06:00 a.m. - At Village Square
As the evening sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in rich hues of orange and pink, Ryan Mercer entered the quaint inn of Eryndral Village. The laughter and chatter of villagers floated through the air, a comforting symphony that felt almost whimsical compared to the stark silence of the digital realm he had grown accustomed to. He approached the innkeeper, a stout man with a bushy beard and a welcoming smile.
"Good evening! How may I serve you?" the innkeeper asked, wiping his hands on his apron.
"I'd like a room for the night, please," Ryan replied, determined to settle his expenses.
"Twenty copper coins for a night's stay," the innkeeper stated, counting the coins from a small wooden bowl behind the counter. Ryan handed over the coins, feeling both relief and excitement at the prospect of experiencing village life.
With the transaction complete, Ryan's stomach grumbled audibly, reminding him that he needed nourishment after a long day. "Do you have any food?" he inquired.
"We do!" the innkeeper beamed. "Just what you fancy."
"Could I see the menu?" Ryan asked, intrigued.
"Yes, yes. Here it is!" The innkeeper nodded enthusiastically. "We have corn soup, bread, and—"
Ryan quickly interjected, "What do you recommend? What's delicious?"
The innkeeper leaned closer, his eyes twinkling with pride. "Ah, well, the corn soup is quite popular—"
"Corn soup it is!" Ryan declared without hesitation, excited to sample the local fare.
He took a seat at a sturdy wooden table and looked around at the rustic charm of the inn. After what felt like an eternity, the innkeeper returned with a steaming bowl of corn soup, its aroma promising depth and comfort.
As Ryan took a spoonful, he paused, beaming at the innkeeper. "Is this for a human?" he exclaimed, the flavors overwhelming his expectations. The taste was unlike anything he had experienced—hints of sweetness clashed with an odd consistency that made it difficult to enjoy. He took a few more bites before shaking his head in dismay.
"I don't quite think I can finish this," he said, the soup costing him 3 copper coins.
After what felt like a rather one-sided battle with the bowl, Ryan managed to push it away, feeling slightly defeated. He stood up, grateful for the experience but eager to find something more to satisfy his palate.
Retreating to his room, he unlatched his bag, filled to its brim with technological wonders and remnants of his previous life. "This is the burger I've had since I first came to this world," he exclaimed, pulling out the sad, cold burger wrapped in foil. He inhaled its scent, the faint aroma of seasoned beef somehow nostalgic against the backdrop of earthy tones filling the room.
Without further ado, he took a cautious bite, the taste slightly bland but immensely comforting. It was still better than the corn soup he had endured moments earlier. Ryan devoured the rest, relishing every moment of familiarity as he washed it down with a refreshing soda he had saved from his previous meals.
Feeling content, Ryan leaned back against the inn's modest cot, enveloped in a serene atmosphere that flashed the promise of adventures to come. As he collected his thoughts, he couldn't help but start mapping out his journey, understanding the curious skill he possessed in this world.
The first was powerful: he could charge electronic devices, a fact he'd already tested with his laptop and phone. The second, however, was more of a limitation—he realized he could not bring items from this fantasy realm back with him. The allure of the magical remains was tantalizing, but it felt constraining.
He thought back to his attempts to bring juice into his bag from this realm. Nothing had appeared, only the old technological items packed along with him when he first arrived. He jotted down his findings in the notebook, gathering his thoughts like scattered leaves compelled to unite by a gentle breeze.
With his musings recorded and the sense of exhaustion settling in, Ryan felt his eyelids grow heavy. He tucked the notebook beneath his pillow, allowing his mind to drift back to thoughts of home—his chaotic life in the technology-driven streets, alongside dreams of the adventures ahead.
As darkness enveloped Eryndral Village outside, Ryan fell into a deep sleep, the rhythmic sound of distant laughter fading into soft dreams. It was here, within the flickering shadows of possibility and wonder, that his journey was just beginning.
10:00 a.m. - At Antlersteed Stables
As dawn broke over Eryndral Village, the first rays of sunlight streamed through the window of Ryan's room, illuminating the humble interior. He awoke feeling refreshed, the memories of last night's corn soup and cold burger fading into the thrill of a new day. After getting ready, he donned his freshly acquired tunic and stepped outside the inn.
Taking a deep breath, Ryan filled his lungs with the crisp morning air, infused with the scent of dew-kissed grass and freshly baked bread wafting from nearby cottages. The village around him was stirring to life, a chorus of voices mixing with the gentle sounds of nature.
Just then, he spotted Rowan dashing toward him, waving energetically. "Ryan! Over here!" he called, his voice filled with excitement.
Ryan approached, "Good morning! What's up?"
"Can you come to the central square? Everyone wants to see you!" Rowan exclaimed, his enthusiasm infectious.
"Sure! What happened?" Ryan asked, curiosity piqued.
Rowan did not respond verbally but instead led the way, his feet quickly carrying them along the cobblestone streets. As they approached the central square, an unexpected sight met Ryan's eyes. The villagers were gathered together, chatting animatedly, with smiles and glances aimed in Ryan's direction. It felt as if the whole village was conspiring to welcome him.
Upon their arrival, the crowd grew silent, and the villagers turned to face Ryan, a wave of warmth washing over him. "We heard you were leaving soon!" one villager called out, stepping forward. "Before you go, we want to express our gratitude!"
One by one, people began to emerge, offering their greetings, congratulations, and heartfelt words. The scene, moved by the spirit of compassion and friendship, created an overwhelming sense of belonging for Ryan.
As he scanned the familiar faces, his gaze locked onto a bright spark among the crowd—little Aelric, the son of Jonas Dawnstar. The boy stood shyly, clutching a small bouquet of wildflowers he must have picked that morning.
Ryan's heart warmed at the sight. Gathering his courage, he knelt to meet Aelric's eye level. "Hey, Aelric! How are you doing?" he asked, his voice soft.
"I'm… I'm okay," the boy replied, his voice trembling slightly. "I miss my dad."
Ryan felt a pang of sorrow for the little boy, whose innocence was tinged with the melancholy of loss. Though he hadn't known Jonas for long, Ryan had learned much from the herbalist during their brief encounters. "I know it's hard," Ryan comforted. "Jonas was brave and kind. He would want you to be strong."
In a moment of impulse, Ryan reached into his bag, rummaging for the treats he had brought from his world. He produced a neatly wrapped bag of snacks, the familiar branding of his old life a stark contrast to the natural surroundings of Eryndral. "Here, maybe this will bring a smile," he said, handing it to Aelric.
To Ryan's surprise, the boy beamed at the snack. Without hesitation, he opened the bag and took a bite. With a slight frown as the taste overwhelmed him, he exclaimed, "This is weird!" Then a giggle burst forth as he looked up at Ryan, eyes sparkling with joy.
Amidst the laughter and chatter of the villagers, Ryan's spirit soared. They shared a moment of connection and vitality, where he could almost hear Jonas' voice resonating through the laughter, reminding him of the beauty that still persisted amid tragedy.
Once the villagers concluded their greetings, Ryan realized—this was the moment he should have thought to take a picture, to capture the essence of this beautiful farewell.
Moved by inspiration, he led Rowan away from the crowd toward the stable where his newly acquired Antlersteed awaited. Villagers followed, their curiosity piqued, eager to see what Ryan was about to do.
As he arrived at the stable, Ryan pulled out his phone, setting it on a post nearby, angling the camera toward the crowd. "Okay, everyone! I'm going to take a picture! Gather around!" he called, ensuring everyone could hear.
Rowan snickered, "What's that little box going to do?"
"I'll show you!" Ryan grinned and set a timer on the phone. "Just smile and wave when the timer goes off!"
The villagers exchanged amused looks, but soon excitement took over as they joined together, virtually squeezing Ryan in the throng.
As the timer counted down, Ryan felt an overwhelming rush of gratitude for this community that had embraced him. With the final seconds ticking away, he flashed a bright smile, and the villagers followed suit—faces beaming with laughter and warmth.
Click.
The phone captured the vibrant moment, preserving it for posterity. Ryan cherished the bond formed in this village, recognizing both the life he had built and the sacrifices made along the way.
Once the farewell festivities concluded, Ryan returned to the stable, where the majestic Antlersteed stood, ready for the journey ahead. He brushed the horse's powerful flank, feeling a surge of anticipation coursing through him.
"Alright, partner," Ryan said, tightening the reins. "Let's go see what adventures wait for us beyond Eryndral."
With one last look at the villagers who had welcomed him, and who waved him off with smiles and tears, Ryan mounted his steed. The promise of new beginnings awaited him, and as they galloped through the village's outskirts, he felt a blend of nostalgia and excitement—a heart forever tied to the community of Eryndral.
11:00 a.m. - Road to Frosthaven
With the warmth of Frosthaven still lingering in his heart, Ryan set off on a four-day journey to the enchanting city. He was filled with anticipation as he mounted Snowball, his newly named Antlersteed, and steered them towards the horizon where the sun kissed the earth farewell. The villagers of Eryndral had wished him well, their faces painted with hope for his safe travels and future ventures.
Before leaving, Ryan had meticulously planned his trip. He stocked up on essential supplies—dried meats, vegetables, herbs, and a few treats to keep his spirits high along the way. Encased within his pack were not only nourishment items but also some basic tools, herbs for first-aid, and a warm blanket to shield him from the evening chill. He was aware that embarking on this journey meant he would need to be well-prepared.
As Antlersteed trotted steadily onward, Ryan felt the exhilaration of adventure coursing through him. The route unfolded before them—lush fields stretched in every direction, kissed by the golden rays of the sun. With the wind in his hair and the rhythmic sound of hooves against the earth, he embraced the freedom this journey offered.
It took him a while to find comfort in riding. The hours melted into one another, and as day turned into dusk, Ryan felt peculiar about calling his steed "Antlersteed" repeatedly. It felt a bit impersonal, a name attached more to duty than companionship. Embracing his whimsical side, he decided to rename the creature "Snowball." The name felt warm and inviting, and to Ryan's delight, Snowball nickered appreciatively, seeming to embrace the new title.
While Ryan hadn't much experience with riding horses, he was eager to learn, viewing this as not only a journey across the land but also as an opportunity for personal growth. He steered Snowball, feeling the increasing synchronization between them. As they flowed along the road, he began to feel a connection develop, guided by the trust he placed in his mount.
With each passing day, they made steady progress, keeping an average speed of about 10 kilometers per hour, alternating brisk runs with slower walks, allowing both Ryan and Snowball to conserve their energy. The beauty of Avarnith was in full display: serene hillsides dotted with wildflowers, clusters of trees swaying gently in the breeze, and fruit-bearing bushes promising refreshment for weary travelers.
As the sun began to set on the fourth day, Ryan sensed the familiar comfort of dusk wrapped around him, signaling the need to find shelter for the night. Medieval travels demanded caution, and finding a safe place to rest was essential. Spotting a dry area beneath a sturdy tree, he cautiously dismounted and surveyed the surroundings. It was an open spot where he could maintain visibility, minimizing the risk of encounters with wild animals.
Knowing Snowball had a unique skill for protection, Ryan felt reassured at the sight of the Antlersteed's horns glittering with a gentle green glow, reminiscent of glowing moss. The soft light painted the area around them, creating an almost magical ambiance dispelling the blanket of night that crept in slowly.
Ryan gathered sticks and dry leaves for a campfire, igniting it with skill learned from his childhood during nights spent camping with friends. Soon the fire crackled to life, casting flickering shadows on the ground and filling the air with warmth. As engaging as the luminous display from Snowball's antlers was, Ryan knew the value of having a proper fire blazing beside him.
After fortifying their temporary camp, Ryan collected a few vines and branches, weaving them together to construct a rough tent. It wasn't much, but it provided a simple veil of security against the elements, and he thought it a small triumph considering his surroundings. Once satisfied with his makeshift shelter, Ryan pulled out his supplies, preparing to eat.
With the dried meat and vegetables he had sourced from Eryndral Village, he whipped together a basic meal, ensuring he would have enough sustenance for the next few days. It was nothing extravagant, but it served to fill his belly and ease the lingering hunger stirred by his long journey.
As the night deepened around him and the stars blinked into view, Ryan nestled into his humble campsite, feeling remarkably content. He leaned back against the tree, resting his weary body while keeping Snowball close. The soft sound of the Antlersteed's hooves grazing the grass mingled with the crackling of the fire, creating a soothing lullaby that eased him into sleep's embrace.
With visions of Frosthaven swirling in his mind, Ryan welcomed the darkness, comforted by the knowledge that tomorrow would unfold new experiences. He would meet new faces and perhaps learn more about this fascinating world he had been thrust into—an adventure that was only just beginning.
12:00 a.m. - Road to Frosthaven
As the fourth night descended upon Ryan's journey, he opted for a change of pace, trading his usual daytime travel for the thrill of the night. The evening breeze whispered through the air, and the expansive sky above was illuminated by two moons shining brightly, their light casting an eerie glow upon the landscape. Ryan couldn't help but marvel at the blood-red hue of the moons; it was both breathtaking and a touch unsettling.
Snowball's form glimmered under the celestial light, adding to the strange beauty of the night. Ryan considered himself fearless, but the enigma of the supernatural—things left unexplained—left him with a shiver of discomfort. He wistfully recalled the fantasy novels he had once found entertaining, filled with unlikely heroes and harems, and he chuckled to himself. "How come the protagonist always ends up with a harem?" He sighed. There was a part of him that envied those characters who encountered their childhood sweethearts or had the chance to be with someone from their past life. In his previous world, he had never had a girlfriend, and the desire to have a family lingered in his heart.
Lost in thought, Ryan continued riding Snowball; however, as he took in the atmospheric beauty around him, he suddenly noticed a small shadow ahead on the path—a flicker of movement that fleetingly passed through his peripheral vision. Snowball, overtaken by excitement, surged forward at a speed of nearly twenty kilometers per hour.
Before Ryan had a chance to react to the shadowy figure that loomed larger in his sight, he caught sight of a woman standing directly in the middle of the road. Alarm surged through him as he instinctively pulled the reins, attempting to halt Snowball's momentum. The sudden stop caused Ryan to lose his balance, and with a jolt, he fell from his horse and landed unceremoniously on the ground. Pain shot through him as the shock of the fall rattled him, but as Ryan gathered himself, he couldn't shake the image of the woman before him.
Seraphina stood there, her presence striking even in her casual attire. The scars that marred her body from countless battles only complemented the fierce beauty she exuded. Her long crimson hair cascaded down her shoulders, contrasting against the soft glow of the moons, and her piercing eyes seemed to glow in the twilight.
In a moment of genuine concern, Ryan quickly pushed through his daze and managed to speak, his voice slightly shaky, "Are you okay, madam? Are you hurt?" He was startled by her indifferent expression as she regarded him but felt compelled to ask again. "What's your name, madam? My name is Ryan."
She turned her head slightly at that, her expression still cool and composed. "Sera," she replied simply, revealing little more.
"Where are you going, commoner?" she inquired, her tone offering a hint of curiosity.
"I'm heading to Frosthaven now. Want to come with me?" Ryan offered, trying to maintain his politeness despite the unusual circumstances. To his surprise, Sera nodded slightly, which filled Ryan with a sense of relief.
With determination, he called Snowball over to rejoin them. "Let's keep going then." Ryan climbed back onto his horse and extended a hand toward Sera. "Lady first," he said with a charming grin.
Sera's eyes twitched slightly, a flicker of annoyance crossing her face, but she accepted his assistance, gracefully hopping up behind him on Snowball. Ryan felt a surge of excitement as the two of them rode together under the haunting beauty of the red moons.
As they began their ride, Ryan couldn't help but fire off a string of questions, eager to unravel the mystery of the striking woman behind him. "So, Sera-Chan," he said, playfully adding the suffix in a way that was both teasing and endearing, "what brings you out here at night?"
Sera's eyebrows twitched again, barely masking her irritation. "I do not understand your fascination with that suffix, commoner," she replied, only half-listening.
"Well, it's a bit of a custom back where I come from. It shows a lightheartedness, a camaraderie!" Ryan explained enthusiastically.
"Lightheartedness?" she echoed, her tone flat. "This place is rife with danger. There is little reason to be merry."
"The dangers just add to the excitement!" Ryan countered, undeterred by her monotone demeanor. "You never know what you might encounter—like this mysterious night travel, or perhaps a dragon or an evil sorcerer?"
"Dragons," Sera replied, her voice barely a whisper. "You think they are merely folklore?"
"Oh, I'd love to meet one! Imagine the stories I could tell!" he exclaimed, his excitement uncontained.
"Little seems to escape your imagination, doesn't it?" Seraphina asked, her voice carrying an edge as she shifted her weight subtly against him.
"Well, imagine if we come across anything interesting," Ryan persisted. "Might as well make the best of it, right?"
"Might as well," she replied coolly, though the corners of her lips twitched ever so slightly.
As they continued down the path, the adventure of the night stretched before them. Ryan couldn't shake the feeling that this unexpected encounter with Sera would lead them both on a journey they had yet to comprehend. The glow from Snowball's antlers cast an enchanting light around them, guiding their path as the landscape transformed under the watchful eyes of the blood-red moons.
With the rhythm of Snowball's hooves accompanying their journey, Ryan felt the thrill of camaraderie blossoming, even amid the shadows of uncertainty that lay ahead.