7 Moving Forward

Dawn has finally arrived as the sun from the horizon started to peek. The sun's soft light settled on the city and one can see as it starts to wake up from its slumber. Despite the cold weather the warmth of the sun made a very comfortable combination.

I took a deep breath as I took in the fresh air greedily. After taking few more deep breaths I looked at the city once more.

I was now standing at the roof top area of the Shirin. From my location I can almost see the whole city though I can not see what is beyond the city walls. Despite this I indulge the scene as I look at it in a different way than before.

Before I appreciated all the sights that I saw in the perspective of some who entered a game however the 'me' who was a gamer died few minuets before. At that very moment I became a person who is living in this world.

As a person who has been reborn in this world I started to see this world not on a level of seeing how realistic it is or how similar everything is to the real world.

Many players might laugh out if ever they found out how I think of this world. Despite that, the experience I have gone through within a day was enough for me to form my on view of coming to this world.

My life in Earth and here in Althiem might differ but the fact that I exist here means I am also 'alive' in this world. So while I am here I will live here and see it in a way of someone from this world.

"I've been looking for you…"

A voice drifted the air making me look behind. Seeing the figure standing beside the door of the roof top I gave a small smile.

"And you found me..."

The man did not answer but instead he tipped his head to the side and looked at me in an assessing gaze.

"What?" I said as I started to become uncomfortable about the silence.

"I thought you will be more…"

"More what?"

Shaking his head he looked at me.

"Nothing… I thought I'll have to talk to you but looking at you now I feel like there is no need for that." Roy said as he walked towards me and stopped just besides me.

"So are you ready?"

"Hmnn… yes…" I answered as I shifted my gaze towards the rising sun. A new day in this world has arrived…

* ~ * ~ *

"So where are we going now?" I asked as we continued to walk because I noticed that the path we were taking was different. I suspect that we are not going back to the room of Darts so I became puzzled and asked.

"Actually we will be going to a meeting which will be held in the city castle."

"City castle… eh? If I get it right it will be a meeting regarding what happened during the training exercise…"

"Yes, that's correct."

"So why should I go? I mean it will be handled by the military and the government right?"

"Yes, that's true… however the survivors are requested to attend the meeting as an eye witness and for the higher ups to clear some questions that they want to hear from those who were there during the attack."

"I see… since you said survivors…"

"That will be you and the other drifter."

"Amber…"

From the Shirin we walked towards the city castle. While on the way, I get to learn that we will be meeting the Vithar.

"Vithar? What is that?"

"Vithar is a title given by the king to a chosen aristocrat to rule over a certain territory. Basically Vithar are aristocrats who rules over city – states."

"Hmmn… so they are ruling aristocrats… how high is this tile in the kingdom?"

"Well, Vithar will be the third to the highest."

"Third… are there other titles?"

"Ok, let me give you a rough idea of the kingdom first… The smallest unit in the kingdom would be the village followed by cities and then it will be a region. There are 3 levels of cities. A level 1 city has at least 3000 household, a level 2 has around twice or thrice the number of a level 1 city and a level three has around 12,500 households."

"Wow! That's a lot."

"That's true… however a region is a totally different level. A capital city of a region will have power over around 30 to 50 thousand households. In The Kingdom of Frozith there are a total of four regions of which three is controlled by three known families chosen by the king and the last is the region govern directly be the royal family."

"I see…"

"The king will appoint people who will govern the country. So the head of the three families are given the title of Ryliz. This title is the highest title given to a person who is given power to govern."

"So there are only three that has this title."

"Yes, and the next title is Thyrl, This is given to the one that governs a level 3 city by the king but usually these people are recommended by the Ryliz since they are directly under the jurisdiction of their power."

"Oh… is it because there are countless level 3 cities under a region?"

"Yes. There are many villages and cities with different levels under a region so that's why Ryliz usually recommend so that they can put people they trust on the position to look after the territories."

I hummed as I nodded my head as Roy explained. The structure was similar to the medieval system in England though there are differences as well.

"Only the city governors have title bestowed by the king. So in conclusion, A level 3 city governor is given the title of Thyrl, a level 2 governor is given Vithar and a level one is given a title of Xirth."

"So this city is a Level 2 city then."

"Yes it is… that is why it has its own military strength as well."

"Then I have to be careful when I meet the Vithar…"

"That should be expected." Roy said as he looked at me as if to say that I have to behave myself.

I gave him a shrug and focused my gaze at the road.

As we arrived I looked at the castle. It was just like the medieval castles that I watched in moves. Though it is made of stone the stone seemed to be of different type because it was white in color.

We entered the castle and I continued to follow the other man. As we walked in the stone-lined hallways I can't help but touch the stones in curiosity. The texture of the stones was smooth and its temperature is quite cool to my hands.

"What are these stones?" I asked as I can't help stop my curiosity.

"That stones are called Darth they are stones that contains strong mana properties. These stones are usually used to in building castles since the power within can be used to cast protection on the building."

"Hmmm…" I hummed in response as I continued to sightsee the castle.

There were many people and at the main hall you can see them enter the place. It seems like the castle was like the main office of the city. Official businesses made within the city are conducted at the city castle.

We continued to walk deeper in the castle and entered a restricted area where people can't enter without approval of the Vithar. We were able to enter since they were expecting our arrival.

Moments later we stopped in front of a heavy wooden double door that seems to lead to the heart of the castle. The guards opened the door for us and as we entered I found myself at an open hall.

"Welcome Roy~tyr and If I am not mistaken you are Zeift~tyr."

"Nice to meet you." I said as I nodded my head to the person who seemed to be the one to guide us from here on.

"It is a pleasure to meet you as well, my name is Silvia. I am the one who will guide you towards the meeting hall."

"Lead the way." Roy said with a slight nod.

As she lead the way I started to observed the place once again. I noticed that the decorations were more expensive looking and well kept than the ones at the first area we passed through.

It took a couple of confusing twist and turns before we arrived at our destination. If I were here alone I fear that I will be trapped here since every hall seemed to be the same. It was a perfect labyrinth if I say so.

She opened the door and with a nod of thanks we entered.

Upon entering, the eyes of people who were already gathered fell on us. It suddenly made me tense and cautious. These people that were gathered were not normal people; they had power in the government. It will be prudent to be more careful in how I act. I thought as we moved on the room.

The room was big just like an executive meeting room that I usually see when I watch TV. There was a big long table at the center and each side where chairs enough for 10 people to seat. At the far end of the table was a sit on top of a platform leveled enough for everyone on the table to see. I have no doubt that this chair is reserved for the Vithar.

Then I noticed Amber who was already seated at the far end of the meeting room. It seems that the empty chair besides her is the chair reserved for me. It was at the opposite end of where the Vithar will be sitting. It might be how it shows our current position within the City. It can't be helped since we were considered drifters or in this world we are called Dythr.

Roy patted my back as we separated. He went on his assigned seat and I went to sit besides Amber.

"Hey…" I said to her as I sat down.

She only gave me a nod and she averted her eyes.

Hmnn… her attitude seems different from before. If I truly understood her character during the time we were training I would say she should be pretty bored right now and not as tense as I was. I wonder what happened.

I decided to let it go and roam my eyes on the people present inside the room.

There were a total of 14 people including me and Amber. At the right side of the long table were 6 people who seemed to all belong to the military side. Roy and Reijir were the only people I recognize among those who were sitting. Tager, Rohyr and Alex were there as well however they were standing at the wall behind Roy and Reijir.

On our side, the left side of the table, there were 3 people who seemed to be more administrative side than the military.

Everyone was silent and the atmosphere was heavy. Though I wanted to speak to Amber to break the heavy silence I decided to shut my mouth. Maybe the reason Amber have been quite since I arrived was because she didn't want to be the one to break this silence.

The seconds seems to tick by like minuets as time passed by. To my grate relief Vithar seemed to have arrived since everyone stood up as a sound of a door opening echoed at the silent room.

"Sorry to keep you waiting everyone." A very cool tone drifted in the room.

Later at a figure stood up besides the chair on the platform. I assessed the person as he stood there. He seemed to be a man around late thirties. He seemed to be a noble however you can see that he must have served the military during his younger years because you can feel the a certain presence around him.

I also noticed that behind him were Lance and Thriz with another two men. They seemed to be his personal body guard. When Lance and Thriz said that they were personal guards of Vithar It really didn't mean anything to me since I really have no idea of what is Vithar. However now it is a different matter. To know someone who has close proximity with the Vithar can be helpful in the future.

"Thank you for coming." He said as he scanned everyone inside the room including us. "Have a sit everyone." He continued as he motioned us to sit. It was only then that everyone took their sit.

"We are currently in a very dire situation. Because of this I decided to call everyone and decide the next action to take." He began and waved his hand to the man sitting at the right side of the table. "Var Crofton will brief you on what has happened."

The man sitting nearest to Vithar stood up and with a slight bow he moved up the platform and stood beside the chair where the Vithar was sitting. "Last night a group of trainees were slaughtered while in training near the Sleeping Forest."

"It seems like the rumor circulating the city seems to be true…" The man sitting across the chair Var Crofton was sitting on a while ago said. "There have been rumors of a group of monsters killing a lot of people early this morning however there have not been any proof of the claims."

"That is correct, Var Eberhard, we have been concealing this matter to avoid panic within the city."

"Why should people panic? Those monsters are indeed strong for the trainees since they have lower level but for our army it will have no problem in exterminating them." Eberhard answered back.

"That is because the enemies are not normal." Crofton said. "It was reported by Reijir the head security and the officer that was in charge of the training during the incident." As Crofton said this Reijir stood from his sit and mad a bow to Vithar and faced Eberhard.

"For everyone's sake I'll be reporting what have happened during the incident and what we found out after going to the area to save the group that was attacked."

It took around 30 minutes for Reijir to give his full report regarding the incident. However I was shocked to learn of Amber's participation to what have happened. According to Reijir, Amber was the one who reported the incident to the guard she found outside the Cathedral.

It was because of her that people within the city were alerted to what was happening and made a move to sound the alarm to alert the other guards and also let Reijir know of the situation.

I couldn't help looking at her after hearing this from Reijir. However she didn't show any emotions as I looked at her. She remained silent.

"I see…" The man sitting besides Eberhard, a red haired man with eye glasses said. He and every one of them looked at Amber as Reijir finished his report.

"You are one of the survivors that I heard about, aren't you?" the Vithar said as he looked at Amber assessing.

"That is correct Enid Vithar…" Amber said as she stood and made a bow at the Vithar.

"Indeed… I heard that a Dythr who have been selected to be warriors are immortals but I have never encountered a Shir Dythr…" He said as he continued to look at her.

"I am sorry… however that term is unfamiliar with me." Amber said as confusion showed in her face.

"Haha, I am sorry this term might be new to you. Shir Dythr is the name we gave to Dythrs who does not die, the warriors that is gifted with immortality."

"Immortality…"

"Yes… the Dythrs who first came here in Althiem two years ago were not immortals but they have told us stories about them. Most of the people who heard the stories do not believe it but recently the numbers of Shir Dythr have increased to a certain number that the Kingdoms and Empires took notice of it."

As the Vithar explained I took in the information he provided. Of course immortal beings will be in demand in regards to certain quests that ordinary people will normally die doing.

"By reporting what befell on your companions promptly, you have done a great help to us, if it wasn't for you the other two will have not been helped."He said and then his eyes looked at me.

"If I get it correctly you would be Zeift…"

I stood from my seat and bowed to him. "Yes Enid Vithar… I am indeed Zeift."

"And what is your part on what happened?" the red haired man said once again.

"You are the other survivor aren't you?" The man sitting between Roy and Reijir said. "I am Zack the Inner city security head. Alex and Darts, the two of them are my subordinate. I heard a lot about you from them."

I can't help look at Alex who was standing behind the man. I just really hope that whatever Alex told his superior is not as bad as I imagine it. "You are correct Enid Zack."

"Survivor?"

"That's correct Var William." Zack said to the red haired man. "He is one of the three survivors during the incident, Together with one of my subordinate. Unfortunately my subordinate is still in a questionable position."

"You are very lucky to survive the ordeal." William said with an assessing look.

"Yes, I was." I answered, not bothering to add anything to avoid additional questions.

After that they have asked me and Amber to give a detailed recount of what have happened during the attack. On my case I gave them my side of what happened but I did not tell them about Nivare. As Roy had said when we where on the way to the city castle that the Vithar gave an order for this matter to be confidential.

Questions and answers were given during this time until the discussions continued with the proposal forwarded by the military.

As the discussion continued my thoughts started to drift out of focus about the topic they have been talking about. It seemed that my thoughts wandered for quite a while before I felt a sharp jab on my side.

I turned to my side to meet Amber's glare that I answered with a small grin.

"Ahem…" The man sitting besides the man called Crofton coughed to get our attention back.

"Going back… As General Crofton ordered I have assigned the best man on my unit to scout the area where the enemies came from. And from what we have found out the numbers of the enemies deep within the Sleeping Forest is higher that we have anticipated."

"By estimate, how many do you think are there Major Djal?" Eberhard asked.

"Enough to overrun the city…" The man Eberhard called as Major Djal answered after a long pause.

"What!" Taken aback, William said. "Are you saying that the military power of the city is not enough to stop the monsters?"

"I am afraid the number of the monster is already high as we speak, enough to be on par with our army. However the concern we have is the possibility that the enemy have started to gather. We believe that what we might have seen during the scout is only the tip of the iceberg." The man, sitting between Major Djal and Reijir, who have been silent during the conversation said.

"Var Hans… are you truly sure about this?" William asked as he clenched his fist.

"Yes… unfortunately."

"As the head tactician… what to do you propose to do?"

"As I have proposed to General, I believe it will be prudent to ask for military assistance. I believe the enemy just started to gather. With estimation, I believe they will proceed for a full attack in two months."

"Two months …" Eberhard whispered.

"I see where I come in then…" The man sitting nearest to Amber said.

"Yes Var Asherton, the reason you were called here is exactly that…" Vithar said. "As the Head of City Relation, your task will be to negotiate with the other cities especially the City of Lelizen and the City of Carlston since they are the nearest level 3 city in our location."

"However, will the help that they can provide enough? I hear that both are also having problems regarding the monsters that started to appear near the Talmut Mountains and also City of Lelizen is under the Kingdom of Weinberg."

"In regards to these, both cities will provide help immediately since they will understand the gravity of this situation to their city. Our city is like the fore-guard against the monsters coming from Sleeping Forest… if we fall they will be surrounded by the enemies from the Sleeping Forest and the Talmut Mountains. On the other hand it might be hard for them to give us a large amount of men to help but it will give us enough to overcome the first wave."

"First wave?" William said with confusion.

"Indeed. As I said they might attack in two months … but I can see that it will only be the first wave. In order for us to defeat them we will need a time to prepare." General Crofton answered Williams query. "We have already discussed the steps to take regarding this."

"So, what are the plans then?"

"We have to gather enough help from the cities near us which will be handled by Var Asherton. They might not be able to give us enough in number but it will boost our defense enough to stand against the occasional attacks." General started to explain. Seeing that no one asked any questions as he paused he continued.

"This is only a temporary plan while we send a team that will be sent to the Empire of Zahrin that will get assistance."

"Now I understand…" Asherton murmured as he nodded his head. "We will be asking for a large army from the City of Wyndborn. Since it is the nearest regional capital city which can provide assistance in a short notice and sent it in a here in the shortest time. "

"Yes… that's correct." Crofton said as he agreed to the conclusion that Asherton drew up from the talk.

"As the capital city of a region we can say that they can provide enough army to assist for a full raid in the Sleeping Forest."

"Then the time limit for the arrival of the army which will be sent here will be two months." William said as he had a thoughtful expression.

"Two months or if we stretch it we can last for three months." Hans said. "The fastest we can travel from here to the City of Wyndborn is a month max and the army that will be sent will take around a month or two month to arrive."

"That's why we need to buy some time for at least three months until the army arrives." Crofton added.

"Is there any way to lessen the time of travel from here to the City of Wyndborn?" Eberhard asked.

Everyone was silent for a while before Major Djal spoke.

"Usually the route of travel from here to the City of Wyndborn is for us to go to Port City of Luck and from there we travel the Calm Sea towards the Port City of Trance and travel on land towards the capital city... However – " He said but paused for a few seconds then he moved his hands towards a certain point in the map on top of the table.

"The Black Mountain Pass…" Eberhard whispered.

"The mountain is very dangerous that it is marked as a Red Zone. Not everyone can easily enter and return. Only few selected people can pass through the mountain. Out of ten only one survives, that's how dangerous it is." William said with a sigh. "If we use this route we can arrive at the capital city in less than a month which can truly be helpful so the army can prepare for their journey here. However the chance that the one we tasked to go might die is high which will only be against us."

Silence fell on everyone as William finished speaking.

I understand that what he said was on mark. The max on how long they can drag the survival of the city by rounding the assistance from neighboring cities was only three months. The journey towards the capital city is around a month and the journey back of the army is estimated to be two months which is three months in total. However the preparation for the army's dispatchment here was not added to the calculation. If added it will reach around three months and half or worst, it can go around four months.

"Ahem… excuse me…" Amber said to get the attention of everyone who suddenly fell silent.

As everyone's eyes fell on her I can't help but look at her in astonishment. How can she speak in the middle of a serious discussion? It's better for her to shut her mouth if she has nothing good to say.

Vithar looked at her quizzically. "It seems like you want to impart something to us."

"Actually, in your calculations you have forgotten to add some very useful information."

"Which is?" Asherton asked with a raised brow.

"The Dythr or what you call Shir Dythr. We are Immortal with this we can say that we can be an asset in this battle."

I looked at her with my mouth opened slightly because of shock. Yes! How could I also forget about the existence of the gamers. In a short amount of time that they will be given they can become powerful and we should not forget that they will also be interested on events like this.

"If you announced these upcoming battles, you can get the participation of the Shir Dythr. We may be weak now since we just arrive however if you give us time, a month, you can expect to have a very powerful allies who can give enough time for the city to survive for three to four months."

Everyone started to have a thoughtful expression as they took in what Amber said.

"Another positive point about us is we are immortal. Even if we die we can come back and continue to fight."

"That's true…" Hans said as he had a very serious look. "I have not thought of adding Shir Dythr because they are a new existence that we are not knowledgeable about. However if we add them in the equation they will surely tip the scale to our favor."

"If we put out quests to the Shir Dythr for killing monsters in the Sleeping Forest many of them will go and willingly mobilize for raiding parties." Amber added.

Indeed, for the gamers this is a great opportunity to level up and find some rare items form enemies. With additional rewards thrown in they will definitely take the bait.

"Shir Dythr is just new to us so we do not know how they operate. No one in the continent has ever thought of hiring Shir Dythr for such battles. However if what you say is true then they can be a real power booster for the war."

"Rewards of money, rare items and fame can bait Shir Dythr into joining any battle." Amber said with complete certainty. "These things are the icing on top of the cake… however the most important thing for us is to raise our levels. By entering battles we gain levels and grow stronger."

"I see why I had been receiving reports from the adventurer's guild in the city that there has been a large number of Shir Dythr going to them asking for quest that they can get. However there are only few adventurers before so they have only limited number of quests being filed to them."

"Well, you might want to put out as many quest as you can in the adventure's guild since most of us are jack of all trade… we can do almost any quest that can be given. Taking quest, gaining levels and increasing our strength so that we can widen our horizons to explore the new world is what the true Shir Dythrs are."

Everyone was so silent after Amber stopped talking. Indeed for them our existence was an enigma. Unlike them exploring and becoming strong are not really the common goals that they have.

For them taking quests and increasing level, exploring dungeons, battling in wars and fighting monsters were things less done by people. The coming of Shir Dythr will surely change the world they now knew.

Since the Shir Dythrs are new to the people they don't usually get requests or quest to do from the people so they usually go to Adventurer's guild to get quests but it only has limited quests because adventurers are very uncommon nowadays that it is not as thriving as they usually are in games.

But now, the adventurer's guild which is not as thriving as it was before will become different in a month or two as the number of gamers increases. There is no doubt that this certain guild will bloom to become one of the biggest organizations in the continent.

If the Vithar agrees with this plan this will surely be the first time the true worth of Shir Dythrs will be realized and will be the starting point of continues numbers quest will be sent for them to do.

"How many Shir Dythrs are registered here in our city?" Vithar suddenly asked Asherton breaking the spell the room fallen into.

"From the latest report I have read regarding the Shir Dythrs, The number is already around a thousand… and this report was yesterday around 10 in the morning..."

I tilted my head as I heard the report. Thousand… that was big enough but I believe that the numbers might have sky rocketed after that time since I heard from the interview on the TV that a large number of people have logged in. Though there are a lot of designated starting points within the Continent of Ailanthus there is a high possibility that many has also arrived here.

Maybe the increase in monsters and its activities are responses to the increase of Shir Dythrs. However this is only a speculation since it might just be a coincidence.

"Please give me a moment to go and call the settlement office to get the exact numbers now." Asherton said as he stood up and left the room in a hurry.

As the door closed behind the retreating back of Asherton the room became silent again but it was once again broken as Amber started to talk after a minute of silence.

"I also have a suggestion regarding the issue about the Black Mountain Pass…" She started, each eye were focused on her.

I believe that she was able to get recognition from these people. Well… I'll just wait and see what happens.

"I believe we can have a plan B, aside from having someone to travel the original route I think it is possible to also send someone to go through the Black Mountain Pass. I propose that I and Zeift will go through this route."

"Eh?" I can't help but say in a whisper as I looked at her.

Everyone who was looking at her looked at me instead. Cold sweat run through me as their attention was transferred to me.

"I agree…" despite the nervousness assailing me I said it with a steady and confident voice. I really hope that my appearance also was the same. " Since I and Amber are both Shir Dythrs we can somehow manage to cross over the mountain."

"That is true…" Crofton said however there was still some doubt that can be seen in his face. "But you have to at least bring some man with you."

"No… I and Zeift are enough for this."

Really? I can't help but shout in my mind. Can the two of us do this?

"With this you won't have to really rely on us since we are only back-up plan. If we arrive before the first team it will be fine but if not then we still have the first team and we can relay on the other Shir Dythrs to make the city safe until the army arrives." She continued as I internally doubt her plan.

"I see… that plan is indeed plausible." Hans agreed as he evaluated the plan said by Amber.

"However I have one condition…" She added.

"What condition? The general asked.

"We are given one week to prepare. As of now our levels are not enough to survive the mountain. However in one week I believe we can survive enough to arrive at the other side."

"One week?"

"Yes… you can let the first team go earlier and we will travel in a week's time."

"Can you really become strong in only a week?"

"Yes we can… as you know Shir Dythrs are special."

I really can't understand why Amber is that confident. She seemed used to talking to higher ranked people or maybe she can do it because she still thinks of this as a game.

They continued to talk about the new plan while I remained silent and only spoke in a reserved manner. I don't actively participate however Amber had a way of make me decide the crucial points. Somehow it seemed like Amber is like my spokes person on how she gives advices to the other men and makes me say the final yes.

If someone looked at it in another view it seems like she is my subordinate that was speaking for me. How weird…

Despite the hustle and bustle, we were able to make a rough plan of what we will do. As they were fine-tuning the plan Asherton finally arrived back.

"So what is the situation?" As he took his sit Vithar asked him.

Taking a deep breath he looked at Vithar and answered. "Since the last time I received the update of the Shir Dythrs, The current number of Shir Dythrs have increased by leaps and bounds!" He exclaimed as he seemed to surpress the excitement he was feeling.

"Come on what is the total number… don't keep us waiting." Eberhard said.

"The total number of the Shir Dythrs exceeds 10 thousand in numbers and we can expect that they will continue to increase!"

"Impossible!" Eberhard exclaimed with shock written across his face.

"I know how unbelievable this is but it is true… Actually the increase can be noticed by the number of inns being used by them. There is also an increase of activity of request to hunt outside the city. Since after the incident we have forbade the passage to Sleeping Forest many have been roaming around the city killing monsters. However these monsters are so few in number that it can not accommodate the increase of Shir Dythrs who are looking for battle.

"I believe that we should move fast so that they can start killing monsters and increase their levels." Amber said as she heard the report.

Standing from his chair Vithar started to give instructions one after another.

"Eberhard call the Adventurer's guild so that we can make a plan for what quest to give them, the faster the better so that we can publicly announce it and gather as many Shir Dythrs as we can."

"I understand… What are we to announce to the public masses about the incident then? Will it not cause panic if we make the problem public?"

"No, tell them that the Shir Dythrs will be an asset and that they will assist us. Make it as agreeable as it can be so that the public will understand why their presence will help secure the city."

"I understand! Then I will excuse myself…" He said and bowed before leaving in a hurry.

"William, I want you to check the city accounts and possible rewards that we can give the Shir Dythrs as a reward for the quest. I also want you to communicate with the Adventurer's guild on how to go on about that."

"Yes Vithar…" He bowed and also left the room.

"Asherton prepare for the first team to go to the City of Wyndborn and also handle the other cities to be alerted about the issue and ask for assistance."

"Yes Vithar…" He answered and also left.

The only ones remaining inside the room are the people from the military, us and Vithar.

Looking at the general, "I want you to continue monitoring the monsters inside the forest and from there formulate the kind of quest that will be sent to the Adventurer's guild which will be handled by the Shir Dythrs." He paused and then continued. "I want these quest handled to them the soonest possible time."

"Yes Vithar…"

With a nod of approval the Vithar stood up and prepared to leave. However before he left from the door he looked at us and spoke.

"Your assistance has truly helped us. We shall meet again and talk about it after everything has been settled." With that he left the room leaving us together with General Crofton and the others.

The meeting continued as the General assigned tasked to the other officers in the room. When he came to us he just said that we will be the one to think on ways to become stronger as Amber suggested a while ago.

With that the long meeting finally ended with an outcome of having a mission to go to the City of Wyndborn in a week's time.

* ~ * ~ *

Outside of the city castle I stood with Amber. Reijir and the others have tasks to do so they have to leave.

"So what is your plan?" She said.

"Um… since we have to strengthen ourselves because we have to go to the Black Mountain Pass in a week I think I want to visit the library to gather enough information on what profession to get."

"I see, you still have no profession…"

"Yes…"

"Since you have to do something I will be parting with you here."

"Yeah…"

"Ok… but I'll be adding you to my friends list so I can contact you if anything happens."

"Same here…" I answered as I accepted the friend's request that popped in front of me.

You were added as a Friend by <Amber>

A Friend Request was sent to you. Would you like to add her to your friend list?

<Yes>

"You can contact me if anything happens." I said to the retreating back of Amber. I always thought she was really annoying since she was bossy and aggressive but I can see that she was just awkward in communication but deep inside I have a feeling she will be a good friend.

I gave a loud sigh when I was already alone. Looking at the time in-game it was still 7 in the morning. I can't believe how complicated things got. One thing happened after another leaving me in a rush that I suddenly felt as if the one day that I was here inside Parallel seemed to be so long.

With another deep sigh I walked in a bench near a tree which was hidden making it a good secluded place to process everything that happened.

As I sat down I opened the main menu and went to <Character Info Menu>.

As my attribute and character information hovered in front of me I still can't believe how I came from level 2 to level 6 to level 15 in only a span of one day.

My attributes did not change since I have not used any of my AP points that I got. Right now since I am already level 15 the total AP I have is 75 points. Though my Attributes did not change my Natural Stats seemed to have increased.

Health: 750

Mana: 750

Attributes

Stats that can be increase with the use of AP

Strength: 2

Constitution: 3

Stamina: 3

Intellect: 3

Soul: 2

Luck: 1

Dexterity: 3

Agility: 3

Natural Stats

Stats that automatically increase due to Attributes, Equipment and other means

Info: Stats under <Natural Stats> can not be increased by means of Attribute Points

Attack Power: 11.5

Magic Power: 13.5

Defense: 13.5

Evade: 13.5

Critical: 7.5

Recast Time: 13.5

Speed Casting: 13.5

It seems like the Natural Stats increases by .5 every one level up. Since I can't pick which stats to increases in this section, having all of them increase by.5 every level up is already enough.

After checking my attributes I checked my equipment. Since <Short Sword> was already destroyed I was anxious to see what I can do about my other equipment.

Opening my equipment I was shocked to see that < Tribal Protector>, <Tyr's Leather Tunic>, <Rabbit's Foot>, <Elves Boots > and <Ancient Belt> were also missing. It seems like I missed the alert when their durability hitting zero and disappearing.

I consciously looked at my cloth to see that I was wearing my original cloth when I first arrived here. I can't believe that I went to the meeting looking like this. How mortifying.

With a sigh I looked at the remaining item which was <Manna Gloves >. Its remaining durability was 20. I have to see if I can find someone to repair it or buy a new one.

Right now I got 100 gold nuts which were from the original money I had plus the money I got from hunting. I truly grieve for the items I lost but I was thankful because they surely saved me.

The items from the hunt was very few and it was even distributed to the party members so almost all the items I have were not that good especially now that I am level 15 most of the items I have were for low level characters. Maybe I can sell those and buy a new one instead.

With another sigh, again, I suddenly remember the item that Reijir gave me before we parted awhile ago. If I remember it clearly it he said it was mine. I was unable to ask about it further because he left soon after handing the item to me.

Looking at my inventory I finally found the item.

<Mysterious Box> (unsellable, untradeable)

Description: A mysterious box with an inscription of <Zeift> written on it.

How curious for such an item I have never seen to have an inscription of my name. Selecting the item I made it materialize in my hand. It was a size of a fist and was enough to hold it in one of my hand.

Checking around the box I found that my name was indeed written on it. As I touched my name a sudden pop-up appeared.

Character identified…. Check.

Security unlocked….

Would you like to open the box?

Hmnn… It seems like it has a character recognition security. Unless it is the person who it was meant to open, it will never open.

Selecting after selecting <Yes> another pop-up appeared.

A message was left on the box.

Would you like to listen?

Ha? Whoever left this has also left a message.

<Yes>

As I selected to hear the message, suddenly a small bright white ball appeared in front of me. It has three rings moving around it and a sound like summer bells ringing in the background can be heard.

"....."

"Greetings!" I can hear a voice after a minute of waiting. "We have to leave because your associates have entered the forest. That is why I was unable to give the items you deserve to have. You were unconscious so I had to leave it behind for them to see and give it to you."

Recognizing the voice I suddenly shot up from my sitting position. "You!" I nearly shouted as emotions swirled in my chest. The memories of what happened seemed to swarm me just by hearing his voice.

"Nivare…" I said however the voice did not seem to care of my current situation and continued to speak.

A minute has passed and the voice already died down but the emotions were still swirling in me. With a loud 'thump' I sat back down the bench. The message was recorded and was not really the guy. I repeated these in my mind as I took in few deep breaths.

Well, I guess Nivare has a strong effect to me. I see him as a representation of the attack. Calming down my emotions I decided to listen to the message again.

This time I was able to concentrate to what he was actually saying instead of the guy. I stayed silent as I continued to listen.

"Greetings, we have to leave because your associates have entered the forest. That is why I was unable to give the items you deserve to have. You were unconscious so I had to leave it behind for them to see and give to you. I just wish that they will pass the item since even if they keep it they won't be able to open it up."

With a brief pause the message continued. "I have collected all the items that were dropped by the monsters that you have killed and put them inside the box. I believe this will help you in your quest to gather strength."

As the message ended a pop-up appeared in front of the message ball.

A message was left on the box.

Would you like to listen again?

According to the message he left, he gathered all the items I was unable to get after killing those monsters because he suddenly appeared. Well, at least he gave some thought of getting them and to giving it to me.

<No>

After selecting <No> the message ball disintegrated into small light and disappeared. A new popup message replaced it.

Would you like to open the box?

<Yes>

Then the box was engulfed by light and a pop-up appeared in front of me.

You have opened the box.

You have received

20 <Potion>

5<High Potion>

<Sea's Echo Bracelet >

<Hawk's Bow>

2 <Blue Tears Earring >

20 <Fang>

<Werewolf's Eye >

200 gold nuts

Looking at the items I received, I cannot help but look at it with my mouth hanging open.

I excitedly looked the items however my excitement was crushed because I can't equip all the items now. The only ones I can equip was are the <Stardust Cape>, <Blue Bell>, <Silver Hope Ring> and <Dusk Tunic>. Despite this all of them were good quality items.

< Stardust Cape > (Sellable & Tradable)

Description: A cape made from fine leather and entrenched by the power of Stardust.

Type: Ordinary

Class: Common

Rank: B

Durability: 150/150

Effect: + 10 to magic hit rating

Bonuses: + 5 to Magic Attack

Special Effect: None

Restriction: None

< Blue Bell > (Sellable & Tradable)

Description: A Bell created by the owner with the thought of the sea.

Type: Ordinary

Class: Common

Rank: C

Durability: 100/100

Effect: + 5 to Defense

Bonuses: None

Special Effect: None

Restriction: None

< Silver Hope Ring > (Sellable & Tradable)

Description: A sliver ring made by someone full of Hope.

Type: Ordinary

Class: Common

Rank: B

Durability: 100/100

Effect: + 10 to Intelligence

Bonuses: Increase Stamina by 5 points

Special Effect: None

Restriction: None

< Dusk Tunic > (Sellable & Tradable)

Description: A tunic made during the Dusk. The one who made it had used the energy that flows during the Dusk.

Type: Ordinary

Class: Common

Rank: B

Durability: 150/150

Effect: + 5 to Intelligence, + 5 to Defense

Bonuses: Reflects dark magic by certain probability. Increase Magic resistance to Dark magic

Special Effect: None

After equipping the four items I decided to keep the others until I can use them. Most of them requires Level 20 and above to use. For the remaining equipments I can just buy them at the store.

Since I got 200 gold nuts from the box I have a total of 300 gold nuts so it is possible to get better equipment later. Somehow I don't know if I should be thankful to Nivare because of this.

With a shake of my head I decided to let these confusing thoughts at the back of my head and continued to look at the menu in front of me.

Now I decided to check my <Quest> menu to see what quests where still processing and what are complete.

Checking at the incomplete quests I saw that there was only one. It was the Quest <Strength to Save a Friend>, which I have no doubt that was the quest regarding Nivare.

Description: Nivare a powerful enemy demanded that you become stronger to save your friend.

Quest Type: Unique

Quest Rank: '???'

Quest Parameter:

- '???'

Quest Reward:

- '???'

Looking at the quest there was no useful information on it. Well, for now what I have to do is gain level. I thought as I looked at the complete quests.

As I looked at the complete quests it seems like I have finished only two. The first one was <A Friends Generosity I> and the second was <Flower of Luck>. Maybe I should try looking for quests later I thought as I closed my game menu. Leaning my head on the bench I cleared my mind and started to make my proprieties and plan.

I stayed in this position for a while as I enjoyed the cool air and warm sunlight. This peace will be a moment to treasure since it will become busy later on.

A few more minutes later I reluctantly stood up and stretched my body. Well, better get things started! I thought as I walked towards the library. My first priority will be to gather information about my race and other information I needed to select the best profession I can get.

~ 0o0o0o0o0o0o0o0 ~

Terms

Ryliz – a title, highest title given to a ruling aristocrat who was given power by the monarch to govern a region.

Thyrl – a title, given to a ruling aristocrat who was given power by the monarch to govern a level 3 city-state.

Vithar – a title, given to a ruling aristocrat who was given power by the monarch to govern a level 2 city-state.

Xirth – a title, given to a ruling aristocrat who was given power by the monarch to govern a level 1 city-state.

Darth – they are a stone that contains strong mana properties, usually used to strengthen the defense of a castle.

~Tyr – is a common title of respect added to a name. It can be used with both male and female names, and with either surnames or given names. It can also be attached to the name of occupations and titles.

To be continued

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