Meeting People

Looking into the stream I see someone I don't recognize. There's a slender girl with dazzling long white hair and bright forest green eyes. If I had to guess, I'd say she's about 18. She looks at me with an expression of confusion reflected on her porcelain white face. The delicate doll-like girl seems to be copying me. Within a short few seconds, I understand the situation. I am her. All the craziness that I have experienced helps the situation sink in. Wow. Well at least I am pretty. Though looking at my new body a few concerns arise. Will this delicate body be able to survive here. I'll probably become more of a target like this.

"Rustle". Urgently, my head swivels around at the sign of potential danger. Around 2 meters away are two children around 12 years old. They look to be twins with their fiery red hair, brown eyes, and numerous freckles. Although the two look similar, their personalities differ. While the boy holds an air of confidence, the girl looks more reserved and shy. For a few seconds we cautiously examine each other before they break the tension. The boy prodded, "Hello, who are you. My name is Rex and this is my sister Renna. Who are you? Are you lost?" Quickly I reply, "Ah. Yes I'm lost. um. My name is Alea. Would you mind helping me out? I'm looking for somewhere to stay. I just wanna find somewhere a place to settle down and do some honest work." The two look at each other for a moment before Rex replied, "I think I can help you with that. We could always use an extra help in hand around the village. You need to meet the village chief first though. Don't worry though. He's not scary or anything. I'd like to ask you something though. How can you wondering about like this. Although this area tends to be on the safer side, monsters have been on the rise lately. If you're lost you could've wondered into monster territory."

After hearing Rex's concern, I take a closer look at the two and notice details I'd missed before. They are both equipped with daggers and tough boots. Besides that, I now notice a scary aura they seem to imitate which is bizarre considering their age. I thank them, "Oh. Then I am fortunate to have met you two. I've grown up a bit sheltered, so I appreciate all the advice you can provide me with." Appearing satisfied with my response Rex declares, "Well then, what type of work are you good at"? Enthusiastically, I answer, "Well, I can do cleaning, cooking, mathematics, writing, and I'm willing to learn." Rex contemplates for a moment and remarks, "Well, the village chief will know what to do with you. Now let's go". Oh ok, then, " I mutter. Renna who hasn't spoken up yet quickly hands me something before we set off. "Oh, what is this," I inquire. "Food. You must be hungry after wondering like you have." "Thank you." I respond with a smile. Renna smiles back and we set off to catch up with Rex who has already walked off a bit.

On the way to the village, which is apparently named Oakleaf Village, I got to know the two of them better and was able to find out some valuable information. First of the name of the country I am in is Atresh. The name sounds strangely familiar. Anyways, Atresh is quite the prosperous country. Though recently, it has been suffering due to the awakening of the Demon King. I can't believe that there's actually a demon king. I'm glad small fry like me will never meet him. Besides the demon king, I also learned more about magic. Apparently, magic isn't as widespread as I'd hoped. It's revered, but nobles are about the only ones who can use powerful magic. Simple magic is widespread though.

That makes me think about the potential of my system. When I finally learn how to earn those Reader Points, I can return to living the good life. Becoming a royal magician or maybe an alchemist won't be dream. I could live a life of comfort.

It doesn't take long to arrive at the village. When we do, our group receives curious stares. The twins wave in response which ends people's stares. In front of me is what I assume to be the chief's house. Unlike the other houses which I would consider huts this house would fit more accurately fit the description of a cottage with it's moderate size, stone walls, and small but numerous windows. One aspect I particularly like about the cottage is the greenery surrounding it. Next to the house is a small but prosperous garden containing standard summer crops such as tomatoes and cucumbers. I think I may even see some watermelons. Besides the garden, the cottage is surrounded by bright wild looking flowers. My favorite ones are the ones below the window that are a bluish purple.

Entering the cottage alongside the twins, I feel welcomed by the cozy atmosphere inside. Sitting in the center of the main room is an old man. The man looks to be about 45 with a few gray hairs scattered throughout his remaining brown hair. He sports a light beard and wears clothes that don't look particularly better than what the twins are wearing. I guess the chief is still on the same level as the rest of the villagers. Staring at me with his but kind inquisitive dark blue eyes, he takes a moment to direct a questioning look towards the twins. In response the twins start explaining the situation. The Chief whose name is Wayne asks me, "Would you be find with assisting Rex and Renna's family. It would entail cleaning, cooking, looking after the children, and just generally helping around while acclimating to the village?" Excited I immediately respond, "Of course. That sounds wonderful." Kindly the chief reassured me, "Feel free to express if you have any difficulties. We want you to feel comfortable here. We're all like one big family here. Besides, the village is always excited to see a new face".

After wrapping things up, we headed towards the twin's house. Their parents were out working for the day and their siblings were being watched after by the neighbors, so I wouldn't be able to see them till tonight. I am kinda glad that I don't have to see them immediately, since I am nervous. The twins left me at the house saying they had to complete their task of gathering herbs for the day. They said they'd be back before the other arrived though, so that could introduce me. That makes me feel better. Left alone at the house, I decide to go outside a bit. Without much to do, I take a look at that book the novice package gave me. Looking around I see a shaded spot on a patch of moss under a tree.

Peacefully, I enjoy the chirping of the birds and the fresh scent of the outdoors while reading my book. The book isn't difficult, but the topic is a bit boring. Nonetheless, I find myself absorbed in the book for the next hour or so. Immediately after finishing the book, an alert goes off. Ding. I look at the notification and start to feel a mixture of surprise and elation. [For finishing novice level book user gains 100 Reader Points.] Amazing! Just amazing! So that's how I get reader points! With this my comfortable life isn't just a dream. Wait, there are still two other notifications. [User gains the skill mapping] [User gains 10 exp] This system is quite something. I guess I don't have to go around killing monsters though. Oh, lets test out mapping.