Chapter 5: A Learning Experience

A few hours later, a knock came from Michael’s door, causing him to stir. It appeared that he had fallen asleep, although he didn’t remember it. Sitting up, he worked his mind into a functional state, before hearing the knocking again. “Who is it?” He asked, stretching his body and moving out of the bed.

The Door opened, revealing a familiar face, one which he barely recognized. It was Alrune, the man that accompanying Prince Arthur in the summoning ritual. His coat, which Michael first thought was a lab coat, was actually just a long white robe, adorned with a golden rose over his heart. He was well built, with a young, almost baby like face, save for his pure white hair. At his side was a long scabbard, holding what Michael presumed to be a sword.

“Sorry to interrupt anything you were doing kid, but I’ve come to take your information.” The man’s voice sounded young, clear, and slightly higher pitched, his stature and tone giving him almost a gentlemanly tone. “To be clear, I know some heroes have had some disputes, so I must inform you that I am doing this routine with every other hero, not just you. It seems as if the introduction of the traitor has shaken them up, if not made them a little suspicious of every action.” He reached out his hand, giving him a nod. “My name is Alrune, head of research and magic in the Aldenian Kingdom”

Michael took his hand, shaking it firmly. “Michael, it’s a pleasure to meet you, Alrune.” He smiled brightly, seeing the man smile in return. “Not to be rude, but I thought this country was called Aldemar. How is Aldenian related?”

“Ah, it was a pain for others to say Aldemarian, which is what our people were first called, so neighboring countries began to just call us, Aldenians, which seems to fit better.” Alrune chuckled, pushing up his spectacles. “So Michael, care to tell me some details about yourself? I need to write down your information on you, starting with your name, class, core, and quest.”

Michael hesitated for a moment, but he decided to speak. “My name is Michael Locke, I’m a Spy, and I have a fire core.” He said, pausing to let Alrune write.

“A Spy… It’s been a while since we’ve seen anyone with that class. I’m going to guess that your skill is something that allows you to infiltrate a group? Maybe blend in with a crowd or perhaps assimilate information?” Alrune checked off boxes on a sheet of parchment as he spoke.

“Ah yes, my skill lets me pretty much manipulate my clothing, basically changing how they look, and creating new ones, stuff like that. I didn’t really get much information from my tree.” He went with the story that Mortis created, hoping that nothing immediately gave him away.

“Perfect! Sounds like we’ll have some special jobs for you eventually. Now, let’s talk about your quest!” Alrune seemed complacent at Michael’s answers, or perhaps he was just really good at acting. In any case, Michael was keeping up his façade, his face casual as he spoke. “What’s your quest young man? The one your tree gave you.” He set the tip of his quill on his parchment.

“The tree told me I had to stop a group called the “Cult of Narraximus,” but I didn’t get anything other than that.” Michael’s heart practically stopped as he watched Alrune scribble down words, fearing that he would be discovered. His hand, unobservable to both of them, was shaking ever so slightly at the intensity of the situation.

“Alright then Michael, that all checks out. We’ll have to do some digging about this cult you speak of, but if they are a threat, they’re most likely very hidden. We’ll contact you when we get more information.” Alrune tore out the sheet of parchment and folded it neatly into a scroll. “As for your information, no one save the King, his advisors and a few other important individuals such as myself will know this. The only real thing that will be kept secret from other heroes is your special skill and quest. Your core and such has to be publicly available so you can communicate accordingly.” He stood up and shook Michael’s hand again. “We will be searching for tutors in the next few weeks, so you’ll soon have your own private tutor; just to teach you the basics before you attend Academy.”

Michael breathed a large sigh of relief as Alrune stepped out, closing the door behind him. He bent over, placing a hand on his fervently beating heart. I thought I was gonna get caught… How can I keep this a secret when I’m faced with stuff like this?! I might as well be placing a sign that says “TRAITOR HERE” if I can’t control myself. Not to mention, I was not at all prepared for that!

“I wonder what core Ken received… I’ll have to ask him later.” He looked around his room, seeing a standard desk and chair in one corner of the dorm sized room. On the desk he saw a stack of parchment and a quill, with complimentary ink. On the desk sat a lantern filled with a glowing yellow orb, that seemingly illuminated the entire room. On the other side of the room sat a large chest sitting next to an open armoire, several pairs of clothes neatly stacked inside.

He walked across the wooden floor to his desk, opening a drawer and finding an empty journal, perfect for a diary. Underneath sat a bin, undoubtedly for garbage and unneeded items. In total, the room was quite small, but it was cozy and comforting, as if it was already his home. He’d have to do some decorating, but that was for a later time.

He spent the rest of the day exploring the castle, moving wherever his feet took him. As he was travelling one of the halls, he was stopped by a rather large man, with scars littering his face. Undoubtedly, this man had fought through many battles throughout his lifetime. “You… you’re one of the new heroes, aren’t you boy?” His voice was gruff, scratchy almost.

“Y-Yes I am! And who are you, if I may ask?” Michael replied with a polite tone, doing his best not to offend the burly man, who was rubbing his beard.

“Ah! Welcome to Aldemar, young one! My name is Ulric, general of the Aldenian armies, and your soon-to-be combat instructor! It’s an honor to meet one of the heroes!” He stuck out his hand, firmly shaking Michael’s. “You’re a little scrawny, but it’s my job to ensure that you become of the fiercest warriors in the land!”

Michael chuckled, a friendly smile appearing on his face. “Pleased to meet you General Ulric! I look forward to working with you!” He liked this man. He could already tell that Ulric was a capable soldier, and to be respectful and firm, Michael tried to be as courteous as possible. “I’m currently exploring the castle, trying to get a feel for things. Is there any place you might recommend for someone such as myself?” He asked.

“Well, the royal library is a great place. The books there rival the Great Library of Neilos! If you want to your own research, or just relax, the library is a great place.” Ulric exclaimed, eager to give information.

“That’s great! I’ll be sure to head on over and check it out!” He bowed his head, and continued to walk down the hall, his mind set on his new destination. He had seen it before, coming into the castle, so he hopefully wouldn’t get lost. He turned in that direction, walking fast.

“Alright then…”

“Time to get acquainted with this new world!”