Genesis Vol 2

Volume 2

Chapter 1: Poutos

Veritas realized the change in his surroundings. Standing in a large hall, amidst thousands of others new players. From his point of view everyone wore the same outfits, a black pants with matching shirt and sandals. He found himself standing near a wall, which contained a graffiti with instructions for beginners.

Feeling claustrophobic he opted to go outside through the large double doors. Taking a step he noticed a difference in his body movement. It seemed more rigid, almost robotic, advancing his foot once more he tried to correct himself. This resulted in him stumbling down to the tiled floor. Again, he got up and pushed his body towards a more fluid motion. On the second attempt he succeeded, content he filtered through the other players reaching the doors.

A boisterous street, the smell of different foods and perfumes, blue clear skies shocked his senses, with the familiarity came a difference. People strolled with giant swords on their back, Elves chatting with merchants, a tall castle sitting atop the city. Veritas smiled, breathing in he wandered intoxicated by this new experience.

It didn’t take long for him to notice a small gathering. An old man, with bleached white hair and a long beard gathered everyone’s attention. Dressed in a simple white shirt and pants he energetically moved about, near the old man a large dog laid down.

Curious Veritas approached and listened. “What is the most legal way to make someone a slave to you?” The man asked the crowd

“There is none,” a person yelled.

Veritas himself knew of a way. Should he expose himself? Should he stay quiet? Shaking his head, he decided to move away, not wanting to attract attention. Yet, Veritas recalled his mother’s words, “Be true to yourself.” Pumping himself, he took a step forward and spoke up, “Debt.”

With a speed surpassing his age the older man faced Veritas, “My child, repeat for me?” A broad grin appeared on his lips.

“To owe someone money is a form of servitude, close to slavery… Until that money is paid back, one is someone else’s investment,” Veritas clarified.

“Hahaha, my child what is your name?”

“Veritas.”

Clasping Veritas’ shoulder the man presented himself, “My name is Poutos, and this is my beast Ceb. Come with me I’d like to further talk with you.”

Suddenly a screen appeared in front of his eyes.

-Ding-

Quest

-Difficulty: F

-Mission: You are invited to talk with Poutos

-Reward: Friendship with Poutos. (+) 200 XP

-If failed/denied: Nothing

-Will you accept: (Yes/No)

Reflecting on it he realized he had nothing to lose. Thus, Veritas nodded, letting himself be dragged by Poutos. “So Veritas I take it you are an Adventurer correct?” He cocked his head confused at the adventurer moniker Poutos used.

“It’s a term we here use to refer your kind. Those who came from beyond. Apparently we get called NPCs, which stands for Non Playable Characters. Like what does that even mean?” Poutos questioned. Ceb next to him grumbled.

Shaking his head Poutos explained, “Ceb here pregnant right now she’s having some difficulties walking. I also told you to stay home.”

The beast barked reproachfully, “I will not get in trouble without you here. I am a grown man.” He complained towards her.

Veritas smiled as Ceb rolled her eyes at Poutos’s comment. He could tell by this interaction they had known each other for a long time. Without Veritas realizing it he had been brought to near a large gate.

Poutos moved towards a small house which seemed isolated from the rest of Alsèf. Veritas observed a lush garden separated by a stone path leading to the front door.

Poutos waved, “Come in, come in.” Opening the house, he ushered Veritas. The lavish interior contrasted the modest exterior. Perfectly crafted wooden chairs faced a gracefully sculpted fireplace.

“Wow, your home is well decorated,” Veritas sincerely complimented.

Grinning Poutos accepted the praise. Ceb waddled her way to a plush pillow and gently laid down on it. “Take a seat,” gesturing to a nearby chair. Veritas did as asked, Poutos disappeared to the next room.

As he waited he gazed at the various painting which adorned the walls. On one of them he saw what appeared to be a younger version of Poutos, resting under an oak tree. Examining the painting further he picked out a cub whom he assumed to be Ceb, curled on Poutos’s belly.

Another painting portrayed Poutos stood still with a brilliant smile on his lips. He could tell that in his youth Poutos could be called handsome. In this one he didn’t find Ceb.

“Ah you’re did these painting catch your eyes,” Poutos walked in with a tray containing two cups and a jug.

Veritas nodded. “Who painted them?” He asked.

A gentle grin adorned Poutos’s mouth. “My wife did. She loved to paint everything. From historical events to small plants.” Taking the jug, he poured the liquid serving it to Veritas. Taking a sip, he found the drink sweet, he identified it as an alcohol he had yet to drink.

“She was beautiful. Probably the most perfect woman in the world,” Poutos twirled his cup then took a swig. “Her eyes, the way she’d stare at me whenever I’d mess up, and I did that a lot.

These paintings are the few she held on and refused to give away.