Chapter 3

I awoke to Xela crouched in front of me, which almost caused me to scream because it was still dark. She quickly covered my mouth with a hand while simultaneously pressing her index finger to her lips. She then proceeded to point to my right. I slowly turned my head, and in the distance I could see light coming torwards us. Xela leaned closer to me.

"It's a group of raiders They've caught our scent, so we need to move.", she whispered so low I could barely hear.

I looked at her and furrowed my brow, "Is that not dangerous? We could get killed."

"We'll die if we stay. If you want to wait for them to find you so be it, that'll give me more time to get away.", Xela's spoke raising her voice some to emphasize how serious she was.

I looked to the growing light and then back to Xela, "Alright lead the way."

I slowly stood up, doing my best not make to much noise. Clutching my dagger in my right hand, I began to follow Xela as she turned and began to continue east. It was extremely dark, and the little bit of moon light barely broke through the canopy of the forest at all. After about ten or so minutes I was squinting as I looked around trying to find Xela.

Shit, did I really lose her? My heart was starting to pound, and I was gripping the dagger so tight it was sure to break.

A branch behind me snapped causing me to jump and turn around. Something was creeping in dark maybe fifteen feet from me. I brought my dagger up in front me ready to defend myself while doing a small side step hoping to catch a glimpse of what was lurking in the dark. It didn't help that my left arm was still out of commission. After a few more seconds of the leaves rustling a pair of yellow eyes cut through the darkness like a tiny flame. Whatever this thing was, it was at least five and half feet tall. I stepped back and I guess luck wasn't on my side because I stepped on several twigs that all snapped in unison. The pair of eyes looked directly at me.

"Oh fuck.", I muttered.

The pair of eyes began to charge at me, and before I could do anything I could faintly make out what looked like a giant tiger. This large black tiger  thing also had two large horns as black as midnight protruding from its head. It was on me within seconds, and unsure of what to do or how to even begin to combat this thing, I held my arm up to protect myself. I felt that same sting run up my entire arm. When I opened my eyes, the tigers face was so close that it's whiskers could tickle my nose. I stepped around the side of it and saw that a large pillar of solid blood had entered the midsection of the beast. It went so deep it came out the other side.

Wow, did I really do that? I wasn't sure how I made this happen.

My mind was so focused on not pissing my pants, so I was completely amazed by the fact that I had used my magic.

"Not so tough are we now.", I said as I patted the side of the dead animal.

"I think I heard someone. Quick this way.", a deep voice said.

My victory was short lived as leaves began to rustle and branches began to break. There was a group running in my direction, which meant it was time to move. Since they were behind me I assumed my direct front was east, so I started running. After putting some distance in between me and the raiders, I slowed my pace to a walk and continued on. My entire situation was a complete shit show. I was alone in a dark forest where everything was trying to kill me. Nothing cluld be better. I pressed on for a little while longer until my feet needed a break.

As soon as I can, I have to get some new shoes. I thought.

Sitting down on a fallen log, I placed my dagger at my side and proceeded to slip my shoes off. The low quality dress shoes were about to fall apart completely and they were rubbing my feet raw. There were already a few blisters forming on my heels. I really wasn't having a good time. After giving my feet a moment to rest I slipped my shoes back on, and right when I was about to stand up I found a hand on my mouth and a blade pressed against my back.

"Who are you and what do you want?", It was Xela, and she was about to send me back to Alfina.

I threw all my body weight forward causing her to release her hold on my mouth as I rolled. After I stopped myself I turned around and held my good hand up.

"Wait, wait, Xela it's me.", I said hastily.

"Aric? Where did you go? You had me worried.", she said with a sigh of relief, "Are you okay?"

"Yeah I'm fine. I managed to kill some weird animal, but that's about the extent of my adventure. As to your question, one second I was behind you the next you were gone.", I replied.

She reached out and touched my head and then traced down to my hand, "I'm going to hold your hand till we get out of here, so you don't get lost again. We're close to the end of the forest."

She helped me to my feet, and began to lead me on to freedom, which felt like it took forever. Although it was refreshing when we finally burst through the tree line. The moonlight shone down on us illuminating everything. The bright blue light gave off was refreshing to the eyes, finally being able to see again. The next greatest thing to happen was the amazing and warm smile Xela gave me.

With a breathy sigh Xela said, "Well we made it out so we should be safe for now. If you want we can rest until day break or we can continue on."

I stared at her as I pondered her statement. A small breeze blew by us for a brief second, which brought a wonderful coolness to the summer night air. It also made her hair flow in the wind like black silk down a river. I wasn't sure what it was about Xela, but honestly I'd follow her anywhere. She was the most beautiful being I've ever met besides Alfina. Xela moved forward and lightly patted my cheek.

"Are you okay?", she asked her voice dripping with concern.

"You're so beautiful.", I muttered in response.

She raised an eyebrow, "What did you say?"

I blinked twice finally returning to my normal head space, "Oh, nothing. I was just saying we can head on to Koth. I'd like to sleep in a bed away from danger."

"Agreed.", she nodded at me.

After several small hills, around a mountain, and a lot of complaining we finally saw Koth. We were looking down at the decent sized city as it was beginning to come to life due to the fact that the sun was had just made its way into the sky. Luckily it was still early in the morning, and the sun wasn't to high. Otherwise, the heat would be overwhelming, and I'd probably be passed out.

First step find a healer. After that some new clothes and bed to sleep in. I thought as we reached the city gates.

Xela had barely broken a sweat and didn't show really show much if any signs of fatigue. I, on the other hand, was panting, covered in sweat, and my feet were torn to hell. Hopefully blisters would be covered with my healing treatment. Our movements slowed to a crawl before we completely stopped. Xela stood tall as two guards approached us, while I was leaned over trying not empty the contents of my stomach that wasn't there. They both had menacing looks on them until one of them cracked a wide grin.

"Xela, my favorite adventurer, how are you?", The one on the left asked.

She smiled back, "I'm good Till. Unfortunately, I don't have time to chat. I've got a guy who needs to see a healer, and I need to rest. It's been a long night, but say 'hi' to the family for me."

Till looked around her to look me over, and when he saw my arm his eyes went wide for a second, "Alright head on in and stay safe, Xela."

"Thanks Till.", she said before motioning for me to follow her.

Standing up straight I began to follow her, as both the guards stepped aside to let us pass. Coming through the large stone arch way, we were greater by large crowds of people moving through the wide streets. Seeing all the buildings up close made the city seem even larger than seeing it from the hill. It was almost terrifying because it resembled a large maze. We continued our steady walk for a minute, maneuvering our way through the swarms of people in transit. It wasn't until we reached, what I was sure was the center of the city, that Xela stopped and turned to me.

"Alright you have two choices. We can either go ahead and look for some new clothing for you, or we can stop by a healer.", she said as she pointed in two different directions as she spoke.

I scratched the back of my head with my good arm as I thought for a moment, "Uh, I want to say new clothing, but I don't have any money."

She waved a hand at me, "I'll cover the costs, and I'm gonna give you half the reward for my quest as a 'thank you' for going through the forest with me."

"But I didn't do anything, and I can let you pay for me. I mean I'm a stranger to you.", I said as my cheeks heated up at the fact that I was flat broke.

"So you don't want to partner up anymore?", she asked raising her eye brows as she placed her hands on her hips.

I was taken aback by this because I wasn't expecting her to accept my offer, "Um, yes I do want to..."

"Okay then, as your partner it's my job to help you, and you deserve part of the reward.", she cut me off with a matter of fact kind of tone, "Now lets go."

She turned on heels, and began heading down a street to our right. I trailed behind her still feeling embarrassed by my situation, but I was in a corner and she was my only way out. The city was very alive with people shopping, eating, conversing, and many other activities. I was pretty sure I even witnessed some gang activity, but Xela made me keep walking. She told me it was best not to get involved with matters that didn't concern me. It was definitely for the best that I didn't stay and watch the outcome, but then again I was curious.

Xela stopped in front of small building that had a sign hanging out front with a language that I couldn't read. The only reason I knew it was a clothing store was, because of the wooden stands sitting in the front window displaying clothes. We entered the store, which was already being browsed by other patrons. All of which appeared to be very wealthy. The little clothing that I could see also seemed like it would be very pricey. This caused me to look at Xela with an eyebrow raised.

"Um, I know I agreed to you paying, but all of this seems like it's very expensive.", I muttered in her ear.

She waved me off as a young woman around five and half feet with red hair pulled back in a tight ponytail approached us. She was wearing an outfit similar to that of a maid just less flashy. She gave us a wide smile before her red lips parted.

"Hi I'm Zeralla. What can I help you two with today.", The small red head said.

Xela wasted no time getting to the point, "I want my friend here outfitted with two or three outfits made of your finest material."

"You got it! Right this way sir!", Zeralla said joyfully.

When I didn't move Xela gave me a light kick in this shin followed by a glare. This got me moving because I didn't want to know what awaited me if I pissed her off.

Following the young female, she led me to a small room off to the side. This room was full materials, wooden stands, and tools for tailoring. Zeralla went over to one of the cluttered tables, and only returned to me once she found what she was looking for. A tape measure. She gave me a look like she was waiting for something, and I knew what that meant. She wanted me to undress.

Well shit. I thought. Do I really have to?

She coughed.

I sighed as I began to use my good arm to unbutton the tattered gray button up. Managing to get it off with causing myself too much pain in my bad arm, I kicked off my shoes and unbuttoned my pants before slipping out of them. I covered the bulge showing through my boxers, as I noticed Zeralla looking me over with a hungry gaze. Even though she was cute, I felt extremely uncomfortable being almost completely naked in the back of her shop. Had this been about any other situation, I might have reciprocated her attention.

"So, can we get this done. I'd rather not spend my time standing in my underwear.", I said with a small, nervous chuckle.

Her eyes followed my body up to mine, "Of course sir. Please stand here ."

She indicated for me to stand on an area of the floor that was raised up. I moved over and stepped up still keeping my junk covered until I looked in the mirror. I was shocked by the image that I saw. Nothing about my appearance was familiar except my face. My hair was no longer the light brown it use to be. It was now snowy white, and my body was toned. All my muscles looked like they had been chiseled to perfection. My eyes were also different. Instead of a dark green they were so deeply red they almost looked black.

No wonder everyone does a double take.

Zeralla began to start taking my measurements, and occasionally I would catch her looking me over.

"Alright sir, all done.", Zeralla said to me.

Jumping for joy on the inside I quickly put my clothes on before being lead back out to where Xela was waiting. I went to stand beside her as we looked back to Zeralla.

"I have all his measurements. Give me three or so hours, and I will have his outfits ready. You can pay me then.", she said.

"Very well. Aric let's go get something done about your arm.", Xela said turning for the door.

"You got it.", I responded relief flooding my body.

My arm was grabbed stopping me in my tracks and Zeralla reached up on her tip toes to whisper in my ear.

"Come visit me alone sometime.", she said seductively in my ear causing me to shiver.

I gulped as I gave her a small nod. She released my arm and I quickly made my exit. Xela shook her head at me as I came out the door.

"What?" I asked.

She smiled at me, "Oh nothing. Let's go."

"Oh, okay.", I mumbled.

Over the course of a few hours we had went to a healer named Alnin. He fixed my arm for a fee of fifty tals, which was the name of the currency here. After that Xela took me to a tavern to eat, which she also paid for. This costed ten tals. Lastly we headed back to the Zeralla's shop to retrieve my new attire. This made my stomach hit the floor because of the price. Even with the discount we were given, the price still came out to be four hundred and fifty tals. I cursed Xela for making me let her pay, but what could I do? Each set of clothes was wrapped in brown paper, and there was a pair of boots on top of the packaged clothing.

Must be what Xela was talking to her about. I thought.

Once Xela had paid for the items we left the shop and returned to the tavern, which was called The Moonlight. That explained the crescent moon on the wooden sign. Xela had me wait next to the stairs while she rented the rooms. She came back after a few moments with two sets of keys.

"I got us rooms right beside each other, and they're ours for the next week. This'll give me time to catch you up to speed about Lorna and for me to help you develop your magic.", she said as she held one of the keys out to me.

I took the key and looked at her before asking , "After said week are we splitting ways or what?"

She shrugged, "I planned for you to accompany me for a while, but if you think we should part then..."

"Oh, no that's not what I meant.", I said interrupting her, "It just seemed like after a week you were leaving."

"I will be. Being an adventure requires me to travel, so I can complete tasks. If I stay in one place the amount of income could stagnate.", she replied.

I nodded, "Oh, I get it. So where will we be headed after Koth?"

She waved my question off, "We can talk about this at dinner. For now go set your stuff down, get changed and meet me back here."

My eyebrows shot up, "We going somewhere?"

She gave me a small nod, "I have to go collect our reward and you have to get registered with the guild, so you can take on quests."

I gave her a quick thumbs up before heading up the stairs. I had to carefully look at the doors to match the symbol to the key. My room was the fourth door down on the right side. I slid the key in the lock and turned it causing a small click. Pushing the door opened I stepped into the room. It was small and contained a twin sized bed, a table with two chairs, and a small wardrobe. It wasn't much, but it was better than the forest. I placed the three packages, and boots on the bed before sitting down. My legs were aching after all the walking. Taking the weight off them was blissful, but now I could feel the blood pumping through them. My body was ready to rest, but I still had stuff to do before then.

I opened the top package, which contained a pair of brown leather pants and a silky, burgundy dress shirt. It was very fine and smooth. Something like this would've costed many hundreds alone in my world. The pants were soft as well. They didn't crackle like cheap leather, and they were stitched together so perfectly. I proceeded to strip off my crappy dress shoes and tattered clothes, trading them for the expensive garments before me. Lastly I pulled on the boots, which fit my feet just as perfectly as the clothes. They even felt better on my feet than my original shoes. All in all I felt like a new man.

Returning to the bottom of the stairs I gained a glare for Xela, "What took you so long?"

"I took a small breather to rest my legs. We've been walking all day.", I said back.

She sighed heavily, "Rest does sound nice. You look good by the way. Zaralla did you justice."

"Yeah, but was it worth the price?", I asked.

She looked me up and down, "I think it was. This gives me something pleasant to look at while we travel."

My cheeks heated up at her words, and at this moment I desired to be back in my original clothes. The amount of attention I was beginning to get from not only Xela, but every other female in the tavern was unnerving.

"So, the guild.", I said to get Xela back on track.

"Right. Let's get a move on.", she snapped before making her way to the door.

Xela did her best to stay in front of me the whole way to the Koth adventures  guild headquarters. I wasn't sure why, but she remained quiet and avoided any eye contact with me.

Did I do something to upset her? I questioned myself.

She didn't speak to me until we passed through the large wooden double doors.

"Registration is down that hall. Go get it started, and I'll meet you there.", she said pointing at the corridor to our right.

I was about to ask her what was bothering her, but she already turned and began walking away. I sighed as I followed the hallway all the way down, my boots making small tap that echoed through the hall. The hall opened up into a large room, which was filled with people. There many different races of all shapes, sizes, and gender forming multiple lines. At the end of these lines was a long counter that resembled something you'd see in a bank. Behind the counter was six people all bearing a pendant, which portrayed crossed swords. They were obviously employees.

Unsure of which line I should hop in, I went up to the nearest guy. He was a tall, bald man. He had the stature of a body builder, and he carried a large hammer on his back. Had I met this guy in my world I would have avoided him like the plague, but I had a question that needed to be answer.

"Excuse me sir.", I said to him.

He looked at me giving me a small grunt, "Whadya want?"

It felt like the temperature had sky rocketed. This guy didn't seem to be in a friendly mood.

I gulped as I forced myself to speak, "I-I, uh, I'm new here and I was just wondering where I needed to go to register for the guild?"

The man nearly fell in the floor as he burst out laughing.

"Don't get ya balls in a twist kid. I ain't gonna hurt cha. Registration's over there.", he said as he gestured to a small stand separate from the main counter.

"Oh. Uh, thanks for your help.", I said still feeling on edge.

The man nodded as he chuckled to himself. Wiping the few beads of sweat from my forehead, I made my way to the small stand. Behind it was man wearing a well tailored suit. He had short blonde hair, and ears like that of a dog. I had to do a double take to make sure I wasn't dreaming. He gave me a questioning look.

"Is there something I can help you with sir?", he asked his tone telling me he was annoyed.

I had trouble taking my eyes of the ears as I responded, "I need to register for the guild."

"Please hold out your right hand.", he said with a sigh of aggravation.

I did as he requested finally breaking the trance that his ears had over me. I looked down as he placed his hand over mine. A soft blue circle appeared in between our hands, and when it vanished remained a paper card. On this card was an image of my face along with a bunch information, but I couldn't read it due to it being in their language. He then placed a piece of paper in front of me along with a bottle of ink and a quill.

"Please read the contract, and sign your name.", his monotone voice fell on my ears.

I nodded as I looked down at the paper. Not understanding the words before me, I pretended to read before turning the paper over to write my name on the line at the bottom. Once I finished signing he handed me a pendant similar to the one I saw earlier.

"This pendant marks you as an adventurer. You are not required to wear it, but it makes you easily identifiable.", He then held the card up, "This is guild membership. It holds all the information about you, and can be altered to reflect any changes to yourself. This is required to take on quests and to receive rewards. If you lose or destroy it, a new one can be made."

I took both items placing them in my pocket, "Thanks for the help."

He didn't say anything, just gave me a small nod. I turned away and headed back to the hallway. I ran into Xela about halfway down. She seemed to be acting normal again seeing as we made eye contact.

"Are you all done?", she asked.

I nodded as pulled out the card and pendant.

"Good.", she said before holding out a small brown sack, "Here's your cut of the reward. I took on a quest for us to do tomorrow. Should be simple for the both of us, and it'll give you a chance to use your magic."

"Sounds great Xela.", I replied with a small yawn.

She gave me a smile as her cheeks flushed, "I guess we better get back to the tavern for some rest."

That was the best plan she had all day.