With a nod, Taliesin gestured to follow him, his manner calm and collected. "So, what do our esteemed guests require in this timely hour?" he asked with a slight grin, as if he were a seasoned concierge with decades of experience.
Geralt gave him a wary glance before muttering, "If this is… an inn, then I suppose we'll need a room. Somewhere we can regroup, gather our wits."
Vesemir raised an eyebrow. "And somewhere to catch our breath, if that's truly what you offer."
"An excellent choice," Taliesin replied smoothly, gesturing toward the grand elevator at the far end of the lobby. He moved toward it with a practiced ease, his posture exuding the relaxed confidence of someone who'd done this a thousand times.
Geralt and Vesemir followed, though their stance remained guarded, each keeping a hand close to their swords. They exchanged glances, both slightly taken aback by the elegant, polished doors of the elevator as they slid open with a soft hum.
Geralt's brows knitted together in suspicion. "Is… this our room?"
"Ah," Taliesin chuckled, "no, not quite." He gestured for them to enter. "This is a means of transportation to your floor, an unusual form of travel, I admit, but it'll take you to where you'll find rest."
The witchers exchanged another glance before cautiously stepping inside, both ready to strike at a moment's notice. Taliesin followed, unperturbed, his eyes gleaming with quiet amusement as he observed their wariness.
As they entered, Geralt's eyes lingered on the walls of the elevator, which seemed to shimmer with faint, ethereal light. It was unlike any magic he'd encountered before—if it was magic at all.
Taliesin noted the newly lit button on the panel, its glow subtly pulsing as if waiting for his touch. He pressed it, and the elevator began to ascend with a smooth motion, far gentler than the witchers expected. As the seconds passed, the two began to tense, hands hovering over their swords.
"There's no need for alarm," Taliesin said in a calm voice. "Avalon doesn't intend to harm you. Quite the opposite."
But the words did little to ease their unease. They kept silent, eyes fixed on the doors as the ascent continued, the light around them shifting from a warm, golden hue to something deeper, more muted, like twilight settling over an ancient forest.
The elevator doors opened with a soft chime, and Geralt and Vesemir stepped out into a scene that took them both by surprise. Rather than the dim, rugged ambiance of a witcher's fortress, they found themselves in the heart of what looked like a grand castle—one far more lavish than the rugged halls of Kaer Morhen.
The floor stretched before them in long, sweeping corridors adorned with polished stone walls that rose high overhead. Flickering torches lined the walls, casting a warm, golden glow across tapestries that depicted epic hunts, battles, and ancient emblems. Massive suits of armor stood at intervals along the corridor, their polished surfaces reflecting the light in soft glimmers. The tapestries weren't just art; they told stories of great heroes and beasts slain—a nod to the witchers' own history, but with an elegance rarely associated with their order.
Geralt scanned his surroundings, noting the pristine condition of everything, down to the faint gleam on the marble floors. Each detail was meticulously crafted, and yet the space felt strangely alive, as if the stones themselves held memories. The weight of the grandeur pressed on him, a reminder of how far removed this place was from the wilds they typically called home.
Vesemir took a slow, steadying breath. "This… isn't like Kaer Morhen at all," he muttered. "Feels like stepping into some noble's keep."
"Indeed," Taliesin replied, gesturing down the opulent corridor. "Avalon takes cues from its guests' lives, but enhances them—adding touches of luxury where they might not exist otherwise. Here, you'll find more than mere shelter. This is a sanctuary."
Geralt frowned, glancing between Taliesin and the corridor ahead. "Sanctuary's one thing, but this feels… excessive. We're witchers, not kings."
Taliesin smirked. "In Avalon, all guests are treated with the highest regard, no matter their profession. Come, your rooms await."
The witchers exchanged a cautious glance, then followed Taliesin down the corridor. Their boots echoed softly on the polished marble, a far cry from the creaking wood or crunch of gravel they were used to. They passed tall windows framed in dark oak, through which pale moonlight filtered in, casting silvery beams across the floor.
"This is far too grand for the likes of us," Vesemir said, a note of disbelief in his voice. "Avalon may have a fine way with hospitality, but we're not here for luxury. Witchers are best suited to the simpler things."
Taliesin paused, turning to face them with a knowing smile. "Simple or grand, all are welcome in Avalon. But I assure you, this is more than just a show of hospitality. The space is crafted to give its guests what they need—even if they haven't quite realized they need it."
As they reached a massive set of double doors, Taliesin pushed them open, revealing a room that looked even grander. They entered a circular chamber with high, vaulted ceilings, where an enormous chandelier dripped with candlelight that danced across the polished surfaces. A plush, deep red carpet spread across the floor, and at the far end, a pair of grand fireplaces flanked by intricate iron screens crackled warmly. Ornate chairs, finely crafted tables, and a spread of fresh bread, cheese, and wine awaited on a long dining table, as if a feast had been prepared just for them.
Vesemir's eyes widened. "Haven't seen this kind of luxury since… well, ever."
Geralt approached the table, inspecting the fine crystal goblets and silver cutlery. "You mentioned this place was… accommodating," he said, his tone skeptical. "But we're not accustomed to accepting something for nothing."
"Exactly," Vesemir added, his hand reaching to his coin pouch. "If you'll allow it, we'll pay for this service. We may be witchers, but we pay our debts."
Taliesin raised an eyebrow, amusement twinkling in his eyes. "There is no charge here, gentlemen. Avalon's hospitality is freely given to those who respect its walls."
"That may be," Geralt replied, pulling a coin from his own pouch and setting it firmly on the table. "But we don't take handouts. So, if you won't take payment, consider it an offering."
Taliesin chuckled softly, eyeing the coin for a moment before nodding, a glint of respect in his gaze. "As you wish. Avalon accepts your 'offering' with gratitude."
A soft voice drifted in from the corridor—Hecate's voice, smooth as silk but with an edge of intrigue. "You're proud, I'll give you that," she said, watching them with an almost appraising look from the doorway. "But Avalon's shelter is unlike anything you've seen before. What it offers, it offers freely. It's not something you can simply pay for with coin."
Vesemir glanced at her, a faint smile on his lips. "Maybe so, but our pride's all we've got left sometimes."
With a small, approving nod, Hecate replied, "Then keep your pride, witcher. But if you're willing to rest, know you are safe here." She gestured toward the doors leading to their individual quarters. "Your rooms await. Each is equipped to meet your needs. Rest. Replenish. There will be time for questions in the morning."
The witchers exchanged one final glance, wariness giving way to an unspoken agreement. Whatever this place was, it had given them more comfort than they'd felt in years. And for now, that was enough.
"Fair enough," Geralt said, his tone still cautious but touched with gratitude. "Thank you."
Taliesin inclined his head with a smile. "Sleep well, witchers. Avalon will keep you safe tonight."
Several hours later...
Arthur jolted awake, his mind still whirling with fragments of scattered dreams—visions of unfamiliar worlds, strange faces, and landscapes that seemed both awe-inspiring and ominous. The memories of these dreams slipped in and out of his grasp like water through his fingers. Yet he could still recognize certain things: flickers of a green forest, a dense, dark city, and the faint outline of a tower that had seemed impossibly tall.
Before he could ponder them further, a soft chime echoed in his mind, drawing his attention to the system panel hovering before him.
[System Notification: Level Up!]
[Current Level: 10]
[Adaptability: 6/10]
[New World Connection Established With Host's Body]
[World Connection: Witcher World]
Arthur's eyes widened, and a broad grin broke across his face. He practically leaped out of bed, his excitement barely contained. Finally, another world connection—a chance to interact with new kinds of magic, new beings, and possibly learn from seasoned warriors or mystics. He confirmed this through Avalon, which responded with a reassuring warmth, as though proud of the new bond.
He hurriedly took a quick, invigorating bath and donned his uniform, straightening it with a sense of renewed purpose. He practically dashed out into the arcane training room, where he found Taliesin and Hecate sitting together, resting from what seemed like a long night. They each held cups of steaming tea, the aroma of fresh herbs filling the room, their faces touched by a slight weariness from the night's energy accumulation.
Hecate looked up, an amused smile playing at her lips. "Good morning, Arthur. You're rather bright-eyed this morning."
"Mornin', lad," Taliesin chimed in, his voice rich with warmth as he sipped his tea. "Seems you've got a spring in your step. Excited, are you?"
Arthur could barely contain himself. "Avalon just confirmed that a new world connection was established overnight! I knew something felt different, did we have any guests come in while I was asleep?"
Hecate exchanged a glance with Taliesin, her eyes glinting with a quiet approval. "Yes," she answered smoothly. "Two of them, as a matter of fact. Arrived late last night in a bit of a rough state."
"Aye," Taliesin added, with a small chuckle. "They're the cautious type. But good men, as far as first impressions go."
Arthur's eyes lit up with curiosity. "Two? So, they're traveling together?"
"Exactly," Hecate replied, her gaze thoughtful. "They're likely still recovering from their journey and a few… unexpected surprises. I doubt they'll be up and about for a few more hours."
Arthur managed to calm himself a little, settling into a seat across from them, his fingers tapping absently on the table as he considered what this meant. He took a slow breath, trying to contain his excitement. "It feels… different, this connection. More rugged, maybe? As if Avalon itself absorbed something with a touch of iron and raw magic."
Taliesin gave him a knowing nod. "That would be about right, from what I felt when we helped Avalon absorb their world's energy. Their world is old and rooted in a different sort of energy—a blend of survival and danger, forged in rougher lands." He took a sip from his tea, his expression a mix of curiosity and humor. "And from what I could tell, they're no strangers to a bit of hard living."
Arthur leaned forward, interest piqued. "So… they're warriors?"
"Of a sort," Hecate answered, folding her hands around her cup. "Not quite like any guests you've met so far. They bear strength, but not the kind that comes from mere brute force. Think of them as specialists. It's a resilience hard-earned and not easily shaken."
Arthur nodded, his mind already reeling with the possibilities. "Thank you both for handling things last night. It's incredible to think how Avalon keeps evolving with every new connection. You two were here to see it grow before me, so I can only imagine how it must feel for you."
Taliesin's eyes twinkled with a smile as he gestured toward Avalon's ceiling. "It's like watching an old friend gain back their strength. And with each connection, Avalon becomes something closer to what it once was—though still unique in its own way."
Hecate lifted her cup, her gaze thoughtful. "If the new guests are any indication, Avalon is stepping into new territory. Let's see where this path takes us." She looked at Arthur with a spark of pride. "But for now, your excitement suits you. Enjoy it, Arthur. They'll be up soon enough, and you'll have the chance to meet them."
Arthur's grin returned as he glanced at the grand halls around him, each stone, each shimmer of light seeming a bit more vivid today. "Then I'll be ready for when they are."
As the conversation settled, Avalon's familiar voice chimed in, carrying a note of excitement. "Arthur, the recent energy accumulation is now sufficient for unlocking a new area. Would you like to proceed?"
Arthur's eyes lit up, his excitement barely contained. Each new area they unlocked added depth to Avalon, and the potential to expand its offerings was thrilling. He couldn't wait to see who or what Avalon might summon this time.
Taliesin gave an amused chuckle, standing up from his seat. "Well then, best get to it. Let's set things up before our guests wander down."
Hecate let out a small sigh, though a glimmer of anticipation brightened her eyes. "Indeed. To the lobby, then, and let's see who Avalon brings to us next."
Together, they made their way to the main lobby, where Avalon's interface appeared before Arthur, listing five potential new areas. Arthur scanned the list, noting a new addition—a training hall for martial skills—and the others, familiar from their previous selection.
The options unfolded, each area beckoning with unique potential:
{——————————————————————————}
The Enchanted Garden
– A lush, vibrant indoor garden infused with magical plants from various connected worlds. This space serves as a serene oasis and can be customized to grow specific herbs for guests or create potions in conjunction with Arthur's growing skill set.
Universal Pantry & Kitchen
– A fully equipped kitchen that connects to Avalon's pantry, stocked with ingredients and recipes from multiple realms. The pantry would automatically restock with signature ingredients based on connected worlds, allowing Arthur to explore unique culinary experiences for his guests.
The Multiversal Library
– A vast library containing tomes and magical knowledge from all connected worlds. As new worlds link with Avalon, this library would expand to house new texts, offering Arthur a broader knowledge base and a quiet sanctuary for his guests to study or relax.
Sanctuary Spa and Healing Room
– A restorative space for guests to relax and recover, designed with magical healing features. It could be especially useful for guests in need of rest and rejuvenation, with self-renewing potions, calming enchantments, and a spa atmosphere.
The Martial Training Hall
– A vast, well-equipped hall designed for physical and combat training. Guests could hone their martial skills, spar with practice dummies, and even study weapons from various worlds. This hall would appeal to those drawn to rigorous physical training.
{——————————————————————————}
Arthur looked at the options in awe, each possibility presenting Avalon with a new facet, a new means of supporting its guests. He glanced at Hecate and Taliesin, who studied the list with expressions both thoughtful and nostalgic.
"What do you two think?" Arthur asked, genuinely interested in their thoughts. "Each of these would bring something different, but I'd appreciate your insight."
Hecate's gaze lingered on the Enchanted Garden. "The garden could provide Avalon with an endless source of remedies, potions, and even elixirs beyond your current skills. The plants could be used to support your own skills as well, giving you resources when you're ready to explore alchemy more deeply."
Taliesin considered the Universal Pantry & Kitchen option, his eyes lighting up with enthusiasm. "And a kitchen—well, that would be Avalon's beating heart, wouldn't it? A place for guests to find comfort, warmth, and nourishment. Cooking can be its own kind of magic, lad. Imagine how that would brighten Avalon."
Arthur's gaze shifted to the library option. "The library seems… powerful. A chance to learn from other worlds, maybe even discover spells or histories I'd never have known otherwise."
Hecate nodded, her voice more measured. "Indeed, but a library holds great knowledge—and responsibility. It's a wealth of power, but it would require vigilance."
Then she turned to the spa with a faint smile. "A healing sanctuary would be invaluable, Arthur. A space dedicated solely to rest and recovery, so that Avalon is truly a refuge for all who come here."
Taliesin's gaze moved to the Martial Training Hall. "That would be something to see, wouldn't it?" His eyes twinkled with excitement. "A place for training in the art of combat. A martial hall would not only serve the guests' needs but give you a place to practice your own skills with real-world tools. You'll need that as Avalon grows, trust me."
Arthur nodded, taking in their insights. Each area offered a unique resource, and he felt a deep sense of responsibility as he prepared to make his decision.