First Step in the new World

They continued down the street, the sounds of the bustling market growing louder as they approached a pair of shops standing side by side. One had a sign depicting a shining sword, while the other displayed a sturdy shield.

"Here we are," Hegor announced with a grin. "Welcome to the Redan and Mira Emporium—where the arguments are as fierce as the merchandise."

James couldn't help but smile as they approached the shops, curious to see what lay inside and how this unusual couple conducted their business.

The clang of metal and the murmur of voices filled the air as they stepped into the shared shops. The place was bustling with activity—apprentices rushing back and forth, carrying stacks of polished armor or weapons. Despite the commotion, there was a sense of organization and purpose.

Ofelia followed closely behind James and Hegor, her steps tentative and her gaze fixed downward. She flinched slightly at the clang of metal and the rush of apprentices, her hands instinctively gripping the fabric of her sleeves. Despite her unease, she stayed near James, her presence quiet and unobtrusive.

Hegor led James and Ofelia into the courtyard, raising his hand in greeting. "Redan! Mira! I've brought a new customer for you. Treat him well—he's under my care. And I believe you still have some of the items from the bandits I brought in."

A burly man with a thick beard emerged from the armor shop, wiping his hands on a leather apron. He gave Hegor a nod, then sized up James with a discerning gaze.

"Well, who do we have here?" Redan rumbled, his deep voice filled with curiosity. "This greenhorn looks fresh off the road, Hegor."

Before Hegor could reply, a slender woman with sharp eyes and dark hair stepped out of the weapon shop. Mira, with a smirk on her lips, gave Redan a playful shove. "Oh, don't scare him off, Redan. We need more customers, not fewer. I say a good weapon is what he needs. "Eyeing the bronze sword and iron dagger at his waist. 

Redan huffed, turning to Mira. "And what good is a weapon without proper armor to back it up? Look at him, he doesn't even have gauntlets on!"

James watched their exchange, amused. It was clear that this kind of banter was common between the two. He glanced at Hegor, who chuckled, rolling his eyes.

"See what I mean?" Hegor said with a grin. "They've been at it for years. But enough of that—did you finish appraising the bandits' gear?"

Mira nodded, gesturing towards a table where a collection of weapons and armor lay. "We've checked everything. Most of it is standard—bronze and iron weapons, some leather armor. Nothing special, except for this sword."

She held up a steel sword, slightly chipped but still gleaming. "This one's good quality. Whoever made it had some real skill."

James stepped forward, recognizing the sword as the one he had taken from the third bandits he defeated. 

"It's a decent blade," Mira said, her tone shifting to a more serious note. "But it won't be enough if you plan to fight monsters from the labyrinth with it."

James frowned, glancing between Mira and Hegor. "Why not? Isn't it a good weapon?"

Redan stepped in, his expression turning grave. "That's what you need to understand, lad. Regular weapons, even well-made ones like this, can't harm the monsters in the labyrinth. Only weapons created by a Magic Blacksmith can deal damage to them."

James raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Magic Blacksmith? So, it's about the forging technique?"

Mira shook her head. "No, it's not about forging in the traditional sense. Magic Blacksmiths don't use hammers or anvils like regular smiths. Instead, they have a unique skill that transforms minerals and materials gathered from the labyrinth. They channel their mana into the materials, activating the skill that shapes the item. But there's a catch—if the skill fails, part of the materials are destroyed."

James looked taken aback. "So, it's a form of magical crafting? And there's a chance it won't work every time?"

"Exactly," Mira confirmed with a nod. "The materials from the labyrinth have special properties that resonate with the Magic Blacksmith's skill. When the process succeeds, the item is imbued with power, making it capable of harming labyrinth monsters. But if the skill fails, you lose some of those precious materials—and they're not easy to come by."

Redan chimed in, his voice firm. "That's why it's crucial to have the right gear when you face the labyrinth. Without weapons forged by a Magic Blacksmith, you're just swinging a stick at a wall."

James absorbed the information, realizing just how little he understood about this world. It wasn't as simple as arming himself and charging in. There were layers of complexity, skills, and knowledge he hadn't even begun to grasp or learn existed.

"So the bandits' weapons weren't made by a Magic Blacksmith?" James asked, his voice tinged with disappointment.

"No, they weren't," Redan confirmed. "These are fine for fighting regular people or animals, but they won't do you any good in the labyrinth. You'd need weapons created with the right skills to face those monsters."

Hegor watched James closely, noting his reaction. "This is why I brought you here. It's something every explorer needs to understand. You can't rely on just any weapon. You need gear made by someone with the Magic Blacksmith job."

Mira gave James a reassuring smile. "Don't be discouraged. It's normal to start with basic gear. But if you plan to go into the labyrinth, you'll want to invest in proper equipment. We can help with that when you're ready."

James nodded, absorbing the lesson. He felt both enlightened and a bit overwhelmed by the complexity of this world. "Thank you for explaining it. I wouldn't have known otherwise."

Redan grunted, clapping James on the shoulder. "You're learning fast, lad. And if you ever need proper gear, you know where to find us. We've got connections with a few Magic Blacksmiths, but their work isn't cheap. You'll need to save up."

James chuckled, the tension easing a bit. "I'll keep that in mind."

Hegor gave a satisfied nod, clearly pleased with how the visit had turned out. 

James glanced at Ofelia, who had been quietly observing everything from behind. Her posture was tense, her fingers brushing nervously against her arm. She occasionally glanced at James, her green eyes reflecting a cautious curiosity as he engaged with the shopkeepers.

"Is there anything I could use from that pile to defend myself for future?" James asked the couple.

Mira and Redan exchanged a look as they inspected the pile of weapons and armor left behind by the bandits. It was a mix of poorly maintained equipment and a few choice pieces that had seen better days.

"Well," Mira sighed, picking up the steel sword, "this one is the best of the lot. It's not crafted by a Magic Blacksmith, but it's solid and sharp enough for now. I'll need to sharpen it a bit more when I have the time, though." She handed the sword to James, who took it and gave it a few practice swings, testing the weight and balance. However, it was clear he still lacked any real skill in swordsmanship. Putting it on his hips, he gave the bronze sword from before to Mira, but kept the dagger.

Redan, on the other hand, rummaged through the pieces of armor. He pulled out a reinforced leather chest piece and held it up to James. "This should fit you well enough. It's sturdy and offers decent protection. You'll need something better eventually, but for now, this will do."

James nodded, grateful for their help. "Thank you. It's more than I could have hoped for."

As Redan began fastening the armor on James, he explained how to properly secure the straps and adjust the fit. Meanwhile, Mira moved on to select a pair of leather boots and a set of bracers. "These are still in good condition," she muttered, sliding them across the table. "Put these on—they'll give you better footing and protect your arms, although they're still a little big for you."

James fitted the boots and bracers, testing their flexibility. He felt more prepared than he had since arriving in this world. The equipment wasn't perfect, but it was a good start.

Before they could finish, James glanced over at Ofelia, who was standing quietly by his side, her eyes lowered. He turned back to Mira and Redan, his expression serious. "Can you equip Ofelia as well? Just in case."

Mira paused, her eyes narrowing slightly. "You want us to equip her? An elf slave?"

Redan let out a low grunt, clearly not pleased. "We don't usually arm slaves, James. It's not common practice, and it could draw unwanted attention. People might question why she's armed."

James held his ground, meeting their gazes firmly. "I understand, but she's with me now. I want her to be able to defend herself if it comes to that. I'd rather be safe than sorry."

Mira and Redan exchanged a reluctant glance, but Hegor stepped in with a reassuring smile. "The kid's got a point. Better to have her armed than helpless, especially after what we've seen lately."

Mira sighed, rolling her eyes. "Fine, fine. But don't say we didn't warn you." She walked over to the table and selected a small iron dagger, its blade plain but sharp. "This should be manageable for her."

Redan picked out a simple leather vest and a pair of gloves. "These aren't much, but they'll give her some basic protection. That's the best we can do with what we have here right now."

James nodded gratefully, accepting the dagger and gear from them. He turned to Ofelia, handing her the items. "Here, try putting these pieces of gear on. I want you to have something to defend yourself with. It's for your protection."

Ofelia hesitated, looking up at him with wide, uncertain eyes. "Thank you, Master… are you sure? I don't want to cause trouble" she whispered, her voice barely audible.

James gave her a small, reassuring smile. "Call me James, You don't need to call me that. And yes, I'm sure. We're in this together now. Just trust me."

Slowly, Ofelia took the dagger and strapped it to her belt. She slipped on the leather vest and gloves, her movements tentative but precise. The moment was quiet, almost solemn, as she adjusted the gear. It was clear she wasn't used to being armed, but there was a spark of determination in her eyes.

Mira and Redan watched, still skeptical but resigned. "You've got a strange way of doing things, boy," Mira remarked, crossing her arms. "But maybe that's not a bad thing for that girl."

Redan grumbled, running a hand through his beard. "You've made your choice, lad. Just be prepared for the consequences. Not everyone will look kindly on an armed elf slave."

James nodded, accepting their words of caution. "I understand. Thank you for helping, despite your reservations."

Hegor clapped his hands together, breaking the tension. "Well then, now that we're all geared up, let's settle the rest of the business." He gestured toward the remaining pile of bandit equipment. "What's left? Let's finalize the sale."

Mira quickly tallied up the items, setting aside the damaged and unusable pieces. "Most of this gear is standard and won't fetch much. We'll give you a fair price for the lot. How about 26 silver coins?"

Redan nodded in agreement. "It's a fair offer, considering the condition of some of these pieces. We can scrap or resell what's left, after good scrub that is."

James glanced at Hegor, who gave him an approving nod. "Take it. It's a very good deal."

"Agreed," James said. "We'll take the offer."

Mira handed over a small leather pouch filled with coins, and James slipped it into his own pouch, feeling a bit more confident now that he had some more money to his name.

"Well, that's that," Redan said, extending a hand. "If you need anything else, you know where to find us."

James shook his hand firmly. "Thank you, both of you. I appreciate your help."

Mira gave a small, approving smile. "Stay safe out there, James. And keep that curiosity of yours—it might just save your life one day."

Hegor laughed, slapping James on the back. "Come on, kid. Let's head back and plan our next move."

As they made their way out of the building, James couldn't help but feel a sense of accomplishment. He now had weapons, armor, a bit more money, and a growing understanding of the world around him. He knew he still had a lot to learn, but for the first time, he felt like he was making real progress.

He glanced back at Ofelia, who was now walking beside him, her hand resting on the hilt of the dagger. She looked different—more confident, despite her initial hesitation.

"You okay?" James asked quietly.

Ofelia gave a small nod, meeting his gaze. "Yes… I'm okay. Thank you, James."

He nodded in return, a small smile tugging at his lips.

With the business at the merchants concluded, the sun was beginning to dip below the horizon, casting a warm, golden glow over the town of Trudid. The streets were still lively, filled with the sounds of townsfolk going about their evening routines. James felt a bit weary from the day's activities, and he realized he still had a lingering fatigue from his ordeal with the Regalite; his muscles were somewhat sore.

Hegor clapped a hand on James's shoulder. "You've had quite the day, kid. I bet you're ready to find a place to rest those weary feet."

James gave a tired smile, nodding. "Yeah, I could definitely use a place to sleep. Do you know any good inns around here?"

Hegor grinned. "You're in luck. There's a place I know called the 'Iron Hearth Inn.' Decent beds, good food, and they don't ask too many questions. Perfect for someone new in town like you."

James glanced at Ofelia, who was walking quietly beside him. "What about Ofelia? Will they allow her inside?"

Hegor's expression softened. "It shouldn't be a problem. The innkeeper, Marlin, is an old friend of mine. As long as you pay for her stay, there won't be any issues."

James nodded, feeling a bit more reassured. "Alright, lead the way."

They made their way through the bustling streets, passing by vendors closing their stalls, with the smell of roasted meats filling the air. James's stomach growled loudly, drawing a laugh from Hegor.

"You're definitely in need of a good meal," Hegor teased. "Don't worry, the Iron Hearth serves hearty portions."

As they approached the inn, James noticed the sign above the door—a roaring fireplace carved into the wood, giving the place a welcoming feel. The sounds of laughter and conversation spilled out as they stepped inside.

The common room was warm and inviting, filled with adventurers and townsfolk sharing stories over mugs of ale. The innkeeper, a burly man with a thick beard, looked up and broke into a wide grin when he spotted Hegor.

"Hegor! You old scoundrel, it's been too long!" Marlin called out, making his way over to greet them.

Hegor gave Marlin a firm handshake. "Good to see you, Marlin. I've brought a couple of guests who need a room for the night. Think you can help us out?"

Marlin's eyes shifted to James and then to Ofelia, lingering on the elf girl for a moment before he nodded slowly. "I've only got one room left, I'm afraid," he said apologetically. "The place has been busier than usual with folks eyeing the maze lately—a lot of adventurers passing through. It's a double bed, though—should be enough space for the two of you."

James blinked, caught off guard. "Just one room?"

Marlin gave a sympathetic shrug. "Afraid so, lad. It's that or the stable, and I doubt you'd find that very comfortable."

James hesitated, glancing over at Ofelia. She looked down, clearly uncomfortable with the situation but staying silent. He felt a pang of guilt—it wasn't fair to make her sleep outside, especially after everything she'd been through.

Hegor clapped him on the back, smirking. "Looks like you'll have to share, kid. It's not ideal, but it's better than nothing."

James took a deep breath and nodded. "Alright, we'll take it. How much for the night, including dinner and breakfast? Also, do you have a bath?"

Marlin rubbed his chin, thinking. "For the room and two meals for two… let's call it four silver coins. And as for a bath—well, we don't have proper baths here, those are usually use by nobles. But I can bring you some hot water and cloths for washing."

James handed over the coins without hesitation. "Thank you, Marlin."

The innkeeper gave him a friendly smile. "You're welcome. I'll have the kitchen bring up some stew and bread for you both. And I'll send up a bucket of hot water and some cloths for washing. It's not much, but it should help you freshen up."

"That's perfect, thank you," James replied.

As Marlin left, James turned to Hegor. "Thank you for everything today, Hegor. I wouldn't have made it this far without your help."

Hegor gave him a firm handshake, a warm yet apologetic smile on his face. "You've done well, kid. I'd stick around to help you more, but duty calls. I've got to be back at the guard quarters early tomorrow morning."

James nodded, appreciating the honesty. "I understand. You've already done more than enough. I'm grateful."

Hegor chuckled, clapping James on the shoulder one last time. "Just keep your head up and stay sharp. You've got a lot of potential, kid. We'll catch up again when I get some free time. Until then, take care of yourself—and the girl, too."

"I will," James promised, glancing at Ofelia. "Goodnight, Hegor."

"Goodnight, James. And good luck," Hegor said, giving a final nod before turning and making his way back through the door frame.

James and Ofelia made their way upstairs, the noise from the common room fading as they reached the quiet hallway. He opened the door to find a small but cozy room. The bed was slightly larger than he expected, with fresh linens neatly folded on top. A simple window overlooked the town square below, where the evening light cast long shadows.

As they entered, Marlin appeared at the door with a bucket of steaming hot water and a bundle of clean cloths. "Here you go," he said with a wink. "Enjoy your stay."

James took the bucket gratefully. "Thanks, Marlin."

Once the door was closed, James turned to Ofelia, scratching the back of his head awkwardly. "I, uh… wasn't expecting us to share a room. If you'd prefer, I can sleep on the floor."

Ofelia looked up at him, surprised. "No, it's alright," she said quietly. "I'll take the floor. I'm used to it."

James frowned, shaking his head. "You don't have to do that. You should take the bed. I can manage on the floor."

But Ofelia shook her head firmly. "No, you shouldn't. You're my Master… I mean, James. I can't let you sleep on the ground. Please, take the bed."

James sighed, trying to insist. "You need it more than I do. I'm fine, really."

Her eyes filled with determination as she stood up. "No, I won't allow it. You saved me from the mines. It's not right for you to sleep on the floor. We can… we can share it. I'll stay on one side, and you stay on the other."

James was caught off guard by her insistence. He saw how serious she was, and he realized that arguing would only make her more uncomfortable. He let out a small, defeated chuckle. "Alright, if you're sure. We'll each take a side."

Ofelia gave a tiny nod, relief washing over her features. "Yes, that's fine. Thank you."

James set the bucket of hot water on the small table by the window and gestured for Ofelia. "You go first. Clean yourself up. I'll wait outside."

Ofelia's eyes widened slightly in surprise, and she gave him a grateful nod. "Yes..."

James stepped out of the room, closing the door behind him to give her some privacy. He leaned against the wall, listening to the muffled sounds of her washing up. He couldn't help but think about how different things had become in such a short time. It was overwhelming, but he knew he had made the right choice.

After a few minutes, the door opened quietly, and Ofelia stepped out. She had changed into the clothes he had bought for her earlier—simple but clean trousers and a shirt. Her blond hair, now free of dirt and grime, fell in soft waves around her shoulders. Her face was clean, revealing delicate features and bright green eyes that seemed to hold a new spark of life.

James stared for a moment, caught off guard by how pretty she looked when she was clean. He quickly cleared his throat, looking away. "You look different… pretty," he said awkwardly, but with a smile.

Ofelia blushed, lowering her gaze. "Thank you," she whispered.

James gave her a small nod, then picked up the cloth and stepped into the room to wash up himself. The hot water felt refreshing against his skin, easing some of the tension from his sore muscles. He cleaned up quickly, trying not to keep her waiting too long.

When he was done, he stepped back out into the hallway. "Alright, all set. Let's head back in."

They entered the room together, and things were turning a little awkward. 

Before either of them could say more, there was a knock at the door. Marlin stepped inside, balancing two bowls of steaming stew and a loaf of bread. "Here you go," he said with a wink. "Eat up while it's hot."

James thanked him, taking the food and setting it on the small table by the window. He handed a bowl to Ofelia, who accepted it gratefully, her eyes widening at the sight of the hearty meal.

They ate in silence for a few minutes, the only sound being the clinking of spoons against the bowls. James watched Ofelia out of the corner of his eye, noticing how she savored each bite. He realized she must have been starving.

"Is it good?" he asked gently.

Ofelia looked up, startled, and gave a small smile. "It's very good. Thank you."

James felt a wave of relief wash over him. "I'm glad. You deserve a good meal."

When they finished eating, James cleared the dishes and set them outside the door. He glanced back at the bed, then at Ofelia who was waiting. "Are you sure you're okay with this?" as he gave her permission to sit on the bed.

Ofelia nodded, Sitting on the edge of the bed, Her posture was still slightly hunched, but the edges of her tension had softened. "Thank you… for everything today," she said, her voice barely above a whisper.

He hesitated for a moment longer before nodding. "Alright. Get some rest. We've got a lot to do tomorrow."

He moved to the other side of the bed, lying down on top of the covers to give her as much space as possible. It felt awkward, but he didn't want to make her uncomfortable by leaving her alone in a strange place, or coming to close and making it awkward. Trying to kept the balance he did not move.

The room fell into silence, the only sound the crackling of the fire from downstairs. Just as James was starting to drift off to sleep, the glitching interface of his Regalite flickered across his vision:

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Err^or: User In#put Det@cted Syst!em St@bility: Warning U^pdate Rec@ommended…

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James sighed, rubbing his eyes. "Not again…"

Ofelia turned her head slightly, her voice barely a whisper. "James....? Are you alright?"

He forced a smile, despite the frustration he felt. "Yeah, I'm fine. Just… this thing is acting up again."

Ofelia nodded, her expression softening. "Thank you… for everything today."

James's smile became more genuine. "You don't have to thank me. I just did what felt right."

He turned away, staring at the ceiling as the glitching messages slowly faded from his vision. It had been a long day, and despite everything, he felt a strange sense of comfort knowing he wasn't alone anymore.

"Goodnight, Ofelia," he murmured.

"Goodnight...." she replied softly.

And with that, they both drifted off into a deep, much-needed sleep, the events of the day finally giving way to a quiet, peaceful night.