Adventure Begins: The Old Heretic Elf

The next day, Aria arrived at the Adventurers Guild with determination in his eyes. He scanned the mission board, searching for his next challenge. His gaze settled upon a Monster Subjugation quest, requiring him to eliminate 20 slimes and collect their carcasses as proof of his success. Eager to prove his skills, he swiftly claimed the task and approached the receptionist for any additional details.

Aria: Good morning! I would like to take on the Monster Subjugation quest, targeting 20 slimes. Can you provide me with any specific information about their location or behavior?

Receptionist: Good morning, Aria! Certainly, the slimes you're looking for are often found deep within the Enchanted Forest. They tend to gather near areas with damp soil or stagnant water. Be cautious though, as some slimes can be more aggressive than others. Remember to collect the carcasses of all 20 slimes as proof of completion.

Understood! I'll head straight to the Enchanted Forest and take care of those slimes.

With his mission in hand, Aria ventured once again into the Enchanted Forest. His fire magic and determination served him well as he battled the slimes, one by one, swiftly eliminating them. After some time, Aria emerged victorious, having obtained all 20 slime carcasses as required.

As Aria prepared to exit the forest, his attention was drawn to a commotion nearby. A group of teenagers was harassing an old heretic elf, mocking and taunting him. Without hesitation, Aria rushed to the elf's aid, dispersing the bullies and ensuring their retreat.

Aria: Are you alright, sir? Those bullies can be quite cruel. Let me help you.

Old Heretic Elf (Thales): Thank you, young one. Your courage and compassion are truly remarkable. Please, help me to my feet.

Aria assisted the old heretic elf, Thales, to his feet. Despite the elf's appearance, Aria sensed a deep wisdom and purpose within him. Recognizing the need for assistance, Aria offered to carry Thales on his back, guiding him towards the hermit's hut.

Aria: Please allow me to take you to safety, sir. I noticed the hut near the entrance of the Enchanted Forest. We can rest there, and I'll make sure you're well cared for.

Thales: You have my gratitude, young adventurer. My name is Thales, and I am not truly crazy, as many would believe. I seek to enlighten others about the forgotten gods and the lost race that once thrived in these lands.

Aria listened intently as Thales introduced himself and shared his purpose. The young adventurer felt a growing sense of respect for the old heretic elf, realizing that there was more to him than meets the eye. Little did Aria know that his fateful encounter with Thales would ignite a journey of discovery and open his mind to a world of forgotten truths and ancient knowledge.

Aria made his way back to the Adventurers Guild, carrying the 20 slime carcasses as proof of his successful mission. He entered the guild with a sense of accomplishment, determined to submit his task before attending to Thales' needs.

Aria approached the receptionist, placing the slime carcasses on the counter.

Receptionist: Ah, Aria, back so soon? You've completed the Monster Subjugation mission? Well done! Let me take those carcasses and register your success.

Aria: Thank you. I'll need to head out again shortly, but before I go, I'd like to ask if there's a place nearby where I can purchase healing potions. I want to be prepared for future encounters.

Receptionist: Of course! There's a reputable alchemist's shop just a few streets down from here. They stock a variety of potions and healing items. I suggest you pay them a visit. Remember, it's always wise to be well-prepared before facing any monsters.

As Aria turned to leave, he inadvertently bumped into Claude, the seasoned adventurer who had examined him during his physical test. The two exchanged greetings and exchanged well wishes for the day.

Aria: Good day, Claude! It's nice to see you again.

Claude: Ah, Aria! Likewise, my friend. I hope your journey is treating you well so far. Just a friendly reminder, always be cautious and watchful when dealing with monsters. They can be unpredictable, even the seemingly harmless ones. Also, don't forget to stock up on healing potions. They can be a lifesaver in dire situations.

Aria: Thank you for the advice, Claude. I'll keep that in mind. By the way, where can I find the alchemist's shop nearby?

Claude: Head straight down this road and take the first left. You can't miss it. They have a wide selection of potions to suit your needs. Take care and may luck be on your side, Aria.

Aria followed Claude's directions and soon arrived at the alchemist's shop. He purchased a supply of healing potions, ensuring he had enough to aid him in future battles. Satisfied with his purchase, Aria swiftly returned to Thales' hut, his promise to the old heretic elf weighing on his mind. Aria handed the healing potions to Thales, who gratefully accepted them. With Thales' wounds now on the mend, the time had come for the old elf to share his tale of The Forgotten God and the Lost Race.

Thales: Thank you, Aria, for your kindness. These potions will aid my recovery. Now, let me share with you the story of The Forgotten God and the Lost Race. Long ago, there existed a divine entity, revered by many but forgotten by time...

As Thales began to recount the ancient tale, Aria listened attentively, his curiosity growing with each passing word. The story would unveil hidden truths, reshape his understanding of the world, and set him on a path filled with mystery, danger, and the opportunity to uncover the forgotten past.

As Thales delved into the depths of the forgotten past, he unraveled the tale of creation, weaving a narrative that had long been lost to time. The story began with the existence of a divine being known as Izanagi, the god of creation.

In ancient times, Izanagi stood as a central figure, revered for bringing life into existence. However, as centuries passed, the memories of Izanagi faded, overshadowed by the worship of the ten gods known in the present day.

Among these ten gods, Sol, Luna, Licht, Nacht, Chronos, Astreaus, Fuego, Aqua, Terra, and Aire, their domains encompassed the realms of the sun, moon, light, darkness, time, space, fire, water, earth, and wind. Humans believed that these gods joined hands to shape their existence, attributing the varied powers they possessed to this collective creation.

Yet, the truth remained concealed, and the essence of Izanagi's role in their very being had slipped into obscurity. The forgotten god's significance and the depth of his contributions had faded from the collective consciousness of the races.

Furthermore, as time passed, the existence of the Dragonians, a once powerful race, had been erased from history. The two distinct tribes within this enigmatic race, the Solarian and Lunarian factions, had also been relegated to the realms of myth and legend.

The intricate tapestry of forgotten gods, lost races, and a creation story obscured by time had left the world bereft of its full understanding. As Thales conveyed these revelations to Aria, the weight of the forgotten past bore heavily upon them, instilling a sense of urgency and purpose in their quest for truth and rediscovery.