The Oni Queen's hut
James stood in the softly lit hut. Sunlight streamed through small openings in the wooden walls, where animal hides were stretched to cover the gaps. The light filtered through the hides, creating soft, golden patterns on the floor. The air was warm, with a faint scent of the outdoors lingering inside. The Queen sat on a large wooden throne as she smiled warmly at the group, her calm presence filling the room.
Emma leaned closer to Sophia, her voice barely above a whisper "Do you think she's going to send us on some kind of dangerous mission?"
Sophia gave a small shrug, her eyes never leaving the Queen "Probably. She looks calm, though. That's… a good sign, right?"
James, overhearing them, whispered "Relax. Just be respectful, and we'll be fine. This is probably just a formality."
Emma shot him a quick look, her voice still hushed "Easy for you to say. You're the one she seems interested in."
Elena glanced at James and smiled to herself, her expression warm and quiet.
Sophia stifled a giggle but quickly composed herself as the Queen's gaze flicked toward them, her warm smile unwavering "Is everything all right?" the Queen asked gently.
James cleared his throat, offering a small nod "Yes, Your Majesty. We're ready to listen."
The Queen's smile deepened as she folded her hands in her lap "Good. Let us begin."
The Queen's voice was steady, yet it carried an air of authority that demanded attention. Her calm gaze moved across the group as she spoke.
"James, Elena, Emma and Sophia, welcome," she said, her tone warm but firm "You are here today because you have become part of my tribe. In this place, our strength comes from unity, and our purpose binds us together."
James furrowed his brow, tilting his head slightly as he tried to understand her words "Part of your tribe, Your Majesty?" he asked, his voice curious but respectful.
The Queen chuckled softly, her voice carrying a warmth that eased the tension in the room. She leaned forward slightly, her emerald-green eyes sparkling with interest "Yes, James." she said, her tone calm yet firm "Your professions are what connects you to this tribe. Each member plays an important role, offering their skills to strengthen us all."
She leaned back slightly in her throne, her expression thoughtful "And when your Oni group chose to join us, you became one of us. You're not just a visitor or an outsider anymore, James. You are part of this tribe, bound by your skills, your actions, and now, your loyalty."
James felt a warmth spread through him at her words. The weight of her statement lingered in the air, settling within him as he fully realized the gravity of what it meant to be a part of her tribe. He nodded respectfully, feeling a sense of belonging he hadn't expected.
Her gaze settled on him, sharp yet inviting "So, tell me, James." she asked with curiosity "what is your profession?"
James stood a little taller, meeting her gaze with steady confidence "I'm a priest." he said simply, his voice clear and unwavering.
The Queen's smile deepened as she nodded, her eyes glimmering with understanding "Ah, a priest, you say? How fortunate" she mused, her voice carrying a sense of approval "That is a noble profession indeed. Healing others from the brink of death. Your skill is invaluable."
A knowing smile crossed the Queen's face "Our tribe has been without one for many years." she rose to her feet, her presence commanding the room "Tomorrow, Alisa will lead you, along with Emma, Sophia, and Elena, on your first hunt. You'll also be joined by two of our strongest Oni warriors. Together, you'll gather the resources we need to survive and thrive."
James bowed slightly "Thank you, Your Majesty."
The Queen waved a hand dismissively "No need for formalities, call me Regina." She turned to Alisa. "Show them to the treasury, they'll need proper weapons for the hunt."
"Of course, Regina." Alisa replied, her voice respectful and firm. She gave a slight bow to the Queen, then turned to face the group.
"Follow me." she instructed, her hand sweeping toward the door as she began to lead them out.
As they walked following Alisa, Emma couldn't help but whisper to Elena, her voice filled with awe "Did you hear that? A treasury? I didn't even know the tribe had one." Elena whispered back "I know, right?"
Sophia, walking beside them, looked just as surprised "I thought the village was struggling. How could they afford something like that?"
James, too, was caught off guard "A treasury? I didn't expect that either. I wonder what's inside."
Alisa overheard them and glanced back with a small smirk "The treasury holds more than just wealth. It's a place of great importance, filled with the tools and resources we need for our survival. You'll see soon enough."
As they left the hut, Regina sighed softly, her eyes momentarily distant. The weight of the village's struggles bore heavily on her. Perhaps this is the opportunity we need to restore hope... she thought, closing her eyes briefly before returning to her duties.
Queen's Treasury
The group arrived at the treasury, where a towering female Oni with crimson skin greeted them warmly. She clasped hands with Alisa "Welcome, newcomers. I'm Ragna. These are the weapons of our ancestors. Choose wisely."
As they stepped into the treasury, the scent of aged wood and metal filled the air. The group was met with the sight of old weapons and armor, many of which had seen better days. Shelves lined the walls, holding swords with dull blades, rusted spears, and shields with worn, cracked edges. Some of the weapons looked like they hadn't been used in years, their once-pristine surfaces marred by scratches, dents, and layers of dust.
As Alisa spoke, the group looked down at the weapons in front of them, still taking in the sight of the old, rusted collection. There was a slight awkward silence as they processed the reality that the "treasury" wasn't quite what they had imagined.
James reached for a battered sword, giving it a few experimental swings. The metal creaked in protest, and he immediately frowned "I guess... these have history," he muttered, inspecting the dull blade.
Emma turned to Alisa, an eyebrow raised "So, this is the famous treasury, huh?" She let out a soft chuckle, giving the room another look "Not exactly what I expected."
Elena, holding a worn out shield, smirked "Yeah, it's like finding hidden treasures in a junkyard."
Alisa scratched the back of her head, clearly a little embarrassed "Well... we do our best to keep them in one piece, but resources are scarce." she gave a sheepish grin "You guys might be thinking of shiny treasures, but these weapons have history. They've seen their fair share of battles."
Sophia, not looking as impressed as she had before, held up a spear with a bent shaft "Is this even usable?" she asked, inspecting it closely.
"Good question." Alisa said, shrugging slightly "Some of them are more symbolic than practical. But there are still plenty to choose from."
James eyed an old wooden staff in the corner of the room, its worn out wooden surface full of scratch marks almost calling to him. As if answering the unspoken question, he spoke up "I think... I'll go with this one."
"That thing?" Emma asked, incredulous "It looks like it's been through a war."
Ragna frowned, crossing her arms "Are you sure? That staff is ancient and in terrible condition."
Even Emma and Sophia hesitated "James, are you sure about this?" Emma asked "It looks like it'll fall apart."
James nodded confidently "I'm sure, this staff has a history, it's perfect."
James picked it up, feeling its weight in his hands "Sometimes, the most worn out tools have the most stories." he said with a small grin "Besides, I'm a priest."
The rest of the group exchanged glances, and even Alisa and Ragna couldn't help but smile at his choice "Well, if you're sure." Ragna said with a shrug "You've got a good eye."
They all continued looking through the weapons, trying to decide on what would best suit their skills, while Alisa stood back, scratching her head in embarrassment at the less-than-glamorous "treasury" she showed them.
As his fingers touched the old staff, a faint glow emanated from it, and a system notification appeared before his eyes:
[System Notification]
You have discovered the Ancient Staff.
James's eyes widened in awe thinking to himself "Yes, this is the one." he said firmly.
Elena, Emma, and Sophia each picked their weapons carefully, their expressions serious as they evaluated their choices.
Elena stood proudly with a giant sword, its blade almost as tall as she was. She ran her fingers along its edge, feeling the weight in her hands "This is perfect." she said with a grin "It'll definitely be useful out there."
Emma gripped a massive axe, its head wide and intimidating. She swung it a few times, testing its balance "It's heavier than I thought." she said with a small laugh "But I think I can handle it."
Sophia looked at the giant spiked club she had chosen. It was thick and heavy, with sharp spikes protruding from its surface. She smiled with satisfaction "This should be interesting," she said, twirling it once in her hands. "It'll get the job done."
After they had all made their selections, Alisa turned to the group "Remember, these weapons have been here for a long time. They may not be in perfect condition, but they'll do the job if you know how to use them."
The group nodded, their confidence growing with every passing moment.
"Thank you, Ragna." Elena said, giving a respectful bow toward the Oni who had been guiding them.
Emma smiled and added "We really appreciate it. You've been a big help."
Sophia gave a nod, showing her thanks as well "We'll make sure these weapons are put to good use."
James stepped forward, looking up at her "Thank you, Ragna." he said sincerely "These will help us a lot." His voice was soft but earnest, showing his gratitude.
Ragna, who had been silently observing them, smiled warmly "It's my pleasure." she said, bowing her head "May these weapons serve you well on your hunt."
With their new weapons in hand, the group made their way out of the treasury, ready for what lay ahead.
The Oni Tribe - Entrance
As the group approached the two archers, Kaida and Yuna greeted Alisa first with a nod and a smile.
"Alisa." Kaida said, her voice filled with respect "You made it. Are they ready for the hunt?"
Yuna added with a soft chuckle "I hope they're ready for what's ahead. The forest doesn't make it easy."
Alisa gave a small grin, glancing at the group "They'll manage. They're tougher than they look."
As the group stepped forward, James, Elena, Emma, and Sophia exchanged quick glances before greeting the two archers.
James gave a respectful nod to Kaida and Yuna, his voice calm but confident "Hello, Kaida, Yuna. We're ready for whatever this forest throws at us."
Elena, her grip firm on the hilt of her sword, smiled at the archers "I've heard a lot about the Jade Forest. Looking forward to seeing it for myself."
Emma, with her axe resting easily on her shoulder, added with a grin "I hope this hunt is as challenging as it sounds. Let's make it interesting."
Sophia, her eyes scanning the forest ahead, gave a friendly wave "It's good to meet you both. We're excited to join you on the hunt."
Kaida chuckled softly, her eyes glinting with amusement "You all look like you've got the spirit for it. The forest can be unforgiving, but with your weapons, you'll do just fine."
Yuna smiled warmly at them "Good to meet you all. Let's hope the forest doesn't make things too difficult. We'll be keeping a close eye on you."
Alisa gave them a confident glance, nodding "Okay, let's get going."
With that, Kaida and Yuna stepped forward, leading the group into the dense Jade Forest, their steps sure as they guided the new hunters deeper into the wilderness. James nodded to himself, as he gripped tightly on his weapon as the group followed them into the Jade forest.
Jade Forest
As they walked deeper into the dense Jade Forest, James adjusted his grip on his weapon, feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness.
Elena, walking beside him, gave him a playful nudge "You sure you're ready for this, James?" she asked with a teasing smile "That staff doesn't look like it's just for show."
James laughed softly, glancing at his old staff "Yeah." he said, his voice confident "It's more than it looks."
Emma, walking a little ahead, turned around with a grin "Well, I'm just hoping I don't end up swinging this axe at something that's too big for me to handle," she said, adjusting the giant axe on her back "If it gets any heavier, I might just trip over it!"
Sophia, who had been quietly inspecting her spiked club, joined in with a smirk "Just make sure you don't hit us with that thing, Emma." she teased "We don't want to be your first casualty."
As Kaida and Yuna the two archers turned their attention toward James, Elena, Emma, and Sophia, sizing them up with an appraising look.
Kaida's gaze lingered on James for a moment before she smiled, her tone warm yet laced with a quiet challenge "So you're the priest." she said, her voice steady "I'm curious to see how that staff of yours holds up out here."
James grinned nodding his head, adjusting his grip on the staff "Don't worry, it's not just for show."
Yuna, walking slightly ahead, looked back and smirked "Careful, you might not get the chance to joke around if the forest decides to surprise us."
Kaida chuckled, nodding in agreement "She's right. The Jade Forest doesn't take kindly to those who aren't serious."
The group laughed, the tension of the hunt easing as they joked amongst themselves. Even Alisa gave a small smile "Just stay alert." her voice steady, bringing their attention back to the task at hand "We're getting close."
James nodded, ready "We're ready."
The Jade Forest was full of life rustling leaves, the calls of distant birds, and the occasional snap of a branch as they walked through the dense trees. The air was thick with the scent of earth and moss. The group moved quietly, eyes scanning the underbrush as they made their way deeper into the forest.
Alisa raised her hand, signaling the group to stop. Through the trees, they spotted a huge wild boar grazing peacefully, completely unaware of the danger creeping closer.
"Now." Alisa whispered, her voice firm "Strike together."
Emma's grin spread across her face as she tightened her grip on her axe "Got it."
Sophia, her eyes sharp, held her spiked club steady "Let's be quick."
Elena nodded, sword ready in her hands "We're ready."
James gripped his staff, as he prepared for the battle.
Emma and Sophia moved swiftly, splitting to flank the massive boar. The beast, easily the size of a small horse, let out a guttural snort, its dark eyes gleaming with primal rage. It charged toward Emma, its tusks gleaming under the filtered forest light.
Emma ducked, narrowly avoiding the sharp tusks as the boar barreled past her. With a roar, she swung her axe into its side, leaving a deep gash in its thick hide. Blood poured from the wound, staining the forest ground, but the beast was far from defeated. It twisted, faster than Emma anticipated, and slammed its massive head into her side. She cried out as she was thrown to the ground, clutching her ribs in pain.
"Emma!" Sophia yelled, rushing in she lifted her spiked club and swung it with all her might making the weapon crashing into the boar's shoulder. The impact staggered the beast, but it lashed out with a sudden kick from its powerful hind legs, catching Sophia square in the thigh. She stumbled back with a gasp, her leg buckling beneath her.
James, standing a few paces back, gritted his teeth as he watched his companions stagger. Clutching his staff, he pointed in the direction of his teammates when magic energy started to course through him as he began to say magic words. Golden light began to glow at the tip of his staff.
"Hold still!" he called out. His voice carried a calm authority, cutting through the chaos of the battle. With a quick motion, he extended his staff forward towards Emma first and then Sophia second. A pulse of warm, golden energy enveloped her, healing the bruised muscles and easing the pain in her ribs. Her breathing steadied, and she grabbed her axe, rolling back to her feet.
Sophia, still grimacing from the blow to her leg, felt the same golden light wash over her. The sharp ache dulled, and she steadied herself, gripping her club tightly.
"I've got you both." James said, his voice calm but firm "Now finish it."
The boar, its side slick with blood and its movements more sluggish now, turned toward Elena. She stood composed as her sword glinting in the sunlight, her sharp eyes tracking every movement of the beast.
"Elena, now!" Emma shouted, bracing herself.
Elena darted forward, her movements fluid and precise. The boar lunged at her, its tusks aimed to gore, but she sidestepped, spinning to its exposed side. With a powerful thrust, she drove her sword deep into the beast's chest, piercing its heart with precision. The boar let out one final, guttural cry before collapsing to the ground, its massive body heaving one last breath before going still.
The forest fell silent, save for the heavy breathing of the group. Blood pooled beneath the fallen boar, soaking into the earth, but the danger was over.
James stepped forward, planting his staff firmly into the dirt as he surveyed his team "Everyone, gather up. I'm not done yet."
Emma and Sophia approached, both still bearing the signs of the fight despite James's earlier intervention. Elena joined them, wiping her blade clean but wincing as she noticed a scrape on her forearm.
James raised his staff, the golden light blooming once more at its tip "This will take care of the rest." he said, closing his eyes as he murmured a soft incantation. The healing energy radiated outward in a gentle wave, wrapping around the group. The aches and pains melted away, bruises faded, and cuts sealed themselves as if they had never existed.
"Much better," Emma said, flexing her side experimentally. She gave James a grateful nod "Thanks, James. Couldn't have finished it without you."
"Same here." Sophia added, grinning as she tested her leg "I thought that thing broke my thigh for a second."
James smiled faintly, leaning on his staff "That's what I'm here for. Just… try not to get thrown around next time, yeah?"
Elena sheathed her sword, her expression calm but tinged with relief "We're lucky you were with us, James. That could have gone a lot worse."
"Team effort." he said simply.
The group stood still for a moment, catching their breath. Alisa nodded in approval "Well done. You're getting the hang of this."
Emma wiped sweat from her forehead, a wide grin on her face "That was amazing and the boar is huge."
Sophia laughed quietly, her eyes glowing with excitement "We make a good team."
James looked at his staff, feeling proud of their success "We did it."
Alisa smiled, a sense of satisfaction in her expression "This is just the start. Let's get this boar back to the tribe."
As the boar prepared to be carried back, a system notification appeared for the group: Congratulations! You have reached Level 1.
James opened his status window, revealing a new skill: Harmony of Flesh. Alisa cheered, amazed by their teamwork, even the Kaida and Yuna were impressed.
As the group prepared to leave, Kaida and Yuna, the two archers, stepped forward to carry the massive boar. They each grabbed a leg and lifted the heavy creature with practiced ease and began to track back the way to the village.
The Oni Tribe - Entrance
As the group made their way back to the tribe, Kaida and Yuna carried the massive boar between them. The rest of the team followed closely, their steps heavy but their spirits high after the successful hunt.
When they reached the edge of the tribe, the sight of the group with their massive catch caused a stir. People began to gather, murmuring excitedly as they noticed the size of the huge boar. Children ran ahead to spread the news, their laughter ringing through the air.
By the time the team reached the entrance of the tribe, a crowd had formed. Oni women of the tribe cheered loudly, clapping their hands and raising their voices in celebration.
"Look at the size of it!" one Oni tribal member exclaimed, pointing at the giant boar.
"That will feed us for days!" another said with a grin.
The hunters placed the boar on the ground, its massive body drawing even more attention. The villagers marveled at the catch, some reaching out to touch the thick hide or inspect the tusks.
The Queen emerged from her hut, her emerald-green eyes bright with approval as she surveyed the scene "Well done," she said, her voice carrying over the crowd "You've done more than bring back food, you've brought hope to the tribe."
James, standing near the boar, felt a flush of pride at her words. Elena, Emma, and Sophia exchanged grins, their exhaustion forgotten in the glow of the tribe's excitement.
The Queen raised her hand, signaling for quiet "Tonight, we celebrate this victory with a feast. The cooks will prepare the boar, and everyone will eat their fill!"
Cheers erupted from the villagers, their joy filling the air. Children ran around the group, their eyes wide with curiosity as they looked at the hunters and the prey they had brought back.
As the crowd began to disperse to prepare for the feast, Alisa turned to James and the others "You've made a strong impression today." she said with a rare smile "Enjoy the moment. You've earned it."
James glanced at the others, their shared sense of accomplishment unspoken but deeply felt. For the first time, he truly felt like a part of the tribe.
As the excitement of the celebration began to settle, the Queen approached James, her emerald-green eyes filled with warmth and approval. She placed a gentle hand on his shoulder, drawing his attention from the lively crowd around them.
"James." she began, her voice soft yet commanding "You and your team have done well today."
James tilted his head slightly, curiosity flickering across his face "Thank you, Regina?"
The Queen smiled, her expression kind but regal "We've prepared something special for you all, a bath. It's at the back of the mountain, where the water is warm and soothing. After such a hard day, it's only fitting that you rest and recover."
James's eyes widened in pleasant surprise "A bath? That sounds... amazing."
The Queen chuckled softly, clearly amused by his reaction "It will be ready for you soon. One of the maids will come to your hut to escort you there when it's time."
Elena, overhearing the exchange, couldn't help but chime in with a grin "A proper bath sounds like heaven after all that fighting."
Emma nodded eagerly "I'm not arguing. I'll happily soak until I forget the weight of this axe."
Sophia smirked, resting her spiked club on her shoulder "Guess we earned some luxury after taking down that beast."
The Queen laughed gently, her gaze sweeping over the group "Enjoy it. You've made a strong impression today, and this is just a small token of thanks from the tribe."
James gave her a respectful nod, gratitude clear in his voice "Thank you again, Regina. We'll be ready when the maid comes."
The Queen smiled once more before turning back towards the tribal members, leaving James and the group to share a quiet moment of anticipation for the well deserved rest to come.
The Celebration -Night
The tribe came alive with joy and celebration as the tribe gathered around a massive bonfire in the center of the clearing. The flames crackled and roared, sending sparks flying into the night sky. Warm light danced across the smiling faces of the Oni tribal members, their excitement filling the air like a heartbeat.
The Onis formed circles around the fire, their laughter blending with the lively sound of drums and flutes. Some danced with wild energy, their movements free and full of life, while others clapped their hands in rhythm or swayed to the beat.
Nearby, the children ran around, chasing each other and laughing as they played. A few of the braver ones ventured closer to the massive boar the hunting team had brought back, pointing excitedly at the huge boar with it intimidating aura. The animal was now cleaned and prepared and being inspected by the cooks.
The cooks worked quickly and skillfully, setting up large wooden tables filled with ingredients and tools. They chopped vegetables, seasoned meat, and stirred pots over smaller fires, the scent of roasting food drifting through the air and making everyone's mouths water. The preparation was amazing, every dish crafted with care, as if meant for royalty.
The tribal members shared stories of past hunts and adventures, their voices rising above the music. Some passed around cups of a sweet, fermented drink, until the feast was ready.
The atmosphere was warm and welcoming, a reminder of the strength and unity of the Oni tribe. Everyone, from the youngest child to the oldest elder, joined in the celebration, their shared joy lighting up the night as much as the roaring bonfire.
The Queen sat beside James, her laughter echoing through the night "You've done well today, James." she said, raising a wooden goblet.
"Thank you, Regina." James replied, a genuine smile on his face.
As the festivities started to settle down, Regina leaned closer "I've arranged a smaller gathering back at my hut. You should join us."
James hesitated "Can I bring Elena, Emma, and Sophia?"
Regina's smile grew warmer as she looked at James. "They're already invited," she said, her voice calm but inviting. Her emerald-green eyes glimmered with a hint of amusement as she spoke.
As the celebration came to an end, Regina returned to her hut as James soon followed.