James pushed open the heavy wooden doors of the Explorer's Guild, the familiar hum of activity greeting him as he stepped inside. Adventurers and explorers milled about, discussing quests, trading items, or simply resting after their expeditions into the labyrinth. Ofelia followed close behind, her expression reserved but curious as her eyes darted around the bustling room.
He approached the front desk, where a receptionist was busy sorting through a pile of papers. She glanced up as they approached, her professional demeanor slipping into a faint smile. "Good afternoon. How can I help you?"
"I'm looking to see if anyone's buying Blue Fox pelts," James said. "We've got a few from our last trip to the labyrinth."
The receptionist nodded and quickly flipped through a ledger. "Let's see… ah, yes. There's a client looking for four pelts. They're offering 2 silver coins per pelt."
"That works," James said. He glanced at Ofelia. "We've got eight total, but we'll sell four to complete the request."
The receptionist nodded and handed him a form to fill out. After a brief exchange, she took the pelts, inspecting them for quality before handing over 8 silver coins. Then she made them tap their Regalite on the little plate. "That completes the quest. Oh, and since Ofelia was listed as part of the team, her rank has been updated from G to F, Congratulations."
Ofelia blinked, a flicker of pride flashing across her face. "Thank you," she said softly, clutching her satchel tightly.
James pocketed the coins, feeling a small sense of accomplishment. As the receptionist began to organize the paperwork, he leaned forward. "By the way, I had a question. Do you know much about travel between towns? Like, how people usually get from one place to another?"
The receptionist tilted her head, her brows knitting in slight confusion. "Travel? Well, most adventurers use the Adventurer Service. Didn't you know?"
James frowned. "Adventurer Service? What's that?"
She gave him a puzzled look before her expression shifted to mild amusement. "It's a service offered by high-ranking adventurers. They can open portals to any place they've already visited. As long as the location is recorded on their Regalite, they can transport others as well—for a fee, of course. It makes traveling from town to town financially profitable for them."
James blinked, the revelation catching him off guard. "You're telling me I could just… portal to another town?"
"Precisely," the receptionist said with a nod. "It's efficient and much safer than traveling by road. Though not cheap, it's worth considering if you're planning to visit a distant city and don't have much to travel with."
James exchanged a look with Ofelia, her emerald eyes wide with curiosity. "And where would you recommend for someone looking for a bigger market than the one here?" he asked.
The receptionist tapped her chin thoughtfully. "If you're looking for high-scale trading and a variety of goods, there are two options. The capital, Ceryl, is the largest market in the region—filled with merchants, auctions, and opportunities. But it's quite expensive to live there." She paused. "The other option is Edima, the merchant town. It's smaller than the capital but still renowned for its vibrant trade scene. Plus, it's more affordable. By the way a drawback of this skill is that merchants can't transport objects that aren't stored in a subspace from their skill or carried directly by the travelers, like crates or wagons. So, for merchants, it's not actually profitable. As a result, it's mostly used by simple travelers or other guild members."
James nodded, committing the names to memory. "Ceryl or Edima… got it. Thanks for the info."
The receptionist smiled. "No problem. If you decide to use the portal service, let me know. I can connect you with an adventurer who offers it."
"Yes Thanks !", James suddenly remembered the items tucked away in his satchel. He glanced at Ofelia, then back to the receptionist. "Actually, there's something else I wanted to ask about."
The receptionist raised an eyebrow, motioning for him to continue.
James reached into his bag and pulled out the gauntlets and dagger they had found in the labyrinth. "We came across these on the first floor of the labyrinth," he explained. "They don't seem like the usual loot from monsters. Do you know how they ended up there?"
The receptionist's eyes widened slightly as she leaned forward to inspect the items. "Let me guess," she said after a moment, her tone serious. "You found them lying in the labyrinth, right? No sign of who they might have belonged to?"
James nodded. "Exactly. They were just… there."
She sighed, sitting back in her chair. "That's not uncommon. What you've got there are pieces made by a Magic Blacksmith. That's why they didn't disappear into the miasma like most things."
James frowned. "Miasma?"
The receptionist nodded. "When someone or something dies in the labyrinth—whether it's an adventurer, a monster, or even just a stray animal—their body gets absorbed by the labyrinth as miasma. It's part of how the labyrinth sustains itself. That's why you don't find corpses lying around in there."
She gestured to the gauntlets and dagger. "But items made by Magic Blacksmiths are different. They're crafted using materials from the labyrinth and infused with mana. That makes them resistant to the labyrinth's effects, so they don't get absorbed like everything else."
James glanced at the items in his hands, a chill running down his spine. "So… someone probably died where we found these?"
"Most likely," the receptionist confirmed. "An adventurer who wasn't lucky enough to make it out. Their body was taken by the labyrinth, but their magic infused gear remained behind." Her expression softened slightly. "It happens more often than you'd think."
Ofelia's face paled slightly as she looked at the items, her hands tightening around the strap of her satchel. "That's… unsettling," she said quietly.
James nodded, his grip on the items tightening. "What should we do with them?"
The receptionist shrugged. "If you can use them, they're yours now. It's not like the labyrinth is going to give you a receipt. Just remember, gear like that is valuable—anything made by a Magic Blacksmith is rare and highly sought after, especially by adventurers heading into the labyrinth."
"Good to know," James said, tucking the gauntlets and dagger back into his bag. He exchanged a glance with Ofelia, her expression still uneasy. "Thanks for the explanation."
"Of course," the receptionist said with a small smile. "Be careful out there. The labyrinth doesn't show mercy, no matter how prepared you think you are."
As they left the guild, James couldn't shake the weight of the explanation. The thought of someone dying where they'd found the items lingered in his mind, but he pushed it aside. For now, he had to focus on the living—and the future they were trying to build.
As they walk, James turned to Ofelia. "What do you think? Ceryl or Edima?"
She hesitated, her expression thoughtful. "Ceryl sounds exciting, but Edima… maybe it's a better place to start? We could ease into things without worrying about the cost."
James smiled, appreciating her practicality. "Good point. Let's look into Edima first. But before we do, we'll need to gather some more funds—and maybe gear up for the next trip into the labyrinth."
Ofelia nodded, her confidence growing with each small step forward. Together, they headed back into the bustling streets, their minds focused on the possibilities ahead.
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James and Ofelia made their way to Redan's shop, the familiar clang of tools and the scent of leather and metal greeting them as they stepped inside. The bustling sounds of the market faded behind them, replaced by Redan's gruff voice arguing with Mira from the adjoining weapon stall.
"I told you, a sturdy set of armor will save a life faster than any sharp blade!" Redan boomed, his large frame appearing from behind a counter. He paused mid-rant when he spotted James and Ofelia, his expression softening into a welcoming grin. "Ah, the young merchant and his partner! What brings you back so soon?"
James chuckled, running a hand through his hair. "The armor I bought from you took quite a hit during our last trip into the labyrinth. I was hoping you could take a look and let me know if it's salvageable—or if I need something new."
Redan stepped forward, gesturing for James to hand over the gear. As James unbuckled his chest piece and laid it on the counter, Redan let out a low whistle. "Looks like you've seen some action, lad. Labyrinth beasts, was it?"
"Blue Foxes," James confirmed. "We took down eight of them, but they were a bit tougher than I expected. My armor held up, but… well, it's seen better days."
Redan inspected the reinforced leather chest piece, his thick fingers running over the scratches and punctures. "The good news is, this can be repaired. It'll cost you three silver coins to patch it up properly. But if you're planning to keep going deeper into the labyrinth, I'd recommend upgrading to something sturdier. Reinforced leather's good for beginners, but you'll want chainmail or plate eventually."
James nodded thoughtfully. "I'll think about it. For now, go ahead and repair it."
"Consider it done," Redan said with a nod, setting the armor aside. "It'll be ready by tomorrow."
Before James said anything else, he pulled a pelt from his satchel and placed it on the counter. "By the way, I've got a few extra Blue Fox pelts. Interested in buying them?"
Redan's eyes lit up as he inspected the pelt, running his hands over the soft fur. "Good quality," he muttered. "I'll give you 2 silver coins per pelt. How many you got here?"
"Four," James replied.
Redan counted the pelts and handed over, minus the 3 for the repair, 5 silver coins without hesitation. "Always a market for good pelts, especially for lining gloves and boots. You bring me more, and I'll buy them off you anytime."
"Good to know," James said, pocketing the coins. "Thanks, Redan."
As Redan returned to his work, Mira appeared from the weapon side of the shop, her sharp eyes landing on James. "You're not here to buy weapons?" she asked, her tone teasing but firm.
"Not today," James replied with a grin. "Maybe after the next trip into the labyrinth."
Mira huffed but smirked. "Don't wait too long. Those Blue Foxes might not seem like much, but the monsters on the second floor will make you wish you had something better."
"Noted," James said, nodding to her and Redan. "Thanks again."
With their business concluded, James and Ofelia left the shop, the weight of the coins in his pocket giving him a sense of satisfaction.
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The sun had long since set by the time James and Ofelia returned to the Iron Hearth Inn. The wooden beams of the old structure glowed warmly in the light of the crackling hearth. The hum of low chatter from the other patrons created a cozy ambiance, and the scent of roasted meat and freshly baked bread hung in the air. James's stomach growled softly, reminding him they hadn't eaten since midday.
As they stepped inside, the familiar figure of Marlin was at the counter, wiping a tankard with a rag. But James barely had time to greet him before his eyes were drawn to the large man standing near the fireplace. Captain Hegor. His imposing frame was hard to miss, even in the dim light, and the flickering flames cast long shadows over his weathered features.
Hegor turned at the sound of the door creaking open, his piercing eyes locking onto James. His brows furrowed, and his expression shifted in an instant—from mild curiosity to outright shock.
"James!" Hegor boomed, his voice filling the room. A few patrons turned their heads at the sound, but Hegor didn't seem to notice. In three strides, he closed the distance between them, clapping a large, calloused hand on James's shoulder. The force of the gesture nearly knocked the wind out of him.
"You're alive! And walking!" Hegor exclaimed, his booming voice tinged with disbelief. "By the gods, lad, I thought you'd be bedridden—or worse!"
James blinked, stunned by Hegor's reaction. His shoulder still stung from the captain's enthusiastic greeting. "Uh… good to see you too, Hegor," he said cautiously. "What's this about being 'worse'? I was just tired, that's all."
"Tired?" Hegor repeated, his voice rising with incredulity. "Boy, the alchemist said you'd caught The Winter's Cold! That's no simple fatigue. Most folk don't survive it without proper treatment. When I saw you yesterday morning, burning up like a pyre, I thought…" He hesitated, shaking his head. "I thought you wouldn't make it through the night."
James frowned, his confusion deepening. He turned to Ofelia, who stood stiffly beside him, her emerald eyes wide and fixed firmly on the floor. "The Winter's Cold? An alchemist? Feli, what is he talking about?"
Ofelia's face turned a deep shade of crimson, and her hands gripped the strap of her satchel tightly. She shifted uncomfortably, her voice barely audible as she spoke. "I… I didn't want to worry you," she admitted, her words tumbling out quickly. "You collapsed, and I didn't know what to do, so I asked the captain for help. We called an alchemist, and they said it was The Winter's Cold. He feed you potions and left, and… I stayed with you until you got better."
Hegor interjected, his voice softer now. "She did the right thing, lad. The alchemist confirmed it was The Winter's Cold. It's a deadly fever, one that kills more often than not. If she hadn't acted, you wouldn't be standing here."
James felt a chill run through him, his mind racing to process the information. He opened his mouth to speak, but a memory flickered in his mind—a vivid, unsettling image that made his stomach churn. He hesitated, gripping the edge of a nearby table to steady himself.
The nightmare.
He remembered the nightmare from the night before, a horrible, suffocating experience. He'd been suspended, unable to move, his arms and legs held firmly in place. Something—someone—had forcefully pried his mouth open, and a cold, viscous liquid was poured down his throat. He had struggled, the taste acrid and metallic, but he couldn't resist. It was as though his body had been paralyzed, and all he could feel was the cold liquid burning its way down his throat and into his core.
James shook his head, trying to shake off the memory. It had felt so real, almost as if… as if it had happened. But that was impossible. Right?
"James?" Ofelia's voice broke through his thoughts, her tone laced with concern.
He looked at her, realizing she was watching him closely, her emerald eyes filled with guilt. He sighed, running a hand through his hair. "Feli… why didn't you tell me any of this? If it was that serious, I deserved to know."
"I… I thought it was over," she said, her voice trembling. "You woke up, and you seemed fine. I didn't want to scare you—or make you think I couldn't handle things."
James sighed again, softer this time. He placed a hand on her shoulder, his touch gentle. "I'm not mad. But Feli, I need to know these things. I can't—" He stopped, his voice faltering as the memory of the nightmare crept back. "I can't shake the feeling that something… happened while I was out."
Hegor cleared his throat, his booming voice cutting through the tension. "Whatever happened, lad, you're alive now. That's what matters. Your girl here did everything she could to save you. Hell, she stayed up all night watching over you. Give her some credit."
James glanced back at Ofelia, her face a mix of shame and relief. He softened, his frustration melting away. "Thank you," he said sincerely. "For everything. I wouldn't be here without you."
She looked up, her cheeks flushed, and nodded silently.
Hegor clapped James on the shoulder again, his grin returning. "Well, you're tougher than you look, I'll give you that. Just don't scare us like that again, aye? I came here expecting to hear bad news. Seeing you up and about is a damn miracle."
James managed a small smile. "I'll do my best."
Hegor gave them a final nod before stepping back. "I'll let you get to your dinner. Just wanted to check in. Take care, both of you."
James glanced at Hegor just as the captain was about to turn away. "Wait a second, Hegor," he called out. "Before you go… do you know anything about the housing market in the village? We've been staying at the inn, but I've been thinking—maybe it's time to find a place of our own."
Hegor paused, scratching his chin thoughtfully. "Housing, eh? Good idea. Staying at the inn can drain your purse faster than you think. There are a few options in the village—depends on what you're looking for and how much you've got to spend."
"What kind of options?" James pressed.
"Well, there's the smaller cottages near the southern gate—simple, but cheap. A lot of travelers and merchants who stay here long-term rent those out. If you're looking for something more permanent, though, you might want to talk to the city clerk. They manage property sales and rentals. You'd probably need to show proof of income if you're buying, but renting's pretty straightforward."
James nodded, storing the information away. "Thanks. That's helpful."
Hegor grinned, clapping him on the shoulder again. "Anytime, lad. Just don't forget to check the walls before you settle on a place. Some of the older houses have thinner walls than this inn. Wouldn't want to give your neighbors a show, eh?" He winked, his laughter booming as he walked out.
James groaned while glancing at Marlin, who was smiling mischievously in the background. His cheeks heated as Ofelia buried her face in her hands. "Why does he keep bringing that up to everyone?" he muttered.
After Hegor was gone, they settled into a table near the hearth, the day's events catching up with them. As James leaned back in his chair, he turned to Ofelia, his expression serious. "Alright, Feli. Now that we're sitting down—besides the whole deadly illness thing—is there anything else I need to know?"
Ofelia hesitated, her fingers fidgeting with the edge of the table. "There's… one more thing," she said softly, her voice barely audible over the hum of the inn. "Yesterday, I… I paid for four nights at the inn. And I gave ten gold coins to the alchemist for the treatment."
James froze, staring at her as her words sank in. "You… you paid ten gold coins?" he repeated, his voice sharp with disbelief.
She flinched slightly, her gaze dropping to her lap. "I'm sorry," she murmured. "The alchemist said the potions were expensive, and I didn't know what else to do. You were so sick, and I thought… I thought it was worth it."
James exhaled slowly, pinching the bridge of his nose. "Ten gold coins…" he muttered under his breath. "That's—" He stopped himself, realizing the strain in her voice. Taking a deep breath, he forced himself to think rationally.
"Okay," he said, his tone softer. "It's a lot, but… it makes sense. If it saved my life and got rid of the fever in a single night, it's probably worth that price. I just… didn't realize how close I was to dying."
Ofelia looked up at him, her expression conflicted. "I know it's a lot of money, and I shouldn't have spent so much without asking you. But I couldn't risk losing you."
James leaned forward, resting a hand on hers. "You did the right thing, Feli. You didn't just save my life—you made sure I could actually get back on my feet. I'm not mad; I'm just… surprised. And grateful."
Her lips curved into a small, relieved smile. "Thank you," she said softly.
He sat back, rubbing the back of his neck. "Alright, well, we've got three nights paid for, so at least we don't have to rush into anything. And now we know how much things like that cost in case it ever happens again." He sighed. "Ten gold… That's nearly one-sixth of what we earned from the auction."
"But we can make it back," Ofelia said, her voice gaining a bit of confidence. "With your skill and the auctions… we'll recover it. Right ?"
James smiled at her, appreciating her optimism. "You're right. We'll figure it out."
They shared a quiet moment of reflection. Despite the unexpected expense and the close call with his health, James couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude—for his recovery, for Ofelia's care, and for the path they were forging together.