Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

"Eyes ahead. " Aldric barked, slamming his wooden sword against his opponent, staggering her. "You already know where your sword is. Between your fingers." Flicking his wrist, he slipped the wooden 'blade' under his pupil's wrist. "Ideally, that is."

"Sorry." She apologized, sucking in a quick breath. Sweat dripped from both of their foreheads. "It's hard to aim if I don't watch it."

"It'll get easier." Aldric lowered his sword arm. "Keep practicing, and it'll soon feel like an extension of your arm. You don't watch your hand when you throw a fist, right?"

His pupil's eyes lit up. "Ah, right!"

"Go take a break, drink some water." Sighing, the older man surveyed the room. Teens and young adults littered the sparring circles, wood striking wood and if he was lucky, padded armor. "Send Sybil over, she looks like she's having way too much fun over there."

"Heh. I will. Thank you, sir!"

His pupil scampered off, leaving Aldric a moment of respite himself. So hot in here… He griped, rubbing his shirt on his damp face. I'm not even wearing armor. Who's bright idea was it to put the training halls so close to the blacksmithing area?

"Sir?" Sybil stood in front of him, sword already drawn into a ready stance. "Clara said you wanted to spar me?"

"It's not exactly a want." Aldric  readied his blade. Sybil was one of his best students. It wasn't often he sparred a student that left him bruised. "I'm a teacher. I can tell when someone is playing, instead of learning."

"I wasn't playing, I was winning! " Despite her eagerness, Sybil still waited for Aldric to strike first. 

"As a cat 'wins' against a mouse." Aldric chuckled. He faked a step forward, noting with satisfaction how Sybil braced herself instead of flinched. 

"Are you a dog, then? Come to eat the cat?"

"I wouldn't say so." Only then did Aldric swing his sword, an easily-defended opening move. Sybil deflected, her eyes narrowing as the exchange of blows began. "More like a bird."

"Cats eat birds." Sybil attempted to catch Aldric's elbow, but he dodged and countered.

"Not ravens." Wood smacked against smoothed wood, louder and louder as their blows sped up. "Raven's tug the cat's tail." With a swift jerk, he tapped Sybil's shoulder. 

"You can hit me harder than that! " Sybil backed up, positioning herself for round two. 

"He's showing off." A new voice joined them. "It's harder to land a hit while you lower the power used to swing the sword." 

Aldric turned his head to address his friend. "I'm teaching. " He said, a wry smile betraying his pride. "What's up, Dec?"

Decima, the head of the Adventurer's Guild, smirked back. "Bold of you to show your back while in the middle of a fight."

Aldric rolled his eyes. "I can hear her sneaking behind me, you know." He listened as Sybil's footsteps faltered. 

"Not that it wasn't a good idea." Aldric looked back at Sybil. "The execution was just a bit flawed. Next time focus solely on the attack– not also on eavesdropping."

Sybil nodded. Her eyes scanned his body, searching for weak points. 

Aldric turned back to Decima. "Anyways, what–"

White pin-prick stars swirled in his vision, a sudden jolting pain racing from the back of his head through his spine, hitting every nociceptor on the way down. His stomach jerked as vertigo hit him, and it took every muscle in his body to not fall to his knees as he staggered. The flesh of his fingers turned white as they gripped the hilt of his sword. Even as his vision blurred and tilted, sound replaced with a high-pitched ring, his hand knew to let go of the sword meant death. 

After a few seconds of Aldric wholly focused on staying upright, the ringing in his ears faded, replaced with Decima's laughter. 

"She got you good, Ricky!"

"Sir?" Sybil looked up at him with wide eyes. "Are you ok?" 

"..." Aldric blinked. "...Ow." He said in disbelief. "Was that you, Sybil?"

His pupil nodded. "Am I in trouble?"

"Trouble? Of course not." Decima grinned. "That was a good move, kid."

Aldric gingerly felt the back of his head, wincing as his fingers grazed an already-forming bump. "Shit, Sybil. That was a solid hit. Nicely done."

"Thank you!" Reassured, Sybil's whole face lit up in pride. "I did what you said! Focus on attacking as soon as your guard drops."

"Mmhm." Aldric really wanted to sit down, but his stubbornness kept him standing. "Surprised my advice worked?" He chuckled. 

"A little." Sybil admitted. 

"I'd say we should upgrade you to a metal sword, but I'm not so sure." Decima swung an arm around Aldric, jostling the already-nauseous man. "Can't have you lopping off the head of my favourite swordsman."

"If my guard's dropped, I deserve it." Aldric tossed his sword to the ground with a sigh. "I yield."

Sybil's hands leapt up to her mouth. Aldric hadn't thought her eyes could get any wider, but they did. "I win? I WIN!"

"..." Aldric groaned quietly as her hooting got the room's attention. 

"What hurts more, your head or your pride?" Decima whispered in his ear. 

"Shut up." Aldric murmured back, both aching. 

Class was dismissed shortly after that, Aldric congratulating them all on their training but especially praising Sybil for her success. As much as Aldric hated getting whacked in the head by a student– he was pleased with her progression. Sometimes the cat does get the raven. He mused, heading into the private change room. 

Decima followed him in, watching as he immediately collapsed on the nearest wooden bench. "Been a while since you've gotten a hit like that, huh?"

"Yeah." Aldric sighed. "It's all your fault. You knew what you were doing, distracting me."

"It's hardly my fault that you get distracted by me." His old friend winked at him. "A proper teacher would have paused the match."

"You didn't hire a proper teacher though, did you?" Aldric slowly stripped off his shirt, revealing rows of scars. "You hired a seasoned adventurer who knows that battles don't just 'pause'."

"And I did that intentionally." Decima said smoothly. 

"Hmph. Intentionally getting me off the field, maybe." Aldric ran a hand through his wet hair. It felt like he had already taken a shower, though the dry floors told otherwise. 

"Hey, you gotta face it eventually, Rick. We're old now. Leave the adventuring to the younger folk. It's our job to lead and train them."

"I know, I know…" Aldric stood. "I just get restless, you know that."

"One blow to the head nearly took you out." Decima scoffed. "Going back out there will just end with another grave."

"Oh screw off, it wasn't that bad–"

"I could feel you resting all your weight on me, Aldric. Don't machismo me."

"..." Aldric avoided his friend's serious eyes. "Get out of here, I'm gonna shower."

"A dismissal and an invitation all in one sentence…"

"Out, or I'm telling the whole Guild that its leader is secretly a massive sleaz. "

"Only for you." Decima cooed, but to their credit, they did leave. "Come to my office once you're dry. I do actually have something to discuss with you."

Aldric slipped into Decima's office, immediately heading to the mini-fridge. 

"Most people knock." Decima said from their desk.

"Ah, sorry." Aldric politely knocked on the mini-fridge door, before opening it and helping himself to a strawberry-flavoured sparkling water. He grinned as Decima tossed a wadded-up paper ball at him.


"Cheeky bastard. Come sit down." They sighed good-naturedly. 

"Mhm. right, So, what's up?" Aldric took a sip from his nice cold drink. "Did you finally approve my request for a raise?"

"I've already told you, we can't pay you in food. I think that's illegal."

"Well, I'm running out of room for all the coins."


"Have you heard of the concept of a bank? "

"Yeah. and I ain't giving them one cent."

"Anyways. Let's get back on track."


Only a bit of banter? Is something seriously up? Aldric wondered as Decima organized some papers on their desk. 

"So, we've received a request from Mistria. I'm sure you've heard of the town? It's not far from here, down on the coast."



"Uh…yeah. Decent cheese from there, if I remember. Didn't they also have a flood or something recently?"

"Earthquake." Decima corrected him. "A pretty big one. It's done some serious damage to the town and surrounding area. They've sent in a request for aid."


"Poor them. Payment or no?"


"Payment."


"Well, that's a no brainer. Put up a flyer in the lobby and I'm sure someone short on coins will pick it up." Aldric shrugged. 

"That's the thing. There are variables at play that make this a yes brainer." Decima's eyes glimmered. 

"Magic." Aldric guessed, knowing Decima's specialty. Whenever there was something magic-related, Decima had to have some fingers in the pot. 

"Bingo. That earthquake…I'm not sure it was entirely natural. And, regardless, it's stirred things up. There's reports of magical mists and monsters in the area. They've got an old mine down there, so…"


"Monster heaven." Aldric mused. "So this isn't any newbie task. Is the Baron aware of the danger?"


"The Baron here in the Capital. Right now his daughter, Lady Adeline, runs the town. Based on her letter, she is a very capable leader and has extensive plans on repairing the town– but, she didn't mention the monsters. Given we are an adventuring guild, to overlook that…I'm assuming she doesn't know. While there's legends, modern Mistria isn't known for its magic…prowess."

"So they don't understand what they could possibly be sitting on top of." 

"But you and I do. Old pockets of ground have spilled open, with ancient magic…this is a massive opportunity, Aldric! Who knows what can be discovered. The legends of Mistria whisper of dragons. "

"Very exciting. So, are you going yourself?" Aldric said in a not-excited voice. Magic is all well and good, but I prefer a sharp blade to mana any day of the week. 

"There's a part of the letter I haven't fully explained." Decima gave him a strange look, causing Aldric's skin to crawl. "The request for aid wasn't for a team of builders, miners, nothing like that– they simply don't have the funds for it. They only want one person. 'A capable adventuer'."

"One! That's optimistic."

"They put in compelling incentives. This chosen of the Adventurer's Guild gets a quite large plot of farmland. It's practically the same size as the town itself. Not to mention cash and item rewards as the Town Rank increases."


"Farmland." Aldric tilted his head. "Property in general isn't a horrible payment, but given the earthquake I doubt the land is worth much currently." 

"Once Lady's Adeline's plans come into fruition…I think it has the potential to make millions. The town just needs a lil TLC first." 

"Well, good luck finding a volunteer." Aldric sipped more of his drink. "Not sure how much overlap there is between magic, monster-slaying, and farming."

"Actually, I've already picked someone out." 

"Poor sod." Aldric chuckled. "They agreed?" 

"Not sure yet." Decima leaned towards Aldric, their green eyes glinting. "Do you?"

"...huh?"

"Do you agree to go?"

Aldric looked blankly at his friend, convinced he was mishearing things. "You care to repeat that, O great and wise Guild leader?"

"Aldric, my oldest, dearest friend. I come to you with a humble request, most befitting of a man of your experience and position–"

"Cut the crap. You want ME to go be a farmer for this busted town?"

"Yes. In fact, it's…less a request and more of a direct order." Decima had the gall to give Aldric an apologetic look. "You leave next week."

"You can't be serious!" Aldric stood, setting down his drink with enough force to splash droplets of water across Mistria's letter. "Me? I don't farm, I don't fix up buildings or bridges or whatever– I kill things with my sword. That's it."

"A new path has opened up for you, Aldric." The calmness of the Guild Leader's voice made Aldric want to throw things. "This isn't a matter of discussion. You either go to Mistria, or you're out of the Guild."

"You son of a–" Aldric grit his teeth together, fighting back a whole slew of unsavoury words. His headache, persistent since the sparring lesson, ached worse. He hated the thought of working on a farm with his whole being, but the thought of leaving the Guild…he just couldn't do it. With a long, heavy sigh, he accepted his sentence. ".......How long? How long will I be stuck out in the boonies?" 

Decima smiled. "As long as it takes."

"I hate this."

"I know. But, you wanted to get back out on the field."

"Not literal fields! Sure, I'll go kill monsters, but do I have to farm?"

"Yes. Think of it as a sort of cover– we don't want to worry anyone by having someone blatantly searching the land for monsters and magic. Nor do we want to attract unwanted attention…"

"You owe me. You owe me fucking big time." 

"I do." Decima nodded. "But I think in the end, you'll be thanking me."

Chapter Text

Bird calls and the soft buzz of insects stirred through the long grass. Overhead the sun hung high in the sky, it’s bright rays cloaking the afternoon in a thick warm haze. Had Aldric been in a thoughtful mood, he might have reflected on how green the air tasted out in the country, compared to the busy, dusty air of the Capital. He might stop and watch the ripples in a pond as a spring breeze disturbed its stillness. The rolling fields outside of Mistria were beautiful and endless.

Aldric however was not in a thoughtful mood. Aldric had been squinting and scowling for so long his forehead was beginning to ache. With each step forward he cursed the fresh air around him. 

Fucking farmland. We need a capable adventurer to do FARMING. Yeah. Cuz that’s what the adventurer guild is known for, our FARMERS.

He seethed, but he had been seething for several hours at this point so it wasn’t as seethful as it could have been. The heat was getting to him. Ticklish sweat gathered under his tied-back hair then trailed down his neck. Aldric hadn’t packed much, but the things he did bring seemed intent on pushing through his backpack and jabbing sweetly between each rib. 

On some level he knew that this wasn’t so bad. In his younger days he had traveled far and wide, in worse conditions and with heavier bags. It was just the fact that his destination this time was…well, it was out in the middle of nowhere, and Decima had told him that half of the villagers had already skipped town. 

Bet there’s not even 10 people living there. Aldric grumped, rubbing a calloused hand across his wet forehead. Magic, of all places why would magic take root here? I know Decima loves their stories, but honestly…they’re going to be disappointed when I come back empty-handed. 

“Oh. A river.” Aldric muttered. “Shit, look at the state of that stonework…what, did you used to be a bridge?” He patted a busted stone column. “Earthquake took a bite outta you. I noticed some upturned rock and earth along the road…” He mused, wondering for the first time if anyone had been injured by the quake. Lady Adeline’s letter wasn’t a request for medical aid, but that didn’t mean no one wasn’t hurt…

…who the hell is that?

The stranger and Aldric caught each other’s eyes at nearly the same time. Aldric scanned the man as he approached, noticing his traveler’s grab and friendly smile. A glint of gold sparkled in the man’s blue hair.

Earrings? A touch of wealth. Hm. 

Aldric watched as the man came forward, easily leaping from broken stone to stone of the once-bridge. Once he was on Aldric’s side, Aldric elected to take a couple steps forward himself.

The stranger was the first to speak. “Didn’t expect to see anyone else out this way. The roads have been a real mess since the earthquake.”

“I noticed.” Aldric nodded. 

“I’m Balor.” The man, Balor, continued. “A traveling merchant. Pleased to meet you.” 

“Aldric.” They shook hands briefly. “A…well. Definitely a traveler.”

Balor laughed at that, an easy laugh that probably got him more tips at his stand. “Let me guess, you’re here at Lady Adeline’s request? She mentioned someone had taken her up on her offer.”

Taken up…hah. Funny way of saying my boss forced me. Aldric’s expression slipped, but he smoothly returned to a neutral, pleasant smile. It was such a subtle change that most people wouldn’t catch it, but the intelligent glitter in Balor’s eye made Aldric suspect that the merchant saw right through him. “Uh, yeah.” Lady Adeline’s letter sat crumpled in one of his various pockets. “I’m here to…help. Work for a bit of free land.”

“It’s more than a bit, I’d say.” Balor brushed some hair behind his ear, glancing in a specific direction, one that Aldric assumed that his new ‘home’ laid. “I’ve seen the area! It’s a lovely spot, quite close to town. I’ll walk with you the rest of the way.”

Aldric blinked at the lack of a question mark in Balor’s last sentence. Oh, will you now? Alright. I guess.

He followed Balor, watching which stones the man jumped on and following his footsteps.

“You’re light on your feet, for such a big guy.” Balor looked him up and down, impressed. 

Aldric shrugged. “They didn’t send someone wet behind the ears, if you’re worried about that. The Guild has strict training, jumps like these are…” He trailed off at Balor’s smirk. “…I mean, thank you. Khm. ”

“You’re most welcome.” Balor kept that annoying, knowing smirk on his face as he led Aldric to the farmland. 

Aldric decided to ignore the merchant’s expression, looking around at the scenery instead. It was so…big. Far cry from the crowded Capital streets he had grown accustomed to in his ‘retirement’. 

“So, what do you plan on growing first?” Balor asked him as they headed South. 

Aldric didn’t have a real answer for that. I’ve never gardened before in my life. Bullshit however…I bullshit all the time. “It really depends. I’ll have to actually look at the land, the condition of it…and talk to some local farmers, see what crops thrive in Mistria’s soils.”

“Oh, you’ll want to talk with Hayden and Celine, then. And Holt.”

These names mean nothing to me. Aldric nodded, about to ask for clarification when a white-haired man came into view.

“…” ‘White’ wasn’t descriptive enough. The sun, sinking into the evening now, illuminated his pearly locks. His hair was pink as well as white, as if the tips of his locks were dipped in tulip petals. It framed his face, just about falling into his striking eyes. His outfit was similarly dazzling, with white and embroidered gold edges. 

He was, for lack of a better word, pretty. A very pretty man. A very pretty, clearly rich man.

Aldric felt both intimated and drawn in. 

“Coming?” Balor looked up at him from the bottom of worn earthen steps. 

Aldric just nodded, hastily catching up. “Just…having a look at the field.” He couldn’t tell you the colour of one thing in front of him save for that white-haired man. 

“Lord Eiland!” Balor called, striding forward. “Look who I found out at the edge of the forest!”

Lord. Of course. This must be Lady Adeline’s brother.

Eiland gave Aldric a bright smile. “Aldric, I presume! Welcome, welcome! I’m Eiland, it’s wonderful to meet you.”

Decima told them my name?? “Uh, hi.” Aldric cleared his throat and tried to not stare too hard at the Lord. Younger than me? It’s hard to tell. The sheer amount of positivity radiating from the man made Aldric feel uncomfortable with his own discomfort. He ducked his head respectably, a well-practiced gesture. “Sorry. I mean, it’s an honour, Lord Eiland.”

“Ah— I appreciate it, but you don’t need to defer to me as such. I’m only the Baron’s son, and it’s my sister who’s the leader of this town.”

Aldric looked up, noting that Eiland was looking a bit flustered. “Of course.” He straightened, awaiting orders. 

“You’re in good hands, Aldric.” Balor patted him on the shoulder. “I’m off to the Inn. It’s been a long day and I need a hot meal. I’ll see you around!”

Aldric nodded, not trusting his tongue to stay civil. Don’t touch me. You’re so friendly…they’re both so friendly! They must really be desperate.

I am so not the right person to be doing this. Aldric stifled a groan as he looked at the farmhouse, his farmhouse. A large pile of bedding was sitting outside, which he was moderately curious about. The previous owner’s? This land doesn't look like it’s been touched in years. 

“So what do you think? Nice isn’t it? You’re right outside of town, great soil for farming…”

I’m supposed to be excited. The guild sent someone who wants to farm. They totally didn’t send in a bloody teacher so he could sneak around and discover magic, yeah. Ughh.

Eiland’s eager face helped motivate him at least— he didn’t want to see what such a pretty face looked like when disappointed. 

“And look at this house!” Eiland continued, not letting Aldric get a word in edgewise. “Four stout walls with rich history.”

It’s a house. What’s the history, termites? 

“Let’s go inside, shall we?” Before Aldric could respond, Eiland pushed open the door.

“Ah—“ Eiland stopped dead in his tracks, but Aldric was still able to see inside the house.

It was a single room, with furniture strewn about. It looked like someone had started dusting, then decided that this nightstand would look better over there, oh but you can’t move that without also rotating the bed frame— it was a mess. A dusty disheveled mess.

The frazzled woman standing in the middle of the room could be no one other than Adeline. Dressed in the same rich clothes as her brother, Adeline’s hair was long and thick and a brilliant pink. She was beautiful as well— did it run in the family, or was that simply the effect of endless wealth? 

“Just a minute!” Adeline said, and Aldric was pushed out of the house. By which pretty sibling he wasn’t sure, but it didn’t matter. 

I’m going to be living in a single room shack with random bits of furniture and my blankets are on the grass getting full of bugs. Aldric dropped his bag, rubbing the bridge of his nose. Why is Decima making me do this? What did I ever do to them? Balor mentioned an Inn, maybe I can take what cash I brought with me and…

“It, err, appears we’re not quite ready for you.”

Eiland’s hesitant voice shook Aldric from his musing. He wasn’t sure how to respond to that. ‘No shit, Sherlock’ didn’t seem like an appropriate thing to say to a Lord.

“But not to worry!” Eiland continued as Aldric looked at him. “I’m sure she’ll only need a minute.”

“…of course, Lord.” Aldric nodded, returning to his thoughts. I’m growing soft, aren’t I? All this time living in the guild with my cushy room set up just how I like it…back in the day Dec and I slept in way worse conditions! We were really roughing it, back then…I got a roof over my head, I shouldn’t complain so much. He picked his bag back up.

Adeline ducked out of the room, grabbing the bundle of bedding before rushing back inside. There was a very determined look on her face. Aldric wondered why they didn’t just pay someone else to do this. Maybe everyone else did leave. Maybe it’s just those two and Balor…ah, but Balor said three other names, didn’t he? So that makes…six. Aldric sighed. No, that can't be possible. It's a town, not a hovel. 

There was an awkward silence as they waited. Aldric listened to the sound of furniture being dragged around and tried to imagine what actually the Lady was doing in there. His mental image wasn’t encouraging.

“You must be Aldric!” Adeline burst from the door again, visibly panting. “I’m Adeline. Thank you so much for answering my request! My brother and I are so excited to have a real adventurer here to help the town.”

Groan. Help the town…yep. That’s me.

“I hope you like your new farm!” Adeline continued. “It has a lot of potential, don’t you think? Why don’t you come inside?”

Is it a costume here to ask several questions and then not give them time to reply? Aldric followed her inside, once again entering his new home…

“Welcome to your new home!”

It was like they had stepped into a whole different building. Austin looked around at the nearly organized furniture, the swept floor. 

“Thank you, Lady Adeline.” Aldric ducked his head towards her. He felt he should say something else, something about how the Guild thanks her hospitality or looks forward to their collaboration, but a day’s worth of walking had left him drained. His shoulders slumped as he sat down his bag for a second time. “Looks cozy.” He said in a softer voice, more to himself than either of the royalty. I guess I can see myself living here.

“I’m glad you think so.” Eiland said, and Aldric could hear the warmth in his tone without even looking at him.

“I thought you might be hungry when you got here.” Adeline stepped in front of him, holding a steaming bowl. “So, I stopped by the Inn and picked up a bowl of their famous vegetable soup!”

Which fucking pocket did this come from? Slightly bewildered, Aldric took the soup. Decima is right. There is magic here. Magic that makes rooms clean and soup appear out of nowhere.

The soup smelled heavenly. Aldric unconsciously smacked his lips. “Thank you very much.”

“My pleasure.” Adeline smiled at him, the same cheery smile that Eiland wore, the same smile that made Aldric feel bad for not wanting to be there. Imagine if I did enjoy farming and all this stuff. This would probably be pretty amazing.

“Well, I’m sure you’re worn out from your long day. We won’t keep you up.” Eiland said from the doorway.

“Welcome to Mistria, Aldric.” Adeline joined her brother. “We’re so glad to have you! Let’s meet up tomorrow so we can start discussing our plans for the town restoration.”

Yay. Let’s.

And then the dazzling siblings were gone and Aldric was left alone in his new house. He ate his soup quietly, his mind a whirl of thoughts. They’re so happy. They’re so eager to welcome me.

They’re so desperate it’s terrifying. What exactly happened to this town during the earthquake? What are they expecting ME to do?

…

This soup is pretty good though, all things considered.

Chapter Text

I have no food. 

Aldric's stomach growled as he poked despondent at his empty soup bowl from last night. Nothing but the stale travel rations I brought with me. I swear, they come fresh off the rack already rock-hard. 

The morning sun streamed through his windows. Outside sat a whole bundle of problems– an overgrown farm, a town full of stranger's expectations. Inside his problems were smaller, like having no decent breakfast. Aldric missed the Guild Breakfast Buffet. The inside of his house was stuffy, and all his huffing and sighing wasn't helping, so at the very least, he decided to let in some fresh air. 

Chewing on a stick that was supposed to resemble meat, Aldric opened his door. He blinked, furrowing his gaze as the sun pranced its merry way directly into his eyeballs. 

It feels like I'm a million miles away from everyone else. Aldric thought as he gazed across lively fields– his fields. He saw butterflies, birds, stumps and rocks…and had no clue where to begin. The only tools he brought with him were weapons. I can try digging with a soup bowl? That's what farmer's do, they dig…in the dirt. Right?

As Aldric contemplated which would work best, his bowl or his spoon, footsteps caught his trained ear. He turned, greeted with the sight of a blonde woman.

"Ah, hello!" She had a sweet smile. "You must be Aldric. I'm Celine, it's so nice to meet you! I live in the cottage north of here."

'The', not 'a'? This town's population really is dismal. And why does everyone know my name already? Did they have a meeting? 

He realized he should probably say something. "Hi. Uh, nice to meet you as well." He nodded. 

"I'm so excited that we'll be neighbours! In fact–" Celine started rummaging in her bag. I brought you a little housewarming- um, fieldwarming present…"

Oh, that's nice of you. Aldric tilted his head. He watched as Celine produced a rusted hoe from her cute bag.

"Here is a hoe, you'll need it to till your fields!" She said the obvious, but it was with such genuine enthusiasm that Aldric didn't feel spoken down too. 

"Thank you." Aldric took the tool, feeling its uneven weight in his hands. It would make a poor weapon, but a hell of a lot better digging tool then what I've got. "This is really useful."

"You're welcome!" Celine beamed. "I love gardening myself, so I had this extra one laying around. If you want a shovel however, they're available at my family's General Store."

"Oh wait, you're Celine!" Aldric blurted suddenly, remembering. "Balor told me about you!"

"He- he did?" Celine jumped a little. "Ah, what did he say?"

"That uhh, that you would help me with farming, I think." Aldric looked down at the hoe and nodded. "Thanks again."

"That's not all!" Celine pulled out a few pink bags. "I brought you some tulip seeds as well. The General Store has a wide collection of seeds, so be sure to stop by."

How much of this is friendly, and how much of this is an advertisement? Aldric wondered, looking down at the bag of seeds in his hand. I thought these people were recovering from an earthquake. What good are flowers? 

As if Celine couldn't read his mind, she winked at him. "I hope you'll consider growing lots of flowers!"

"..." Aldric froze, torn between being honest or not. He looked down at this kind new neighbour of his. "I don't have much experience with flowers." He admitted. "But, I can definitely try." 

"Oh, I'm glad to hear that! You know, Mistria has a rich horticultural history–"

"NEIGHHHHHH"

Both Aldric and Celine turned as the rumble of hooves drew near. On top the horse was its strong rider. Aldric's keen eye was so busy washing over the man's muscles and scars, he nearly missed the introduction.

"Morning neighbour! The name's Hayden, I run Sweetwater farm to the west. You don't gotta tell me your name, Aldric, you're already the talk of the town!"

They DID have a meeting. I wish I had the chance to introduce myself…talk of the town? They're so, so desperate… Alrdic forced a bright smile. He was about to speak, but Celine beat him to it.

"Hayden!" She scolded. "You almost galloped straight into poor Aldric!"

Oh, right, Hayden! Another that Balor mentioned. Aldric looked down at himself. He was as scarred and almost as ripped as Hayden– he wasn't scared by the horse. Still though, there was something charming about the smaller woman standing up for him. His smile became real.

"Ah, don't mind my horse. He just likes meeting new folks as much as I do!" Hayden let out a big belly laugh. Aldric would swear some startled birds flew off. 

Everyone here is so positive. Aldric thought back to the Capital, a city full of people who didn't give a shit about him. Is it something in the water? 

The horse with no name leaned forward and sniffed at Aldric's hand. He abruptly remembered his 'breakfast' of stale jerky. "Ah, no no." He cooed to the horse, putting the meat away. I don't know if horses can eat meat or not, but I do NOT want to find out. Aldric fought a shudder of disgust.

He looked back up to reply to Hayden, then stuttered as he saw the man's face. 

"A farmer after my own heart." Hayden said, his black eyes soft and suddenly staring deep into Aldric.

"!" Aldric stiffened, his eyes suddenly anywhere else but on Hayden's handsome mug. What does that mean??

"Here, I brought you a little something!" Hayden went on like that didn't happen, handing Aldric a rusty watering can. "You'll need this to water your crops everyday, if you want them to grow big and strong."

That's…that's good advice. Maybe they weren't expecting a fully-fledged farmer after all. Ok! I can work with this.   

Even more was handed to Aldric. He was running out of pockets and hands. 

"And here are three bags of turnip seeds! Turnips are good raw, and they're even better cooked!"

"Oh, I know." Aldric took the bags, shoving the watering can under an armpit. "I love turnips, they're…" He trailed off as his stomach vocalized how it also would love a turnip, or ANY sort of breakfast. 

"Have you eaten breakfast yet?" Celine asked, her eyes wide in concern. Aldric could see himself in them. "Come with me, I'll get you some food."

"Good idea. And don't be a stranger now! Come by my place anytime. I'd love to introduce you to the rest of my animals." Hayden waved as he turned his horse around. 

Aldric's head spun, not used to such boundless kindness. "Uh, sure, yeah, bye, um–"

"My cottage is up ahead, but for really good food you want to go to the Inn." Celine looked back, waiting for Aldric to follow. 

He was standing still, trying to remember how much coin he had on him. Don't take too much cash, Decima had told him. You'll mess up the economy there. Remember, you're just a normal adventurer, with a normal paycheque. "Uh, yeah, about how much does a meal cost?"

"There's free soup daily. Don't worry," Celine assured him. "And you can see the town! A lot of people spend time at the Inn."

"..." Aldric looked to the side. "Ah, yeah. Just give me a second, I need to put away all my new tools." He ducked back into the house, unceremoniously dumping all his gifts over the bed. I feel…I feel happy. Why do I feel happy?? 

Images floating through his head, the faces of these new people…all of them so kind and welcoming. It’s hard to stay grumpy when everyone is just…just so nice! For a ridiculous moment, Aldric looked down at his tools and seeds and actually felt eager to use them.

No, no, don’t be silly…I need to be methodical about this. Farm just enough to dissuade suspicion. The sooner I get my hands on some magic, the sooner I can sleep in my own bed again.

He hurried out, matching Celine’s smile with a warm one of his own. But...the magic can wait a little longer. Breakfast time!

Chapter Text

“…And here’s my cottage!” Celine gestured after a couple minutes of walking. Its trim was bright and green and it was draped in flowers. It practically screamed ‘springtime’.

“I can tell.” Aldric said without thinking. “So many growing things…it’s beautiful.” He had only seen such displays at festivals or flower shops. Having a house like this year-round…how quaint. I like it.

“Ah— Thank you.” Celine pushed back some blonde hair, studying a nearby cloud. “I moved in somewhat recently so it’s not much, really…”

“Do you plan on making your garden bigger, then?” Aldric looked at her little rows of growing things, not quite blooming yet. An excellent idea came to him. “If you need more land, I have more than I know what to do with.” 

“Oh, Aldric, I couldn’t!” Celine protested. “That’s yours, I couldn’t just…”

“Please. Like I said, I’m not really great with flowers so…”

“No, really, it wouldn’t feel right.” Celine shook her head, her cheeks flushed with embarrassment. “I appreciate it, I really do. I’d love to come help you with your own garden though!”

Ah. Alright. “The offer stands as long as I do.” Aldric sighed softly in defeat.

“…oh?” Celine looked at him, pausing for a moment before she continued the tour. “Ah, and over there is Balor’s wagon. He brings all sorts of things from all over! I bet he has things you can’t even find in the Capital. You said you met him before, right?”

“Ran into him yesterday.” Aldric nodded. “He seems friendly.” 

“He is. Every-everyone here is kind.” The way Celine faltered before saying that piqued Aldric’s interest.

Not everyone. Of course not everyone. Though, it’s hard to believe, heh.

Aldric realized Celine was waiting for him to respond. “How many people live here?”

“Oh…we had more, but so many left because of the earthquake…” Celine sighed. “I think we’re around thirty people now.”

Thirty. I’ve run classes with more people than that. I’ve rubbed shoulders with more people than that walking a block down the Capital. He must have let some shock show on his face, because Celine hastily added on to her answer.

“Oh, but, they’re all really good people! We have a strong community here, the town feels so lively even with our fewer numbers.”

“Wow. Sorry, I don’t mean to be uh, rude, but wow . I thought Decima was exaggerating…”

“Decima?”

“Oh, uh, the Guild Leader. They…briefed me on the town.”

“It’s true, we’re not as full as we used to be…but with your help, I’m sure we’ll bounce back in no time!”

“Heh. That’s optimistic….” Aldric could see the town, its stone walls gleaming in the morning light. He also saw a blue-haired man leaning against it, watching them.

“Oh, there’s Balor.” Aldric nodded towards the man, alerting Celine to his presence. 

“Oh! Good morning Balor.” Celine called, hurrying over to say hi. “I was just bringing Aldric to the Inn for some breakfast.”

“Good idea. Mind if I join you?” Balor caught Aldric’s eye, the question directed at him.

“Not at all.” Aldric looked back at Balor’s unguarded wagon. “You must have quite the lock on that thing.” He remarked.

“What, my wagon? Nah. Just an ordinary one.” Balor shrugged.

“But…what about thieves? They could cart your whole livelihood away.”

“No one here would do such a thing!” Celine protested. 

“She’s right. This place isn’t like the Capital, Aldric.” Balor gave him a knowing look. “Theft doesn’t happen here, because of how tight-knit the community is. So if anything does go missing now…”

“Ah. I’m the only suspect.” Aldric tilted his head. 

“Yep. But that won’t be an issue, right?”

“Hah.” Aldric huffed. “Stealing has no appeal to me.”

“Mm.” Balor’s eyes flickered. “I suppose the town has no choice but to trust you regardless. Anyways! To breakfast.”

The Inn was close to the town entrance. Balor opened the door, holding it open for Celine and Aldric.

“Hi dad!” Celine smiled at a heavyset, well-mustached man sitting at the bar. “Look who’s with me!”

“A stranger…you must be Aldric!” The man stretched out a strong hand, and Aldric responded with an equally strong shake. “I’m Holt, Celine’s dear old pop and co-owner of the General Store next door.”

“A pleasure to meet you.” It was nice to finally talk to someone older in the town. “Your daughter’s been nothing but kind to me.”

“I should hope so.” Colt laughed, gesturing to the seat next to him. “Come, sit! You’ve got to try Reina’s quiche— it makes an egg -cellent breakfast.” His face split into a goofy grin.

Aldric chuckled, sitting down next to him. “That so? As long as I can order it without bacon the bank.”

“Oho!” Holt laughed some more. “You and I are going to get on just fine, I think.”

I like this one. Holt, was it? Sounds familiar……ah! The third one Balor mentioned. But he’s not a farmer?

“And, I think you’ll find our prices agreeable.” Another older gentleman leaned against the bar. “I’m Hemlock, it’s nice to see a new face around here. Can I get you anything to drink with your quiche?”

Aldric eyed the menu behind him. “A coffee, please. Sugar, no cream.”

“Sugar, no cream. Got it! Just a moment.” Hemlock bustled off. He was replaced by the smiling face of a younger, very cute woman. 

“Hello! I’m Reina, it’s lovely to meet you! Here’s your quiche.” Reina sat down a generous slice of quiche. “Baked fresh this morning!”

“It smells amazing.” At this point Aldric was so hungry, he would start gnawing on rocks. He took a mouthful, then several more. It was difficult to eat in a dignified manner while also stuffing his face as fast as possible, but he’d like to think he pulled it off.

“Do you like it?” Reina asked, watching him eat.

“Come on, of course he does.” Hemlock sat down Aldric’s coffee. “Don’t bother the man while he’s eating. There’ll be plenty of time for chit-chat later.”

“I—“ Aldric swallowed. “It’s good, yes. Thank you.”

“I’m so happy to hear that!” Reina’s eyes lit up. “Cooking for someone new can be so daunting…you’ll have to tell me your favourite flavours—“

“Customers.” Her father, Aldric guessed, based on the familiarity and similarities, nudged her. 

“Oh—oh.” Reina shook her head. “Good morning, sleepyheads!”

Two children were coming down the stairs. The boy walked with a studious expression, while the girl was yawning.

“Did I miss it??” Another young girl burst through the doors. “Is there still quiche? The leader of the Dragonguard needs her strength!”

“Dell, manners.” Holt chided lightly. 

“Don’t worry, I’m making you all a plate! Luc, Maple, you two wash your hands?” Reina bustled around her father, the space between the bar and the kitchen pretty cramped.

“Yes!” The boy, Luc, nodded. “Oh— who are you? ”

With a jolt Aldric realized all three children were staring at him now. “Ah—“

“A stranger!” All sleepiness gone, Maple rushed towards him. “You need to pay your respects.”

My what now?? Before Aldric could ask for clarification, more voices barraged him.

“You must be the new farmer! Do you like bugs?”

“Whoa, how’d you get that big scar across your face?” 

“ Dell! ” Celine wrapped a hand around her obviously-sister’s mouth. “Don’t be rude!” 

I was wondering when someone would ask. Aldric ran his fingertips across the bridge of his nose, following a thick gash of scar tissue. “You ever try to hold back a sneeze?”

“What!” Dell squirmed out of her sister’s grip. “That’s not what happened.”

“No, really.” Aldric grinned. “I nearly blew my whole head off.”

“Nuh uh! I’m gonna hold back a sneeze and prove it.” Dell paused. “…once I need to sneeze!”

“We can get some feathers from Hayden.” Luc suggested. “That’ll make you sneeze!”

“Or pepper!” Maple tried to enter the kitchen, but was blocked by Reina holding three plates of food.

“Outttt. Come on you three, settle down and eat your breakfast. Don’t pester Mr. Aldric.” Reina herded them to a table. The kids sat down and ate, but Aldric could see them whispering and shooting glances at him. 

“Seems you have some fans. Well, it’s nice they’re not asking me about my scar anymore.” Balor leaned on the bar next to Aldric, pulling down his shirt collar to reveal a large scar on his chest. “Scary what ‘sneezing’ can do to a man, huh?”

“…” Aldric looked back down at his food, away from Balor’s glimmering eyes. He’s trying to read me. Know more about me. Does he suspect I’m not what I seem? Does he recognize me? He is a traveling merchant, he’s been to the Capital…no, don’t be paranoid. He’s just nosy. Probably.

Aldric shrugged. “I could tell them what actually happened but they’re a bit young, I think.”

“Agreed.” Holt said. “Don’t worry, they’ll get distracted and move onto another game soon enough.”

“Where would you like to go after this?” Celine had gotten herself a tea. The sweet scent filled the space between them. “I’d love to show you around, if you’d like.”

“Don’t forget, Adeline wants to talk with him.” Balor reminded her. “He probably should report to her first.”

Right…for my restoration job… Aldric drained his coffee, then shoveled down the rest of his breakfast. “Let’s see…” He murmured, pulling out a coin pouch. He mentally counted out his total, then added a tip. “Here you go.”

“Ah, you’re a bit extra.” Hemlock tried to hand the tip back. “No tips here, friend. The price on the board is all you need to pay.”

“…” Not wanting to argue (and truthfully needing the cash), Aldric took it back. “Huh. Thank you.”

“No need.” Hemlock gave him a nod before returning to his work. More villagers were starting to come in. Hayden caught his eye and gave him a big wave. Next to him, a white-haired woman eyes him curiously.

Her glasses are on top of her head. Odd. Maybe they’re reading glasses?

They weren’t the only ones coming in. Aldric wasn’t sure if everyone came to the Inn for breakfast usually or word had gotten out that the stranger was there, but in the next half-hour he had shaken hands and exchanged words with what he assumed was the whole town. Could he tell you their names or occupations? Nope! Except for the doctor, who he now knew was a doctor, but also that she didn’t want to be called doctor… I’m a bit screwed there. Hah.

He was dodging questions about farming from Hayden when the doors opened again. Adeline walked through the door, as well as…

Eiland. The Lord. He’s so… The sun illuminated his back, his hair more so a halo until he stepped into the building. He was dressed just as sharply as last night. Aldric swallowed an emotion he couldn’t name. 

“Aldric! I’m so pleased you’re getting acquainted with the town.” Adeline approached him. “I’d like you to meet my Aunt! Elsie, this is—“

“ Ricky?? As I live and breathe!”

“Oh god.” Aldric froze as Elsie wrapped him in a big hug. “Aunt—“

“Look how big you’ve gotten! Goodness! You’ve put on some muscle. And your hair! I’m so glad you’ve grown it out, it looks wonderful.” Elise cooed, stroking his hair. 

The rest of the Inn has gone quiet, everyone watching in a sort of stunned silence.

“Auntie, please…” Aldric gently pushed her hand aside, feeling his cheeks warm. “It’s good to see you, but—“

“Don’t be shy, Ricky. Everyone! This here is the sweetest little boy in the Capital's north end. He used to pick flowers for me— gave me more flowers than his father, I’ll tell you that much.” She winked.

“Auntie, please, if we could not—“

“Oh, but his father was sweet in other ways~” Elsie let out a dreamy sigh. “One night he took me to his secret spot, overlooking distant cities…he called the sparkling lights below his ‘sea of stars’, and said one day we would sail our way across them…"

“I didn’t know you already had connections here!” Celine remarked to him as the buzz of conversation returned, much more animated than before (if such a thing was possible). 

“Neither did I.” Aldric groaned. Now everyone knows she had a fling with my old man...of all things, I wasn’t expecting THAT to come up here! “Unrelated question, when does the bar open?”

“Anytime.” Hemlock said helpfully. 

“Don’t be silly!” His wife swatted him. “It’s alright, Aldric. We all know how Elsie likes to exaggerate.”

“Still though, what a funny coincidence!” Holt’s wife added in. 

“I’m gonna go get some air.” Aldric stood. He weaved his way past the villagers. As he checked his side to ensure he didn’t accidentally nail a kid in the head with his elbow, he bumped into something soft.

“Ah—“

He was face-to-face with Eiland, closer than he’d ever been before. His eyes were wide and as beautiful as twin perfect pink diamonds.

He smells like strawberries and cream. I like it. Wait, what?? I’m imagining things.

“Sorry.” Aldric backed up. “I uh, I was just trying to…”

“No worries!” Eiland backed up as well. “My fault, I should have been paying attention to where I was going.”

“No, no, that’s my line.” Aldric laughed breezily.

“…and another sweet thing about him was his laugh! Oh, he’d get embarrassed so easily, my darling Terry…such a cute little laugh he’d do, trying to cover it up.” Elsie’s voice carried through the room.

Oh my god. Aldric’s throat went dry. “Nice— nice seeing you again.” He said quickly, stepping around Eiland and escaping outside before he died of embarrassment.

“Oh! That’s why everyone is here.” A dark-haired, well-built man was about to enter the door Aldric had left. “Nice to meet you, name buddy!”

“Name…Buddy?” Aldric blinked. 

“I’m Olric! You’re Aldric. Name buddies.” Olric shook Aldric’s hand with great gusto. “Welcome to Mistria!”

“Thank you. Olric…well, at least that’s one name I’ll remember.” Aldric looked behind Olric, locking eyes with a red-haired man who was scowling at him.

A frown! A rare sight. 

“Who’s your friend?”

“I can speak for myself.” The man snapped. “I’m his brother, March. And who are you supposed to be? Our hero? I’m—We’re doing just fine without your help.”

His negative attitude just seemed ridiculous in contrast with the rest of the town. Aldric had to fight back a snicker. “March. Got it.”

March just huffed, brushing past him to get inside. Olric followed, giving Aldric an apologetic shrug.

This town has so much energy. Because of the magic? Celine was right, it’s all so lively. All so…alive.

He took a deep breath, filling his lungs with the fresh country air. Oh no. I was supposed to dislike the town and its people. I was supposed to be a huge bitch about it and make Decima regret ever sending me here.

…I don’t think I can do that now. These people certainly know how to leave a good impression. 

Chapter Text

"The town can be a bit much at times, huh?" Celine had followed him out. "I wanted you to meet everyone, but not all at once!"

"Hah…don't worry. This is the kindest welcome I've gotten in…well, ever." Aldric smiled. "It might take me a bit of time to adjust to the energy level, but…I think I like it here." 

"I'm so relieved to hear that." Celine smiled. "Mist–"

"Aldric! There you are." Adeline rushed out of the Inn. 

Why is it whenever I see her, she's rushing through a door? Aldric’s lips curled in amusement. "Lady Adeline."

"Just Adeline is fine. Aldric, I'm so sorry about Elsie, I had no clue you two already knew each other."

"It was a surprise, but no harm done." Aldric scratched his neck. "I haven't seen her in decades. I'm shocked she still remembers me."

"I'm shocked your father is Sir Terrance! We hear about him sometimes." Adeline shook her head in disbelief. "The Captain of the Royal Guard's son, here in Mistria! It's an honour."

"Ah…" Aldric waved a hand, glancing away. "I'm just Aldric." Let's change the topic, please… "You said you had some restoration plans?"

That worked like a charm. Adeline went off about her plans, and Aldric's father was quickly forgotten in favour of stockpiles and bridges. The main thing she focused on was a request board. Aldric took his first request, which was…

"'Meet everyone.' Heh, done. Can I turn it in now?" He chuckled. 

"Not yet. You haven't met everyone." Adeline tsked. "Visit the Bathhouse, and Sweetwater Farm. Then you should be good." 

"Gotcha." Aldric tucked the note into his pocket. "Is the tour still going?"

"Of course!" Celine perked up. "But, we're doing things in order. Next stop is the General Store."

So Holt sells seeds. That's why Balor said to meet him. Look at these fresh veggies…

…A broken mill, oh I bet that's on Adeline's list…

…Ah, a clinic. Looks actually pretty decent for such a small town…

…A bathhouse. I did notice the lack of a shower in my farmhouse…so, everyone cleans themselves here? 

"Before we go in," Celine paused before opening the Bathhouse door. "Are you allergic to any animals?"

"Nah, I'm all good." There's animals in the Bathhouse? Talk about country living…

"Great!" Celine opened the door. "Come on in. Hello Juniper!"

"Morning, Celine. Oh! So nice of the new face to come visit me." Juniper peered at Aldric, a self-satisfied look on her face. Aldric recognized her briefly from the inn. "Come for a bath? You could certainly do with one!" 

"Just taking the tour." Aldric twisted his head, looking up and down the place. The rare ingredients lining the shelves, the bubbling cauldron overtop of a circle of runes, the strange esoteric jewelry the woman wore… She's a magic user. Most likely. Unless she's some sort of huge fan of cosplay. His eyes narrowed at Juniper. If she's attuned to magic…will she be a friend or competition? 

Juniper narrowed her eyes back, undeterred. Her painted lips remained in a smirk, taunting him to say something. Did she know he knew? 

"Uh…" Celine had clearly picked up the sudden tense air between them. "Anyways… this is who Adeline wanted you to meet."

A wet nose pressed against Aldric's hand. "Hm? Oh! " 

A big golden dog stood before him, his tail wagging curiously. 

"Hello! It's a pleasure to meet you." Aldric cooed in a 'talking to a cute animal' voice. He held out his hand, letting the dog sniff it before he patted the dog's head. "Who's this?"

"This is Dozy, co-owner of the Bathhouse." Celine patted Dozy as well. "A very good boy."

"Indeed. A fine…familiar." Aldric's eyes slid to Juniper again, gauging her reaction. 

She had stopped smiling. 

Definitely a magic user. Aldric felt a thrill of excitement. Decima may be onto something, if a sorcerer is here. "How long have you been in town, Juniper?"

"Oh, not long." Juniper crossed her arms. "If you're looking to talk to more rooted people, Valen's family has been here since the dinosaurs."

"Valen is…" Aldric looked to Celine.

"The doctor! We were just at her place, Aldric." 

"Ahh right, right. Sorry, there's a lot of names…"

"Celine." Juniper said suddenly. "I just remembered. Terithia wants to meet you at her shack."

"Oh? For what?"

"She's uncovered an aquatic plant she needs help identifying. Best you run along, she's already waiting."

"Oh dear–" Celine looked from Juniper to Aldric, her pretty face creased with worry. "But, Aldric–"

"I can take over his tour."

"Are you sure?"

"It's fine, business is slow today." Juniper put a hand on Celine's shoulder, pushing her to the door. "You can spend more time with Aldric later."

"That's not– ah, Aldric, I'm sorry–"

"No worries Celine! I understand. We'll catch up later." He gave Celine a wave as she left. 

"..."

Aldric and Juniper looked at each other. The woman was frowning, her arms crossed once again.

“I think we’ll be more comfortable talking in my back room.” Juniper angled her head towards a door.

“Fine by me.” Aldric shrugged.

"Dozy, watch the counter."

The dog obediently trotted over to the desk.

"And then there were two." Aldric said, once they entered the back room, which appeared to be Juniper's bedroom. His arms hung loosely at his sides, but his feet were planted, unconsciously bracing for a fight. Aldric's heart thumped in his chest. Of the two he may be physically stronger, but if she had offensive magic and chose to 'deal' with him instead of reason…

"City boy." Juniper huffed, shutting the door with a sharp click. "Some strange looks you were shooting at me. Care to explain why?"

"I like your racks?"

"Try again." Juniper's scowl deepened, unamused.

"I do!" Aldric pointed at a rack full of technicolour crystals, noticing even more specimens in her room. Another bubbling cauldron made the air around them smell like lychee. "I recognize some of these– rare and powerful. Not exactly the ‘bath salts’ one would expect to find here."

"And not exactly the type of crystals a ‘simple adventurer’ would care to recognize."

They stared at each other.

Fuckin' knew it. "I won't blow your cover if you don't blow mine?" Aldric suggested with a small smile.

"...not so fast. I need to know your motivations for being in Mistria." Juniper tapped a painted nail against her arm.

"I suspect they're the same as yours." Aldric took a deep breath, steadying himself as Juniper stepped forward. 

"And just what do you presume those are?" 

Aldric took another long look around the room. The more mystical items he recognized, the more he thought of Decima. They would love this place…dunno how they'd feel about a loose sorcerer though. "Magic, obviously. The earthquake disturbed unique magic, and it's leeching to the surface."

Juniper's expression tightened. "Hm. So we do have the same reasons for being here. Are you here to stake out your territory?" 

"I won't get in your way if you don't get in mine. Finders keepers?"

"Hah! Such a bold claim from a measly newcomer.” Juniper brought a haughty hand to her chin. “You, proposing the terms to me ? Don’t make me laugh! Oh ho ho ho!”

“Hah. Yeah.” Aldric frowned, shifting his weight. Measly? I know I’ve been slacking in my training since getting hired on as a teacher but I’m sure as hell not ‘measly’! “What are your terms, then?”

“I’ll keep it very simple for you.” Juniper swept back some strands of hair that dislodged during her laughter. “You will stay out of my way. And don’t you dare think about trying to hide things from me— I will find them. Not that you’ll discover anything before me anyways.”

“Oo, scary.” Aldric rolled his eyes. “Very impressive. Explain to me why the hell I would agree to this? At least my terms were fair!”

“What choice do you have?” Juniper tilted her head. “Do you really want to mess with a sorcerer?” Her purple-pink eyes glittered, and Aldric felt a bead of sweat snake down his neck.

He swallowed some pride. “…no. Obviously not.”

“Exactly. So remember—“ Juniper stepped forward, poking Aldric in the chest with a sharp nail. “I was here first. ”

Aldric looked down at the finger, then back up at her. Actually, you know what? I’m not gonna be submissive about this. I’m dragged all the way out here to do one job, and you’re trying to say I can’t do it? Yeah right. The swallowed pride raced its way back up his throat, taking control of his tongue.

“Are you always this much of a bitch, or are you putting on a show because you’re scared of me?”

“—!” Juniper’s eyes bulged. “What did you say?”

“Didn’t hear me? I would have thought you did, given how big your head is.” 

“Think you’re funny, do you?!” Juniper’s finger went up, her hand clutching at Aldric’s collar. With a surprisingly strong yank, she jerked him up to her eye-level. “You’ve been here for one day. The townsfolk know me. They like me. Who’re they gonna believe when I tell them that you’re a Capital spy?” She hissed.

“I’m no spy!” Aldric clamped his hand over Juniper’s wrist. “I’m a bloody Guild member, and you’ll do well to remember that.” He squeezed. 

“Pulling rank? After you played down your father’s accomplishments earlier, I would have thought you better than that.” 

“How- You weren’t there for that!” 

"And yet I know about it." Juniper's face split open into a dangerous grin. "Here I was wondering if you were someone like me…yet, I can't sense any arcane energy coming from you at all. You really are just a weak, normal human! And a very stupid one, clearly. Oh ho ho ho! "

Aldric huffed, prying Juniper's fingers from his collar. "Your laugh is stupid. Do you even hear yourself? You sound like Santa Claus having an orgasm." He felt pretty good about that burn right up to the point where Juniper's eyes started to glow. 

"You know…I have been needing a guinea pig. For something even I wouldn't test on Mistria's dear, pliable people." A wind picked up, coming from where Aldric didn't know, and Juniper's hair filled the space like a spread of purple peacock feathers. Static fizzed and burned on the skin touching Juniper's hand, and Aldric hastily let go of her. 

She did not release her hold on him. In her other hand she clutched a crystal shard, its whitish sides pulsing with energy.

"Stay still, little worm. This won't hurt any more then I mean it too." 

It was likely telling of Aldric's character that the thought of begging for mercy didn't cross his mind. I can take the pain, he thought, eyes locked on the crystal. Whatever spell she's got contained in there, it won't kill me. She can't kill me, it'll blow her cover! Not to mention get her into legal trouble…a sorcerer's worst nightmare. 

He smiled. "You know, I was dreading the dull countryside. Seems I shouldn't have."

"You'll never look at me with such arrogance again." Juniper threw back her head and laughed that dreadful laugh as she stabbed the crystal into his chest. 

Aldric screamed as it entered, the crystal bubbling into soluble goo as it came in contact with his flesh. 

"AHHHHH the PAIN the AGONY oh PLEASE make it, make it…" He gasped, tears in his eyes. "Oh nooo, it hurts…hurt's so…" He wheezed, doubling over in…

"...laughter?" Juniper stood, staring incredulously as Aldric's sides (metaphorically) split in laughter. 

He clutched his stomach, laughing to the point of coughing, no longer able to keep up the facade of pain. "Oh my…ahahaha, you, wheeze, you…bahahaha, fuck, the hell did you…heeheehee…you're so, so…hahahaha! Fuck!" 

"What went wrong??" Juniper glared at what remained of her crystal, then tossed it across the room. "You should be withering in agony! Your veins should be swelling and bursting with lava, the debilitating pain racing through tissue and tendon, melting your spine as it drills towards your head!"

"You…heh…you hate me…ahahah, cough, you hate me…so much?" Aldric asked weakly, sliding down the wall as his energy sapped but the giggles uncontrollable. "I feel…hoohooho…everythings so…ehehe…funny! Funny, you're so, so funny, everythings funny and…hahah…dizzy…"

His body fell over with a thump, his vision of Juniper's room swirling into the most hilarious set of constellations he's ever seen. 

Chapter Text

"...get Valen!"

"I'm sure it's nothing serious, Celine. He just sniffed something he shouldn't have and got a bit lightheaded."

"Juniper, he's passed out! And given you lied to me about Terithia needing my help, I can't say I'm very inclined to trust you right now!"

"That was an honest mistake! Please, take a breath Celine. I've never seen you so worked up before."

"This isn't about me, this is about Aldric. Look how pale he is! I'm going to get Valen so she can check him out."

"Celine–"

"Why're you blocking the door? I don't understand. I know it was an accident, Juniper…" Celin's voice softened. "You're not in trouble. And I'm sure Valen won't think any less of you."

"That's not what…" 

"Mhm." Aldric interrupted, their conversion keeping him out of a wonderful dream. "Shush..." He rasped, his throat sore. 

"You're awake!" Celine hurried over.

Juniper followed her, her heels clacking on the hardwood floor. "See? He's fine."

"Aldric, what happened? I'd like to hear your side of the story."

"Ah…" Aldric scooted into a sitting position, smacking his dry lips. He looked at Juniper, watching her fingers flex and tighten. She's…surely she's not nervous? I guess she did screw up big time. I could get her kicked from the town. "Mm…" Aldric rubbed his face, still groggy. "I think I…smelt something?" You owe me one, sorcerer.

"Just like I said." Juniper turned triumphantly to Celine. "Some of my salts are very strong. But he's awake and just fine now."

"How do you feel?" Celine leaned close to him, placing a palm on his forehead. "She didn't have you drink a tonic, did she? I know sometimes they don't always work right."

"I feel…thirsty. But…normal besides that." Aldric sighed softly, enjoying the warmth radiating from Celine's hand. "And no, it wasn't her fault. I was just too curious for my own good."

"Alright…" Finally, Celine relaxed. "I'll go get you some water."

When she was gone, Aldric gave Juniper a pointed look.

"What??" She demanded, crossing her arms. 

"The way I see it, you owe me. I take my payment in either an apology or a thank you. Whichever you'd prefer."

"Hah!" Juniper scoffed. "After what your foul mouth said to me, you think you're getting an apology? And I don't owe you any thanks while you're saving your own skin as well as mine."

"You're impossible." Aldric shook his head, refusing to accept any blame on his part. "But whatever. Can we call a truce, at least? An agreement to stay out of each other's way?"

"You'll be staying out of my way. I swear to all that is mystical that I will use another crystal on you. One of them is bound to work eventually." Juniper threatened. 

Aldric rolled his eyes, flopping back down on the bed. Her bed , he realized. It smelled like…lavender. It was nice, and he paused, taking a moment to sniff her pillows.

"Stop that, creep!" Juniper yanked the pillow away, Aldric's head falling onto the mattress. "You're awake, so you can walk. Get your unwashed face out of my bed, now. "

"Yeah, yeah…" Aldric slid out of the bed, stretching as he came to a full stand. "No offense, but I think I'm going to avoid you."

"Likewise." Juniper sniffed, turning her head. "The last thing I need is some giggling idiot near me. Oh ho ho ho! " 

Merry Christmas. Aldric thought as he headed for the exit, not even trying to argue with her anymore. As he passed a shelf full of crystals, his eyes wandered…

She does owe me. Aldric thought, snagging a purple one and slipping it into his pocket. There. All debts paid. That wasn't so hard, was it?

This chicken…I don’t like the way she’s looking at me. There’s too much intelligence in those eyes.

Celine and Hayden were chatting, leaving Aldric and Henrietta alone to meet each other. Aldric felt incredibly awkward.

“Do you mind if I…I don’t want to tower above you.” He slowly knelt down. “You’re a very impressive chicken. It’s uh, it's a pleasure to meet you.”

Henrietta bobbed her head at him, clunking. Aldric had no clue if that was bad or good. Did she even understand what he was saying? The longer he knelt there, the more dumb he felt. Is this hazing? Let’s get the new guy to chat with a chicken, won’t that be funny.

Ah, but she looks so smart…and everyone has been so nice to me up until this point. I should humour them. “I uh…I’m very new here, so you’ll have to forgive me if I do anything wrong, I really don’t know how I’m supposed to approach this…” He slowly lifted his hand. “May I pet you? Your feathers look soft and beautiful.” With Dozy he knew to give the dog his scent, but a hen was completely different (he assumed).

Henrietta clucked, fluffing up her feathers as she side-eyes Aldric’s hand. She made no move towards him.

“Alright, no worries.” Aldric murmured as he lowered his hand. “I like when my space is respected too.”

More clunks and head-bobbing. 

“You must be a very special chicken, to have won so many awards.” Aldric glanced at the ribbons hanging on the wall. “I used to contest as well. Never won as much as you did.” He chuckled. “Most times I’d leave the ring with nothing but bruises.”

“Cluck cluck.” 

Aldric could have sworn the chicken sounded…sympathetic, just for a moment. Henrietta scooted a little closer to him.

As tempting as it was to pet the cute fluffy chicken, Aldric kept his hands to his sides. “Ah, but those were good times regardless.”

“Aldric?” Celine’s voice shook him out of his reminiscing. “Hayden’s prepared some lunch, if you’re interested.”

“Oh, yes please.” Before he stood, he nodded towards the hen. He had been polite so far, it was only right to end the conversation the same way. “Nice talking to you.”

“Cluck cluck.”

Aldric and Celine sat in the Manor gazebo, gazing out into a field of just-blooming flowers. The afternoon was late, the sun slowly sinking into the evening. After a very long day of introductions, tours, brief magical attacks, and then more tours, Aldric was more than grateful for a chance to just sit and relax. 

The company isn't bad either. Aldric thought, stealing a glance at Celine's content expression. Are we friends? I'd like to be friends. It's been a while since I've made a new one. 

"Celine…" Aldric said quietly, trying to disturb the stillness as little as possible. 

"Yes?" She turned to him, her big eyes inquisitive. 

"...thank you. Very much, for all of today. I really appreciate the extra effort you gave towards me, with the tour and everything."

"Oh…you're welcome, Aldric. I wish it could have gone smoother, but…"

"I still had a good time." Aldric assured her. "This place…" He laughed softly. "It's…not what I was expecting at all. But that's a good thing!"

"I'm glad. What were you expecting, then?" Celine looked closely at him. "Everyone being more aloof?"

"More like…I guess, more exhaustion. More rubble– not that I haven't noticed the cracks! But just…more. And…I expected you all to be miserable, frankly." Aldric paused in reflection. "But, you're not. It's amazing. I've never encountered such…positivity determined to stick around."

"That's Mistria for you! We'll never give up on our town, or people." Celine put a hand over Aldric's. "And…I hope that includes you too, Aldric."

"I think you'll be stuck with me for a good long while." Aldric grinned, feeling absurdly good about it.

"Sounds good to me." Celine smiled back.

A bell rang somewhere, a gentle thrum of noise echoing across the town.

"Eight pm already." Celine stood up, brushing off her dress. "Where does the time go! I've got to get home…walk with me?"

"Of course." Aldric stood as well. "I suppose I should get some rest…Adeline's gonna make me earn that farmhouse tomorrow." 

Celine laughed. Aldric was chuckling himself when an odd prickle ran up his spine. He turned, feeling eyes on him. Looking up, all he saw was the rustle of a curtain from one of the Manor's many rooms.

Oh? Maybe they were just closing the blinds. Whoever that was. I shouldn't assume they were looking at me…

Anyways! Time to head home. 

…

I mean, it’s not ridiculous to imagine them watching me…whoever ‘they’ are…

A pretty white-hair boy floated to the top of his mind and he quickly shut down that line of thinking. ANYWAYS. It is time to head home I am heading home now and I am not thinking about him. It. The curtains. Yes. No more thinking. 

Good night!

Chapter Text

Aldric was deep in sleep until he wasn't.

THUD. THUD. THUD.

Now Aldric was standing upright, his sword in hand as he raced towards the door. His brain being not fully awake, all he could think of was 'big noise = scary' and 'scary = stab it'. His heart thudded, sending a surge of adrenaline through his body as he ran around his house towards the source of the racket–

"Ah, good morning Aldric!" Eiland waved to him. "Sorry, I ah…I didn't mean to wake you…" The young Lord looked to the side, his cheeks pink. Looking down at himself, Aldric quickly clocked the reason why.


His boxers look innocently back up at him. Dewdrops covered his bare feet from his quick travel through the grass. He was practically naked, and he didn't even want to imagine how his unbrushed hair looked.


"One– One second!" Aldric escaped back into the house, throwing on the nearest articles of clothing. His face, he was sure, was beet-red. Oh my god I can't let him see me like this! For that matter, what is he even doing here??


Returning outside once again, fully clothed and swordless, Aldric sheepishly walked up to Eiland. "Uh…morning. Can I help you?"

"Ah yes! When I was here the other day I noticed something suspicious about this tree. I believe it's covering old stonework. As head of the Historical Society, I thought I'd investigate, but this old bark is proving to be surprisingly tough." 


"Oh?" Aldric looked at the rusty axe in Eiland's hands. "That explains the noise." He rubbed at his face, stifling a yawn. "No offense my Lord, but did this have to be done at the crack of dawn?" Can't believe he saw me practically in my birthday suit all for a suspicious tree. It's a tree. What does he even mean by stonework?


"I'm terribly sorry!" Eiland blushed again. "It's been on my mind, and I just had to investigate. How about I make you an honorary member to make amends?"

An honorary member of a historical society. Aldric huffed quietly in amusement. I guess I shouldn't be surprised. A life well-funded lets you explore any niche you'd like. Why not make a historical society all for a tiny coastline town?

"It's, ah, a generous offer my Lord–"

"Just Eiland, please."


"...Eiland. But I don't see myself deserving of such a thing. I bid you…let me earn my place as a proper member." There, that should get him off my back. History is so dull…sorry Lord Eiland. As strong as my loyalty to the Crown is, some things, like the prospect of reading dusty old textbooks, are stronger. 

Eiland's eyes lit up in a way Aldric hadn't been expecting. "Of course! It would be my pleasure. Now…" He turned back to the tree, wiping sweat from his forehead. "Whew…I think I need a moment."


"If you lend me your axe, I can take care of it." Aldric offered. “Can't be that different from swinging a sword, right?"


"Oh! In that case, you're welcome to it!" Eiland handed Aldric his worn axe.


Adlric took a moment to examine the state of the tool. Its edges were blunt and chipped, and the head of the axe had a slight wobble that suggested it was coming loose from its wooden handle. He ran his thumb over the sharp end, just double checking. "No blood." He murmured to himself. "Can't count on the blade cutting. Just need to power through the old wood."


He looked up at the tree, gripping the axe. "Let me just…"


THUD THUD THUD THUD THUD THUD.


The tree fell with a satisfying crack. Aldric finished cleaning up the stump as Eiland stepped forward.


"Incredible!" He cried, gazing up at the uncovered stone statue. "This is a statue of Caldarus, the mythological guardian of Mistria. Our ancient ancestors used to worship statues like this one. What an incredible find!"

"He's a dragon. Huh." Aldric put down the axe, wiping his sweaty hands on his pants. "Holy…poor guy got beheaded." Without thinking, he picked up the stone dragon head and carefully balanced it back into place. "There. Much more worthy of worship."


"There we are!" Eiland beamed. "Don't you just love that sense of achievement? I believe that reconnecting with Mistria's past is the key to our future."

Catchy slogan, I suppose. Though, if this past includes magic…yeah, I'm sold. Aldric nodded. 

"This has been a most productive morning! Thank you for all your help." Eiland gave Aldric a dazzling smile. "Please keep the axe, and do let me know if you stumble upon any intriguing archaeological finds yourself!"


"Yes, of course my L- Eiland. Happy to help." Aldric stretched. I'm gonna go back to sleep…


Before he headed inside, Aldric took one last look at the statue. Maybe he was crazy, but with his head intact, the statue had a dignified presence. Its stone eyes almost seemed alive…

Once Aldric woke again his second day was much like the first, with plenty of running around. Only this time he was exploring the land outside the town, and at his lonesome. Celine had to go to work.

Ohh, free berries. Aldric stopped and picked them. He walked a bit more. Ohh, free berries. And some more. Ohh, free berries…I could spend all day doing this.

The sun warmed his arms as he picked berries. How lovely this is…I mean, I’m not restoring the town or discovering magic by doing this, but…free food. 

Onwards he went.

“Are you…aha!” Taking out his sword, he carefully teased the end of it under a morel mushroom. “Beautiful! I’ve only seen drawings of you…and is that nettle over there? All this stuff just grows here…where were you when I was on the field?” He scolded a fiddlehead patch. “I mean, I guess not much grows when there’s soldiers stomping around…oh, shoo.” He brushed aside a grasshopper. “ My free goodies. Go get your own.”

A giggle made him freeze, then look up. 

Reina stood nearby, covering her mouth. “Oh— Oh, I’m sorry, I don’t mean to laugh, just…it’s…unexpected.”

“What is?” Aldric blinked at her. I’m wearing all my clothes, yeah? Didn’t forget pants? 

“You’re ah, talking. To the plants and bugs.” Reina smiled. “It’s not a bad thing of course! Just…”

Aldric could tell there was something she wanted to say, but held back due to them not knowing each other well enough. “Is it the scar?” He asked, tapping his nose. “I look too scary to be talking to plants?”

“Not scary! Just…serious.” Reina said.

“Well. I am very serious when I say the grasshopper is not welcome to my goodies. On my Queen’s honour, I shall not allow such travesty to occur.”

That got a real laugh out of Reina. Her laugh was cheery and warm, and Aldric felt happier just by hearing it. “Of course, we couldn’t have that. What are you planning to do with the morel?” She crouched down next to him.

“Eat it?” Aldric shrugged one shoulder. "It's an edible one, isn't it?"

“Oh, you need to be careful about that!” Reina’s eyes went wide. “You need to cook them thoroughly, or their toxins will make you ill.”

“…ah.” Aldric looked down at the mushroom. “Ok, I maybe don’t want that.”

“Do you cook at all?”

“My skills start and end with a boiled egg.” Aldric winced. “I’ve done some meat over a fire as well. You haven’t lived until you’ve had a kebab that is somehow half charred and half raw.” He gave her a lopsided smile.

“…Let me have the mushroom.” Reina took it from him, unamused.

“You look concerned.” Aldric tilted his head. 

“Just…promise me you won’t eat random plants you find on the ground without checking them first. Celine’s a good person to ask about it.”

“Ahh…well, sometimes I get a bit peckish and..”

“Seriously! We can’t afford you getting sick.” Reina frowned. “I can cook you whatever you want, or teach you. Just don’t poison yourself before then.”

Aldric blinked.

She actually cares about this. We’re not doing some bit, she genuinely…but she doesn’t even know me! 

“…ok.” He said, voice humbled. “Uh, yeah. I’ll be careful, promise.”

“Thank you.” Reina sighed, standing upright. “What else have you found?”

“Buncha pinkish berries.”

“Wild berries.” Reina visually relaxed. “If you get enough of them, I’ll make a pie.”

“Deal!” Aldric grinned. “Sounds like my afternoon’s booked.”

“Happy foraging.” Reina bid him goodbye, continuing on with her day. 

Weird. Decima wouldn’t have stopped me from eating the mushroom. Then again, they have healing magic…little town like this doesn’t have anything like that. 

Hm. Thinking about it, I don’t know what magic Juniper can do. All I’ve learned is that she’s not actually all that great with offensive spells. Which is very lucky for me, hah. 

Aldric shrugged and continued plundering the wildlife. 

“Big house.” Aldric looked up at an impressive, new-looking building. “Can’t be another manor, who would live in it? Or maybe it belonged to one of the villagers that left?” He mused to himself, walking past a mossy stone gryphon up to the door. 

“…” He rested fingertips on the door, then his whole palm. “…” After a few seconds, he rapped his knuckles against the door.

“Come on in!” A man’s voice inside called.

Ah! Aldric opened the door. What greeted him was not a manor, but…

“Welcome to the museum!” An older gentleman spread out his hands, revealing an impressive muscular physique despite his age. Aldric had met him before, but the name escaped him. 

“A museum…” Aldric looked around, seeing painstakingly organized but empty displays. “What, uh, happened to everything?”

“Ah. Ahem.” The man coughed, embarrassed. “Well, the museum is quite new. But, we’re working on filling it with the history of Mistria! Maybe you can help us. If you find anything old or unusual, bring it here. We offer cash rewards.” 

“I can keep an eye out.” Aldric nodded. 

“Lovely! You know, I was just about to pen you a letter, inviting you to come by. It’s so wonderful to see you take the initiative in exploring Mistria.”

“It’s a beautiful place.” Aldric kept nodding. “And the surrounding land is bigger than I thought. Based on the map I got, I still have a lot to explore.”

“Let me see the map.” The man patted an empty spot on the front desk.

“Uh, sure.” Aldric pulled it out, smoothing it down against the varnished wood. “My farm is here, I think, and I went past Hayden’s place, then up. So this place, I think.”

“The Narrows.” The man nodded, pulling out a pen and neatly jotting down notes. “My cabin is here, you must have seen it…and up here is the old mine.”

“I heard there was a mine! Can I enter it?”

“It’s sealed.” The man looked abruptly grave. “The earthquake ruined all our supply lines, minecart tracks, even the elevator. It’s simply not safe for anyone to go down right now.”

But…magic… “I’m a trained adventurer. I think I could—“

“This isn’t up for discussion, Aldric.” The man’s voice rumbled throughout the room. “As the mine foreman, I will not allow it. I wouldn’t be able to live with myself if I let you down there and you got hurt, or worse, died.”

“…” A little death never killed anyone. Aldric ducked his head in acknowledgment to the older man’s words. He knew there was no point in protesting. On some level, he empathized with the risk the man was having to gauge. Access to the mines would be a boost to Mistria’s economy, but at the risk of death…it was a difficult choice for any leader to make.

Aldric knew what choice he would have made, but it didn’t matter as he wasn’t the one in charge here.

“I understand. I’m sorry for pressing the matter.”

“Thank you for understanding.” 

“I uh, I have a question.”

“Yes?” The man raised a wary eyebrow.

“What’s uh…” Aldric scratched his neck, looking up sheepishly. “What’s your name again, sir?”

“Oh!” The man abruptly laughed. “It’s Errol.”

“Errol. Right. I need to remember that…” Aldric took out his little notebook and jotted it down. “Mine foreman and…Museum curator?”

“Why, yes.” Errol straightened his lapels. “But of course, I’m not doing this alone. The entire Historical Society is involved.” 

Ah, the Historical Society again. Makes sense. “Oh? Who’s part of that?”

“Myself, Terithia, Olric and of course our young Lord Eiland.” 

“Lord Eiland told me he was the head of the Society.”

“Indeed he is. Eiland’s extremely passionate about our history. It’s heartening to see, and to have a potential future Baron so invested in the past. Once the town is returned to its former glory, I suspect the Museum will be well-funded for a long time.” Errol continued. 

“That’s great.” Aldric nodded, eyes once again scanning the large but empty room. “So what exactly counts as a museum-worthy item?” 

“I am so glad you asked!” Errol pulled out a thick book. It hit the table with a very heavy thunk, and Aldric immediately regretted asking.

I need to remind myself that I’m not actually this well-rounded guy who reads in his spare time. Aldric thought, laying in the grass. Holy shit, love Errol, great guy, but I nearly passed out listening to him ramble on. So many fish and bugs… He shuddered, not eager about catching either. The grass was warm and the air around him hazy. Already groggy from the tedious impromptu lecture, Aldric undid his ponytail and let his eyes close…

…

Several hours later he stirred. He opened his eyes, finding himself face-to-face with a glassy distorted eye.

“Waugh??” Aldric flinched back.

“Don’t move!” Luc, now recognizable, scolded him. “There’s a rare specimen in your hair.” He put the magnifying glass to his eye again. 

“That makes me want to move more.” Aldric reached up with his hand. “Where??”

“He said don’t move.” Maple put her hands on her hips. “As Queen Maple, I order you to obey him!”

I don’t want bugs in my hairrrr. Aldric couldn’t keep the dismay off his face. “Luc…maybe you could study it… out of my hair? That might make it easier, even.”

“Hm…good idea. Dell, I need my net back please.”

“The fish keep running away!” Dell was crouched by the river, unsuccessfully net-fishing. 

“Swimming away.” Aldric said helpfully.

“The net is too small for fish anyways. I need it to capture my newest friend!”

“Alright.” Dell huffed, handing it over.

Aldric winced as the net whapped into the side of his head, sprinkling him with river water. “Did you get it?”

“Almost…his legs are tangled up in your hair.”

Aldric shuddered, closing his eyes. I’m in my room in the Guild. I’m playing Solitaire. Life is peaceful and there are zero bugs in my hair.

“There we go! Look how cool he is.” Luc held a bug, what type Aldric had no idea, up to his face. “Thanks, Aldric!”

“Uh…yeah. Sure.”

“Aww Dell, you got my net all soggy.” Luc whined. “At least it’s my old one.”

“Sorry…we need to make a real fishnet. Then the Dragonguard will never go hungry when we’re on adventures!”

A small hand tapped Aldric on the shoulder. “You have done your Queen a service. You must be rewarded.” Maple said seriously. 

“Oh, ah, it was an honour, my Queen.” Aldric ducked his head in respect. He could hear Maple giggling above him.

“I shall give you a crown most befitting the service you have provided here today!” She declared.

“Hey, Maple, that’s mine—“

“I dub thee Sir Hair-bug!”

The bug net was ceremonially placed on Aldric’s ducked head.

“…….” These kids are so cute. Aldric slowly looked up, the net sitting on him lopsided. “Thank you, my Queen. I will treasure this gift well.”

The three children were too busy cracking up over the sight of him to reply. Aldric watched the bug crawl away. At least one of us got free. Heh. 

Looking past the kids he saw a figure leaving the Museum. It turned towards him and Aldric’s chest froze.

Eiland caught his eye and smiled, waving.

There’s a fucking bug net on my head. Aldric thought as he waved back. Why did it have to be him? Why now of all times?? Sir Hair-bug is gonna melt into a puddle of embarrassed goo now if you kiddos don’t mind.

Chapter Text

Aldric sat on his lawn, writing in his journal. The sun had all but disappeared, painting the sky with fading streaks of orange. He wrote by the light of an old stone lantern. As he detailed the events of the day, his hand was stopped by sudden fluttering movement.

A white fuzzy moth danced around him.

"Oh…attracted to the light?" Aldric smiled. "Hey, hold still and I'll draw you…"

sktch sktch sktch. The night was quite save for the gentle scratch of Aldric's pencil on paper, and a faint croaking. I must have frogs in my river. Aldric thought, adding little fuzzy details to the moth's body. This is all so…peaceful…

…

Yet, I miss the noise of the Capital. This silence feels very…lonely, in a sense, very…empty. He yawned, setting down his book. The moth fluttered around him, before landing lightly on his shoulder.

"You know, the kiddos gave me a net…I could catch you." He murmured. "But what would be the point of that? I'm sure the Museum doesn't want a simple little moth like you. Ah. No offense."

The moth remained still.

"..." Aldric yawned again. "Why am I so tired? I didn't really do much, just foraged all day…is that really enough to tucker me out? Ah well. What I really need to do, Mr. Moth, is figure out how to access the mines. I found the entrance of course, but it's all boarded up. Easy enough to take down with my axe, but…well, that would be obvious. And then Errol will be mad at me, and maybe close it up with something stronger than my axe. I mean, Olric gave me a pickaxe, but…not to look a gift horse in the mouth, but all the tools I've gotten have been really shoddy. Like, I'm sooner to break the pickaxe than a rock. March sells better ones, but I don't have the budget for it right now." He rambled on, his voice growing faint as sleep pulled down his eyelids. "And he's not the one to lend me a free one…I'm not sure who put that stick up his ass…hah. Olric asked me to give him a chance…I dunno. Olric…he used to be a miner. Maybe he could help me get inside the mine?" 

Aldric stood slowly, pushing back hair that had fallen into his face. He watched the disturbed moth fly towards the lantern again. "Good night, Mr. Moth." He picked up his journal, and shuffled into his house. No sense in passing out on the grass again. Once is enough for today. 

Slowly the darkened ceiling of his room swirled into true blackness. He rested in the comfortable void, all his muscles unwinding as his breath slowed.

…

"Well met, mortal."

A deep rumbling voice called out to him. Slowly the image of a dragon statue appeared, its stone eyes somehow staring straight through Aldric.

Aldric recognized the statue of course– it was the one he had helped Eiland uncover this morning. "Huh. This is a weird dream. I didn't think the statue had left this much of an impact on me." He mused.

"....Mortal, this is not a dream. Please do not make me regret this conversation."

"What? I don't understand."

"I am Caldarus," The stone dragon declared. "The Guardian of Mistria."

"That's what Eiland said. But you're just…carved rock, aren't you?"

"Thank you for repairing my Shrine." Caldarus breezed past Aldric's question. "Ah…I have been asleep since…"

…

"...Well, I can't seem to remember, exactly. Even now, my mind is shrouded in fog."

Ok, I can't actually be talking to a dragon, right? They're the stuff of legends, fairy tales–

"Magical Essence has begun to flow again in Mistria, of that much I'm certain."

Aldric locked in on Caldarus' words. "Yes! That's what I'm looking for, the source of it all."

The dragon rumbled in acknowledgment. "I ask you to extend your assistance once more, mortal. I need you to collect this Essence and offer it at my Shrine so that I may regain my strength."

"You had me and then you lost me. The magic has to go back to the Capital…and I don't know how to gather magic directly, I'm used to handling enchanted objects… " Aldric protested.

"No matter. I hereby bestow upon you the ability to sense and collect Essence. You should find it naturally when going about your daily tasks."

"Wh-what? You can't…can you actually do such a thing?" Something akin to fear trickled down Aldric's spine. I don't use magic, I just hit things with my sword. That's all I want to do, that's all I'm good at!

"I grow tired." The statue ignored his pleas for clarification once again. "Let us speak again tomorrow at my Shrine."

"But I…I didn't ask for this!" Aldric's head spun. A dragon?? Working for a real life dragon??

"As the saying goes…if you don't want to be bound by fate to a dragon, then you shouldn't repair his shrine. Sleep now, mortal."

" Fate? Wait-" Aldric cried as his visions blurred and darkened once more. "Wait, I don't–"

"God, what a strange dream…working for a dragon? Ridiculous. That's the sort of thing a child dreams up, not a grown man who knows better…" Aldric muttered to himself as he scarfed down a breakfast of toast and crushed wild berries. "I have work to do today. Juniper put up a request for water chestnuts, and as much as I hate to see her, I do need to gain Adeline's trust. I just need to put this dream behind me…"

Despite his assertions to himself, Aldric still stopped and stared at the statue when he went outside. He dared the stone to move, to turn towards him. It didn't.

"Yeah…of course you won't move. You're just a statue." Aldric strode towards it. "Just carved stone, weathered by age, you can't–"

"Ah, greetings mortal."

Aldric jumped up, twisting his head around looking for the source of the voice. It was not helping his frayed nerves when he realized he recognized it.

"The time has come for you to begin collecting Essence." Caldarus continued smoothly. "Essence will appear in the form of small purple orbs as you go about your day. Try activities such as farming, fishing and mining. You'll be sure to find some. Visit my Shrine when you're ready to offer up your collected Essence. In exchange, I will use my restored powers to strengthen you, make life easier for you."

"I've officially lost it." Aldric said weakly. "I spent a whole day outside and it completely shattered my mind."

"...I grow tired." Caldarus said, clearly not in the mood to coddle Aldric. "Let us speak again tomorrow." 

"I…" Aldric sat down, his legs shaking. "What the hell is happening…Decima said there was magic, but they didn't warn me about this…collecting magic for a dragon …" He swallowed what little saliva was left in his dry throat. "A human able to access Essence…am I…am I a Sorcerer now? But no, that takes years and a talent you're born with, an affinity…people aren't just…gifted magical abilities willy-nilly…hah. Aha." He stood, his laugh forced. "Nonsense. I bet I won't notice a lick of magic. And I don't plan on fishing or farming and I can't mine right now. So. Best to just. Ignore this. Yes." 

He returned to his house, slamming the door with more force than he intended. He barely noticed. Pulling out his journal, he began furiously writing down everything he remembered from his dream and morning encounter. If he really was going crazy, he needed to leave some sort of record of it.

"There's a doctor…Valen…aghh but maybe that's going too far." He whispered. "I just…I just need a moment. If I think about it long enough I'll come to some sort of reasonable conclusion, surely…"

"No more thinking!" Aldric forced himself out of the house fifteen minutes later, having accomplished nothing but raised blood pressure. "What I need is to hit something with my sword. Since I can't do that…let's break some rocks on my field." He hefted up the pickaxe, stomping up to the nearest rock.

A few hits had it crumbling into gravel. Aldric waited with bated breath, but no 'small purple orbs' appeared.

"See, no Essence. Just rock." He exhaled deeply. "Everything's normal. Let's just clear a nice path…"

Rock after rock was shattered. Aldric stooped down to collect the smaller pieces. As he moved a stone, something brightly coloured caught his eye.

"...no…" He stumbled back, landing on his ass, but to his horror the purple orb floated steadily towards him. "No, please, don't–"

It touched him, then entered.

Aldric gasped as a warm buzz raced through his body. It was gone as soon as it began. The Essence was inside of him. 

"Caldarus!" He yelled, almost slamming himself against the stone statue. "What the hell have you done to me?? Take it out, I don't fuck with magic!"

The statue remained still, quiet.

"Fuck, fuck…" He staggered back, dizzy. "I…just because I put your head back on…" The thought occurred to him that if he had not put on the head, Eiland would have.

I protected Eiland. This burden is mine to carry, mine to worry about. He remains fine, safe, untouched by whatever perversion of magic this is… Aldric took a deep breath. Good. A small comfort.

He resumed clearing his field, because what else was there to do? More purple orbs floated their way into his chest. He shuddered at first, but as the hours dragged on he soon grew…almost used to them. He didn't feel different otherwise. His muscles still began to ache, until the burning grew to a point where he had to put the pickaxe down. 

"... huff …" He walked stiffly over to the statue. "Hey. Dragon. I…ate? a whole bunch of the orbs. You said something about wanting them?"

"I offer a trade." Caldarus replied. "In giving me the Essence, I grow stronger. As I strengthen, so shall you. What sort of boon would you like?"

"...what, I can just pick anything?"

"Within reason. I will not support combat, or delving into the mines, however."

Aldric sighed. "I gotta start telling people that combat is like, my thing. I lived on the battlefield for years, and then taught others how to fight for a couple more…"

"All the more reason for you to ask for a boon in another area. You were clearing rocks…I can make it so you gather more rock than you destroy."

Aldric opened his mouth, thought about it, then closed it. He started over. "Where would the extra stone come from?"

"Magic."

"Magic." Aldric repeated.

"Exactly."

"Don't mess with me! Magic isn't like some catch-all explanation."

"It is the only explanation you need. Here." 

Aldric gasped as all the Essence orbs he had collected poured out his chest, swirling around the shrine and then fading. The statue's eyes sparked purple. After a moment of breathless silence, Aldric shuddered as a strange cold feeling washed over him. "Did you…cast a spell on me?"

"A boon. Think of it as just a helpful…perk. Thank you for delivering the Essence, mortal. I wish you luck in gathering more." 

"I…sure. Yeah. Ok. This is life now. Eating orbs and then getting magic tossed upon me by a magical talking statue."

"I grow tired. We will speak again." As usual, Caldarus had no reply to Aldric's sarcasm.  

"Damn right we will!" Aldric huffed. He looked at his pickaxe, and all his back muscles twinged in complaint. "No stamina left for that. Too early to sleep…I guess I should visit the town. Check the request board." 

"Wild berries for Auntie Elsie. She makes jam…" Aldric stifled a yawn as he took down the pinned piece of paper and slipped it safely inside his journal. "Damn, I could have completed that right now, if I had the berries on me. Hell if I'm gonna walk to my farm and back again tonight."

"You talk to yourself a lot." A voice caught him off guard. 

"Uh…" Aldric turned, locking eyes with Valen. "Sorry. Habit."

"Do you normally have another person to converse with?" She asked, leaning against the empty request board. 

"Ah…" Aldric looked to the side, scratching his neck. "Sort of the opposite really, I'm used to being alone…or ignored."

"I'm sorry."

"No, no, I like that." Aldric sighed softly. "Having so many people around with a genuine interest in me is a bit…well, it'll take some getting used too."

"Hmm." The doctor hummed, nodding. "I can understand that. Next question, have you eaten anything today? Or drank water?"

"Uh, course." 

"You look exhausted. I strongly suggest you eat and drink some more right now. And if you'd like to get rid of that layer of sweat on you, Juniper's bathhouse is excellent." Velan advised. 

Juniper… "..." Aldric swallowed, looking to the side again. "Uh. Yeah. I'll go order something at the inn."

"Splendid. I was heading that way myself."

For a Wednesday, the inn was hopping. He looked around, unconsciously scanning the heads for white-pink hair before he really noticed what he was doing. Not finding the man he totally wasn't looking for, Aldric shuffled up to Celine, who was sitting at the bar.

"Hey, mind if I sit here?"

"Not at all!" Celine smiled at him, though it quickly faded as she got a good look at him. "Aldric, you look beat. Is everything ok? You're not sick, are you?"

"Eh…" Aldric shrugged, sitting down. "Valen already had a look at me. She says I just need to eat something. I spent the day clearing my field…it's looking a lot better now."

"It's good you're working, but be careful not to push yourself too far." Celine brushed some dust off his shoulder. "You need to pace yourself."

Aldric nodded. "Yeah, you're right. I just got caught up in it…"

"Looks like someone had a good day's work!" Hayden's voice carried across the room. "Aldric, I passed by your farm and saw what you did to the field– it's looking better already." He strode up, patting Aldric on the back. "Now you've got room for crops. What're you thinking of growing?"

"All of you, let the man order something." Hemlock butted in. "What'cha hungry for?"

"A beer, for starters." Aldric looked up at the menu. "Hm…mushroom rice please."

"Gotcha. Reina, you catch that?"

"Yep!" Reina called from the kitchen. "Coming right up."

Hemlock sat down an ice-cold beer in front of Aldric. "Here you are."

"Many thanks." Aldric took a decent gulp. The cold liquid bubbled down his throat, and Aldric realized how thirsty he had actually been. It took a lot of willpower to not just down the whole bottle. "Actually, I wanted to ask your advice on that, Hayden. You gave me some turnip seeds, but are there other crops you recommend?"

"Oh! Well, in the springtime there's a wide variety of plants that can grow. For example…"

After a surprisingly enjoyable evening of good food and friends, Aldric returned home with some energy restored. Maybe it was the couple beers in him, but he felt well enough to take a few more swings at a rock. He hefted up his previously-discarded pickaxe, whistling poorly as he picked out his next lithic victim. 

At his swing, the rock cracked and shuddered. When struck a second time, it broke into pieces. 

Too many pieces.

Aldric started at the pile, certain he hadn't drunk enough to see double. So the extra rocks meant…

"The bastard actually did it. He…" Aldric whispered, looking at his hands. "I'm magical. I'm magical?? I can…through Caldarus' boon, I can duplicate stone…god that's such a stupid power now that I'm saying it out loud." He laughed. "I need to ask for something cooler next time. Next time! If I stay here, in Mistria, doing what the villagers want, what Decima wants…I'll collect Essence. And get more powers…"

For once, Aldric was ok with not swinging his sword. The idea of him having control of magic had always been…uncomfortable with him, since he got his face scarred, but this time was different. This time it was an honest-to-god dragon he was working with. Possibilities whirled through Aldric's head. Anything was possible. 

"Just need to keep it hidden." Aldric murmured as he settled down into bed. "Can't have the villagers knowing, especially Juniper. And how would I even explain it to Decima?" 

His sleep was dreamless that night.