability to bring a second Tiny into existence. He frowned when he saw that the copy also was at a quarter life.

He renewed Demonic Vitality on the original Tiny to help keep him up as the women started to lay into the archer Orc. The second Tiny taunted the shield carrying orc to help his other self live longer.

By the time the rest of the adds fell Tiny was down to 5% of his life and the copy was at 11%. Letting out a sigh of relief, Alburet dismissed the second Tiny and brought up a second Bob again as the others all turned their attention to the boss.

“You will never crush me and my clan,” the chieftain roared, throwing back his head and letting out a long bellow.

Marysue’s eyes got wide as she looked behind her, afraid more adds were coming. After a couple of seconds she calmed down when nothing happened.

“We killed your pathetic clan first,” Gerald taunted the Orc. “You’re the last.”

The chieftain used his area stun again, in the five seconds the stun held them the chieftain began to glow red. His next attack took Gerald all the way down to 50/1100 as he followed up the stun with his big attack again, doing extra damage thanks to being enraged.

The stun wore off as the chieftain pulled back his axe to finish Gerald off. Tiny taunted the boss, causing it to turn on him as he closed into melee with it. Tiny’s shield met the attack, but enough damage went through to reduce him to a sliver of life.

“For my master,” Tiny rumbled as he slammed his shield into the Orc’s face, his last attack before the orc killed him.

Those few seconds bought enough time for Marysue to get some healing onto Gerald. Gerald reengaged the boss as the DPS kept up their attacks.

Bob was all but in hysterics as he kept throwing Fire Blast after Fire Blast with renewed vigor. “You killed my friend, asshole,” he ranted as he kept casting since he didn’t need to vocalize words for his spells. “I’m going to cut your nuts off and fry them up.”

Alburet raised a brow, surprised at the sheer depth of emotion that came from Bob over Tiny’s death. It seemed that Bob actually liked Tiny more than he had been letting on. As his mind half considered that he landed another blow on the chieftain, wondering how Tiny would react if Bob died.

They were making good headway on killing the boss, finally dropping it to 100/4500 when it stunned them again. As before, during the stun it followed up with its major attack on Gerald, which killed him this time. It turned on Alburet, hitting him for close to 200 due to his lower armor. The blow landed squarely on his leather covered head. As soon as the stun wore off they killed the boss, letting out a ragged cheer as they all sat down exhausted.

“So close to being perfect, too,” Alburet half complained.

“We’re a little under what level you should be to be in here,” Marysue stated. “Without Tiny taking the adds then sacrificing himself we wouldn’t have made it through.”

“It was a little unfair to have the boss using its high damage attack right after it uses its stun, though,” Fluffball mused. “I mean, how is a tank supposed to mitigate that?”

“There is an ability that will use your mitigation ability automatically for you if you are going to take fatal damage,” Gerald said as he came back through the door. “I didn’t take it, but now I might because other bosses are likely to do something similar and honestly it makes sense for the monsters to be smart enough for that.”

“So you’re not upset?” Fluff asked.

“Only that I didn’t take that ability at fifteen,” Gerald shrugged. “I had no idea they had changed the boss up to use those abilities as a combo like that.”

“Well, let’s grab our loot head back to turn in the quests and call it a night,” Alburet said, getting back to his feet.

“Master?” Bob spoke softly, “Tiny isn’t able to come back for a while and if you’re all going to call it a night can I take off too?”

Lips pursed at the soft tone Bob used, Alburet considered his imp’s hunched form. “If that is what you want Bob, but before you go, thank you. You did a great job all day and even more so during this fight.” Bob gave a jerky nod before he vanished along with the copy Bob.

Fluffball, who had been watching, spoke up, “He took that harder than I thought he would.”

“Definitely didn’t expect it either,” Alburet replied, turning back to see what loot Marysue got from the boss.

“Okay,” Marysue said as she stood up holding a set of hard leather boots. “My loot is a pair of boots with bonus wisdom.”

Gerald looted the body next and came up with a bronze skullcap, “Nice, gives five points to constitution.”

Fluffball ended up with a ring that gave her extra strength. Stacia got a ring with a bonus to charisma, which made her smile. Alburet was last and as he looted the chief’s body disappeared. He ended up with a leather chest piece with five constitution and two more armor than the leather chest piece he had been wearing.

“We’re all looted up, so let’s head back to the fort,” Alburet said, with the others agreeing.

It took a little over an hour with them only attacking the patrols that got in their way to reach the fort at a run. Before they headed inside they sold off their junk to the single vendor. With that done, they went inside the fort proper to turn in the quests.

“This should level me,” Fluffball said excitedly. “If it does I can pick up dual wielding like I wanted too.”

The sergeant looked up as they approached. Just before they reached the desk Gerald paused and held Marysue back so Alburet was the first one to the table. Alburet hadn’t noticed as he’d been a step ahead anyway. He came to a stop and saluted the sergeant.

“Sir, we are back from our expedition,” Alburet said once the sergeant returned the salute.

“We have word from our scouts that the whole village was wiped out for the time being. Well done, you lot,” the sergeant said with a nod of his head, “If only the men could do what you've done.”

Quest Completed: Kill thirty Orcs

Receive: Increased Reputation with Stormguard Guard factions plus ten gold.

Quest Completed: Kill ten Wargs

Receive: Increased Reputation with Stormguard Guard factions plus ten gold.

Quest Completed: Kill the Orc Chieftain

Receive: Increased Reputation with Stormguard Guard factions and an item from the Quartermaster.

“Take this scroll to the quartermaster to pick up the gear and gold from him. The thanks of Stormguard goes with you.” The sergeant got to his feet, saluting all of them before retaking his seat.

Alburet chuckled as everyone in the party leveled when the three quests completed. “Nice. Let's grab our rewards and head out.”

The group exited the keep to find the quartermaster standing next to his forge, shutting the place down for the night. “What do you all need with me? The forge is done for the evening,” he said as he saw them approaching.

“We come to collect the rewards we are due per the sergeant, sir,” Alburet said, handing the scroll across.

“Hmm twenty gold and an item each,” the quartermaster sighed. “Fine, let's make this quick though, shall we.” He handed Alburet a book, “Select your item, I'll hand out the gold while you browse.”

Alburet looked though the book and selected a ring with a plus five to intelligence as his old one was about to break. He handed the book to Gerald, who was hovering waiting to get it. Alburet accepted the gold from the quartermaster who had handed coin to the others already.

Once Gerald and Marysue had their rewards they said their goodbyes and vanished, logging out right there. Fluffball yawned as she equipped the new bracers she’d picked up while Stacia looked through the book.

“I'm going for the night, thank you for grouping with me again,” Fluff said, suppressing another yawn. “I might be on again tomorrow. If so and you’re up for it I'll send you a message.”

“Sounds good, Fluff. You have a good night,” Alburet replied as Fluff used her Homestone.

Stacia coughed gently as she handed the book back to the quartermaster, “I'm ready, master.”

Alburet grinned at Stacia, “Let’s go home then, shall we? I need to speak with Stewart before we bathe and have dinner. So when we get back, you get things rolling for dinner and bathing while I speak with him. Once that’s done we can have a little fun tonight.”

Stacia shivered slightly, “Will you spank me as hard as you did last time?”

Pulling out his Homestone, Alburet smiled, “I can do that for you, kitten.”

Stacia used her Homestone a moment before Alburet did. When he arrived he caught sight of Stacia already entering the inn. “Eager for tonight, I see,” Alburet chuckled to himself as he walked to the inn.

The inside was packed full of people as it normally was at this time of night. Pausing inside the doorway, he looked for Stewart among the masses, finally spotting him in the corner at a table with Grimgar. Alburet made his way over to the table after a minute or two of dodging through the crowd. “Evening, Stewart. Can I bend your ear about business for a few minutes? Hi to you as well, Grimgar. I promise it shouldn’t take long.”

Stewart eyed him for a moment before nodding, “Ah, must be about your next summons. We need to go down to do that though, so we can’t break any laws and cause problems for Alistern.”

Grimgar shrugged, “As long as he comes back for the next round. How did ye huntin’ go?”

“We cleared out the Orc Village. It was a little scary for a few minutes but all in all it worked out.”

“How did Stacia do?” Grimgar asked intently.

“She did her part fine. Nothing even came close to touching her, either.”

“Good, good tha’ be what I be wantin’ to hear. Don’t keep him long. This ale won’ last forever,” Grimgar chuckled as he snagged Stewart’s mug from across the table.

Stewart shook his head, “Can’t leave ale out near him, he is a two fisted drinker. Alright, let’s get going otherwise he will order more rounds on my tab.” Stewart started moving through the crowd, headed to the tunnel. When they finally reached the work space, they were completely alone. Stewart didn't seem to find that odd as he sat at his desk, “Okay, what did you need?”

“I wanted more information about the Lesser Succubus before I call the IRS for her. You said that Succubi tend to push their masters for attention.”

“Yes, they do,” Stewart said, nodding. “It’s not as bad as you probably fear, though. Think of it like the Imp wanting to damage things or the Destroyer wanting to take attacks in your stead. Succubi just want affection and maybe a rough time at your hands, is all. Give it to her occasionally and there shouldn’t be any issues. Unless you are one of those rare few who wants an incubus?”

Alburet shook his head, “No, I like the females. Thanks for that, though. Okay, so it’s not like she’s going to be all over me when we’re hunting, then?”

“Not at all,” Stewart said. “The worst I recall was a certain Succubus screaming out her master’s name for three nights running while we were out hunting. While actively fighting though, I’ve never seen a Succubus cause issues. Then again, if she becomes unhappy who knows what she might do? I’ve never had an unhappy Succubus.” He gave Alburet a shit eating grin, “Maybe you will have that problem, though.”

Snorting, Alburet shook his head, “I doubt it. Is it safe to summon down here?”

“Yes, that’s why I suggested we come down.”

“Okay, let me Summon Bettzle then and chose my Succubus…” Alburet said just as a hand touched his shoulder. He spun quickly, his hand pulled back to strike at his attacker. He stopped himself from following through just in time, seeing it was Lilith. “God damn it, that would have been bad. Lilith, don’t sneak up on me like that please.”

Blinking, Lilith shook her head, “I see now what Stacia was talking about, very quick reflexes. I was just coming down to see if anyone here needed anything.”

“I’m good. Just about to summon the IRS for my Lesser Succubus.”

“Oh. Mind if I stay and watch?” Lilith smiled brightly.

Alburet felt his mind blank for a second before he shook his head, “That’s fine with me.”

“Lilith?” Stewart asked in question, but she just shook her head at him, her smile still firmly in place.

Alburet ignored the byplay as he went through the spell to summon Bettzle. A moment later a red summoning ring appeared and Bettzle appeared fixing his glasses. “Ah. Time for your last minion to be selected, Summoner?”

“That is the plan, yes.”

“Very well, your last minion is the Lesser Succubus. Choose we…” Bettzle paused, looking at the book he had been opening. “Hmm, this is odd. You seem to already have a Succubus, which is doubly odd as you didn’t summon me for her contract. Did you bind a free Succubus to your side?”

“Not that I know of,” Alburet said. “Maybe it’s a glitch or a bug. Any suggestions?”

Bettzle frowned at his book, “Try summoning her?”

Alburet checked the second part of the spell that summoned his minion to him. “Okay, here we go. I summon my minion the Lesser Succubus.” As he spoke the words he made the motion of cracking a whip as the spell described. He thought the default spell a bit much, figuring he could change it later.

A bright flash faded to a cloud of smoke at his side. He was aware of a figure in the smoke, becoming visible as the cloud lifted. His gaze followed the disappearing smoke up the body next to him. Cloven hooves led up black leather calves that grew lighter in color until they became creamy white skin just before the knee. The white creamy skin continued past the knee up to toned thighs. Wrapped around one of them was a black leather spade-tipped tail that quivered as it stroked the thigh it was wrapped around. The Succubus next to him wore a pair of leather short shorts that hugged her hips like a second skin. As the smoke continued to rise up her form, so did Alburet’s eyes. He found a flat, toned stomach of white alabaster that gave way to a very full chest which moved with every breath and twitch of her body. His eyes locked briefly on the chest that was covered by a leather bra that helped enhance the assets more than anything. Two firmly toned arms were crossed beneath her chest helping give them a little squeeze and lift, not that they needed more help. Two wings were stretched out behind her, bat like wings of a black leathery nature that easily stretched twenty feet in wingspan. The next thing Alburet noticed was the bright red hair, the dark red of blood mixed with the vibrancy of flame that hung in waves down her back with a single lock draped down next to her bust. Tearing his eyes off her bosom, he pulled his eyes up to see the smiling face of his Succubus staring back at him with excitement and contentment.

“Greetings, master,” Stacia said, licking her lips nervously as if afraid he might reject her now.

Alburet

Human Summoner

Level 16

Strength: 21

Agility: 21

Constitution: 30

Intelligence: 52

Wisdom: 51

Charisma: 35

Health: 1100

Mana: 1310

Spells:

Demon Skin-Rank 2

Demonic Retribution- Rank 2

Summon Least Imp

Fire Blast- Rank 2

Sap Strength

Demonic Haze

Summon Lesser Destroyer

Demonic Vitality

Fire Burst

Summon Lesser Succubus

Abilities:

Personal Spells

Flame Weapon

Copy

Author’s Note

I want to give thanks to my editor first, without whom this book would have taken way longer to even be close to being in your hands. She shall remain nameless though, to stop others trying to get her edit their books.

Next up thanks to my best friend who shall also remain nameless, lest someone try to steal him as well, for doing the first round of beta reading. Also beta readers Scott Brown, Jay Taylor and Zee for beta reading it once it was done with the edit. You guys really helped me out by spotting some issues that were missed.

This is the third book I've written, but the first of this series. This time I wanted to dial up the game mechanics compared to my first series, Last Horizon. However, I went old school compared to most of the current litrpg, with set classes and set level up skills.

I guess I should note that all people and places are fictional and any resemblance to real people is not intended. So if for any reason you think any of these characters are based you, wow you got a big ego.

I want to give a shout out to the LITRPG Facebook pages. It is a place for fans of the genre as well as authors to mix and mingle. We celebrate the growing genre and encourage each other. Please stop by and say hello to us.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/LitRPGGroup/

https://www.facebook.com/groups/LitRPGsociety/

You can catch up with all the latest news from me via a number of sources, listed below.

https://twitter.com/DJSchinhofen

https://www.patreon.com/DJSchinhofen

http://schinhofenbooks.blogspot.com/

https://litrpgforum.com/

I hope you enjoyed the first book of the series. I plan on many more to follow the continued story of Alburet in Alpha World. See you all in book 2 of Alpha World, Forming the Company.

The cover is a revised cover courtesy of Podium, who is publishing the audio book on Audbile.

The author,

DJ Schinhofen