The grass beneath my boots didn't feel like the same Highland turf I'd grown up knowing. Despite its appearance, which featured green blades with a hint of dampness from the chill in the air, this grass exuded a unique richness. The earth beneath my feet seemed to come alive, pulsing with a vibrancy far beyond mere fertility. I crouched down and ran my fingers through the soft blades, marveling at their velvety texture. Around me, the landscape had begun to change.
The portal behind me stood impressively, like a doorway to another world should. From the moment we emerged victorious from the dungeon, the ground around it had begun to evolve. The rocky, uneven earth was now dark and loamy, as if centuries of perfect soil had materialized overnight. The air shimmered, reminiscent of sunlight glinting off invisible motes of dust, and upon inhaling, I sensed a fresher, cleaner taste. It invigorated me, like the perfect idea of freshness after a crisp rainfall.
"It's starting," Moira's voice purred in the back of my mind, her tone carrying a note of satisfaction. "The land remembers the vessel. You've opened the door." I stood and dusted my hands off, glancing back at the shimmering circle of the portal. "The door to what, exactly?" I asked aloud, even though I knew the answer would come directly to my thoughts.
"To what it once was," Moira said, her voice lilting with a wistful, almost aching nostalgia. "Albion—a land of such perfection and beauty that even its memory feels like a dream."
I had to consider those words. I was struck by the way she uttered those words. "Albion," I repeated, testing it on my tongue. "That's what this is? Or what it's becoming?"
"Not yet," she said, almost wistfully. "But it will be. Albion is the true form of this world. A separate place, yet the very place your world was modeled after. Albion is a place characterized by perfection and balance. Everything your world is, Albion also possesses, but in richer detail and quality. Albion boasts pure air, soil, and water. They are all in harmony. When magic flows freely, the reflection sharpens, and your world inches closer to the original."
I couldn't help but marvel at the thought; it sounded unbelievable. I would have dismissed it outright if there hadn't been this musical voice in my head telling me about it. This reflection she spoke of was intoxicating. I turned a slow circle, taking in the subtle changes around the portal. The grass was becoming thicker and greener, and the air was brimming with vitality. It was beautiful in a way that made my chest ache.
"I don't remember reading anything about Albion in my books," I said, trying to temper the awe in my voice with a bit of practicality. "Gaelic myths, sure, but not this."
Moira chuckled softly. "The fables of your ancestors are but fragments, simple pieces, and whispers of what once was. Albion is the origin; it is the perfect form. Everything in your world, every wonder, every beauty, is but a pale imitation."
I lowered myself to sit cross-legged in the grass, leaning back on my hands as I stared at the portal. "You're saying this, all of this," I gestured to the faint motes rising from the ground, dissolving into the air like fireflies, "is what the world is supposed to be?"
"In its ideal state, yes," Moira said. "And it will be again if you're clever enough to make it so."
That got a small laugh out of me. "No pressure, then."
She didn't answer immediately, and for a moment, I was grateful for the silence. I let my thoughts wander, trying to process the enormity of what she'd just told me. Albion. A perfect world hidden beneath the layers of imperfection we called reality. And somehow, I was meant to bring us closer to it.
"Why me?" I asked, the question slipping out before I could stop myself. Doubts churned in my mind. I wasn't a hero, not the kind of person who fought wars or toppled tyrants. What made me worthy of this responsibility—this power? I couldn't shake the thought that someone else, smarter, stronger, and braver, might have been a better choice. "Of all the people you could have chosen, anyone more equipped for this, why did it have to be me?"
"Because you care," Moira said simply, her voice soft. "You see the potential in people, even when they don't see it in themselves. You're not perfect, but you have the will to learn, to grow. Not only that, your lineage makes you uniquely suited to become a central figure of a magic user. Your potential is without equal. I was blessed and lucky for you to find my prison."
I let her words sink in, staring down at my hands. The faint golden threads that traced my skin pulsed gently, a constant reminder of her presence. She believed in me, or at least she believed I was capable of this. That had to count for something, right?
And yet, there was a part of me that couldn't help but be wary. Moira was powerful, infinitely so from what I'd seen. That kind of power came with its own dangers. She'd been kind, playful even, but I'd heard the edge in her tone when she spoke of Albion. This wasn't just some pet project for her. It was personal. It was love for that other land.
I shook my head, trying to clear my thoughts. I'd have time to figure out my feelings about Moira later. For now, I needed to focus on what came next.
My gaze drifted to the tent Hamish had set up a short distance away. He'd turned in early, muttering something about "lettin' the chief handle the big thoughts." The corner of my mouth twitched at the memory. "Chief." It was better than "Robbie," I supposed.
But the title came with heavy implications. Whether I liked it or not, I was leading this strange little expedition. Hamish trusted me more than I trusted myself, if I was honest, and that meant I couldn't afford to screw this up.
I glanced back at the portal, the shimmer of its surface reflecting the faint glow of the motes around it. The breeze toyed with my hair, and I could feel the magic flowing through it, resonating with something deep inside me.
"Moira," I said, breaking the silence. "Albion." I paused to let the word become the primary subject, "Why was it severed from earth in the first place?"
Her voice was quieter this time. "I told you briefly of the Warlock while you were inside the dungeon. And you learned it was he who claimed that stronghold and made it serve his ends through his minions. He is a blight upon Albion. For a time, I was able to restrain him to the Blacklands.
Former pristine lands of Albion, now pillaged of their magic and glory. Its majesty torn asunder and bent to vile deeds. Undead, demons, vile abominations, and cursed ones are his following, along with other monsters.
All the evil that he wreaks there will eventually bleed into Earth too, as reflections of what is perfect and pure become tainted by his corrupted magics. By saving Albion, we can save Earth.
A lot of what occurred to imprison me was stripped from my memory so it could never be used a second time; that's all I recall of that week before the sealing.
But I surmise this... By severing Albion from Earth, it dealt a harsh blow to that warlock... At the cost of the bright potential of Earth."
I nodded slowly, her words settling heavily in my chest. "Then I guess we've got a lot of mending to do," I replied, considering the grand implications of her story. "But if restoring Albion entails halting the spread of corruption to Earth, then I am fully committed."
Her laugh was soft, almost fond. "Indeed we do."
I leaned back, letting the grass cushion my weight as I stared up at the stars. The night was cool, the air carrying the faintest hint of moisture. For the first time in what felt like days, I allowed myself to simply exist.
There were no conflicts, no puzzles, and no significant choices to make. There is only a new sensation of magic in the air.
Albion. It was a lofty goal, maybe even an impossible one. But as I lay there, the shimmer of motes rising around me, I couldn't help but feel a spark of hope.
After a while, the stars above shimmered in their eternal stillness, but my thoughts were anything but calm. The ground beneath me, soft and rich from the changes wrought by the dungeon portal, whispered with energy.
The motes of life essence continued to rise like tiny fireflies, disappearing into the air above. The air here was thick with possibility, a richness that spoke of Albion's awakening influence.
I leaned back against my tent's support pole, staring out at the glow of the portal now in the distance. The circle of perfect earth surrounding it was undeniable proof that magic was changing this land in ways I could barely comprehend. Moira had told me earlier that Albion's presence would bleed into our world, an echo of its perfection bringing life and vitality to everything it touched.
But now, my focus was on perfecting the workings of magic. I'm still learning how everything feels to use, and my time in the dungeon let me know that I needed clarity and precision. I wanted to feel like I controlled this immense power that Moira had given me, and with it, responsibility for the lives that would soon depend on me... I called out to her, my tone tinged with curiosity and determination.
"Moira, I need to see what you see. Since I'm designing how future mages will use this power, I want everything to work properly."
Her voice rang out, smooth and teasing. "Ah, you never tire of tinkering with my gifts, do you? …Very well, let's begin."
With a thought, the system shimmered into view before me. The translucent interface floated midair, glowing softly in the dim light. I selected Stats first, by tapping with my index finger, the grid snapping into place with clean, organized efficiency.
Robert McCallum - Level 4 Apprentice
Strength: 12 Wisdom: 18 Intelligence: 16 Charisma: 14 Agility: 9 Endurance: 14 Fortune: 26
"Stats are clear and concise, ... Is this what you see?" I asked. "Yes, if I choose to. It's not normally so mathematical, but it can help keep goals organized." I was listening, nodding in approval. "A lot of people are not going to like all the numbers. So hide them unless they specifically want to know. Let's move to the skills."
The screen shifted, revealing my list of learned skills. Each skill was paired with its rank and a description of its effects.
Skills:
Earth Manipulation - Rank 3 Minor control and alteration of earth-based materials and spells. Effects improve with experience.
Insightful Mind - Rank 1 Enhances perception and ability to solve puzzles and traps. XP gained from successful problem-solving tasks.
Magicsmithing - Rank 1 Craft magical items with improved efficiency. Reduces resource costs by 50%.
Essence Manipulation - Rank 1 Convert the essence of slain creatures and artifacts into usable resources with greater efficiency than working materials by hand. Evolvable skill.
"Good, I can already see the benefits of magicsmithing and essence manipulation. They go hand in hand." I considered. "Now, let's see the spells."
As I opened the Spells tab, my eyes scanned the list, each name a reminder of battles fought and lessons learned.
Thorns - Rank 7 Nature-based projectiles deal piercing damage. Speed, damage, and efficiency increase with rank.
Stoneskin - Rank 2 Temporarily hardens the caster's skin for increased physical defense.
Earthmaw - Rank 1 Opens a trap in the ground, immobilizing enemies and inflicting crushing damage.
Rejuvenation - Rank 1 Gradual health recovery using natural magic.
Sanctuary - Rank 1 This sanctuary creates a restorative zone with peaceful, regenerative properties.
The moment the fifth spell name flickered across my vision, Moira startled me by blurting out excitedly, "Congratulations! You have achieved knowledge of five Earth-based spells!"
Still perturbed by her sudden shout, I snapped, "Okay! AND?"
Moira sounded somewhat apologetic. "Sorry! Here. Look at it again."
New Perk Unlocked: Earth Spell Mastery...Legendary
Effect: Bonus for crafting new earth spells based on intelligence and fortune stats...
All Earth-based spells are 20% more effective in results...
Earth-based spells cost 20% less mana to cast...
Note: You are the first to achieve this legendary perk. Future achievers will receive the rare version with reduced bonuses...
"Yikes. I've only just begun, and this is already getting too mathy and cluttered," I muttered, unable to suppress a frown. The bonuses weren't just helpful; they were incredible. With my Fortune stat already so high, the potential for crafting new spells was staggering.
And being entirely aware of my special perks for achievements is a nice change from real life, where you have no idea what you've learned or can do. I'm going to have to put some more thought into this; perhaps I can come up with a better way to organize it all. Let's leave math to the scientists; magic can handle all the tedious things.
Moira's voice chimed in, practically purring with delight. "Vessel, you're making history again. I do hope you're keeping track of all your firsts. They suit you so well."
I chuckled, brushing a hand over my forearm where her golden threads shimmered faintly. "If I didn't know better, I'd think you were trying to get me addicted to these perks."
Her laughter rang in my mind, warm and teasing. "Oh, I wouldn't dream of it, though I must admit, it's delightful to watch you grow. Tell me, vessel, how does it feel to wield power that only you can shape?"
I leaned back, letting out a slow breath. "It feels exhilarating. But it also feels like a responsibility. If I'm going to keep growing, I want the system to grow with me. I want choices, Moira, options that let me and others shape our growth in ways that suit us best."
As Moira performed her magic, the interface shimmered and responded to my words. A new feature appeared beneath the Perks category, labeled Choice System. I selected it, watching as the interface shifted to show a branching tree of possibilities.
"From now on," Moira said, her tone tinged with pride, "you will receive options for certain rewards. When you achieve something remarkable, my magic will present you with a choice of perks, tailored to give you a choice in the path you wish to take."
"Perfect," I said, feeling a sense of satisfaction settle over me. "What are all the blessings you have bestowed upon me thus far?"
Moira began to systematically rattle off several of her favorite blessings she's given me. Perks of being her vessel.
Quite pleased with herself, she lists the following things:...
You will experience enhanced growth and control over magical progression for yourself and others...
Impromptu Spellcraft: Emergency-created spells are 30% more powerful but cost 30% more mana...
Dungeon Crawler: Boosts damage to dungeon bosses and improves diplomacy with dungeon creatures...
Earthen Infusion: Enhances earth-based potions, enchantments, and gear by 50%...
Earth Spell Mastery: Earth spells are 20% more effective and cost 20% less mana to cast. Crafting new earth spells gains bonuses based on Intelligence and Fortune...
I stared at the sky for a long moment, feeling a deep sense of pride. This wasn't just a collection of numbers and abilities. It was a reflection of how far I'd come and a promise of what I could achieve.
Moira's voice softened, almost wistful. "You've done well, vessel. But there's still so much more to uncover," Moira said, her tone quieter, almost reflective. "Your progress shapes not only your path but the world around you. Shall we begin your next quest?"
I nodded, the interface shifting to the Quests tab. A new entry hovered at the top of the list, glowing faintly. Curious, I poked it, and Moira responded instead:
"Vessel," Moira began, her tone calm but carrying an unmistakable gravity. "This land is more than just soil and stone—it's the foundation for Albion's renewal. I have a task for you. Locate the owners of this dig site and gain control of the surrounding territory. They hold the keys to stabilizing this region, and their cooperation will be vital."
She paused, allowing her words to sink in. "If you succeed, you will gain the Settlement Control Shard—a powerful tool for managing and growing this territory. However, the rewards don't end there. Convince them to join your cause without relying on gold or coercion. Win them with your vision, and the settlement will grow beyond its limits with enhanced features."
I weighed her words versus necessity. I felt a burning sense of determination in my chest. "All right, Moira. Let's find out who owns this land and see if they're willing to help build something extraordinary." After spending most of the evening working through other details, I finally went to bed after midnight, falling asleep as soon as my head touched my pillow.
The next morning, the crisp Highland air greeted me as I stepped out of my tent. The grass was damp with dew, and the faint shimmer of life essence still hung in the air around the portal. Hamish was already up, tending to the small fire he'd built for breakfast.
"Morning, Chief," he said, his tone light but respectful. "You sleep well?"
"Well enough," I replied, crouching beside him to warm my hands by the fire. "We've got a busy day ahead. I need to figure out who owns this land and negotiate with them."
He raised an eyebrow. "Negotiate, eh? What's the plan? Gold? Promises of glory?"
"Maybe," I said with a faint smile. "But I was thinking more along the lines of offering them help with something they actually need. A quest."
Hamish snorted, shaking his head. "You really are a walking storybook, aren't you? Fair enough. I'll back you up, whatever you decide."
I clapped him on the shoulder, grateful for his support. "Thanks, Hamish. Let's pack up and head to the village. It's time to meet the locals."
The walk to Kilrain was a pleasant one, the path winding through hills and patches of dense forest. The magic of the portal had already begun to seep into the surrounding land. The trees looked healthier, their leaves vibrant and full, and the streams we passed were clear enough to reflect the sky like glass.
As we crested the final hill, the village came into view. It was small, nestled in a valley with smoke curling lazily from chimneys. Fields of crops stretched out on the outskirts, and villagers bustled about their morning routines.
"Looks peaceful," Hamish said, his voice low. "You sure they'll even want to deal with us?"
I nodded, adjusting the pack on my shoulder. "They'll listen. They have to."