Chapter 4 Genesis

Genesis Village Morning, Month of The Autumn Winds

As Daniel, now known as Kalun in-game, passed through the portal, he felt his stomach churn, as if he was thrown off a dog-pulled sled. When he was almost about to pass out, he felt his feet touch solid ground. Regaining his bearings and pushing back the feeling of nausea, he started to stabilize himself on a post near the portal, breathing heavily to compose himself.

After getting his bearings, he started to look around, and what greeted him was a small town, more like a large village. Straw huts surrounded the circular plaza where the portal was situated. A man, dressed in what appeared to be finely crafted black leather armor, approached him.

"Are you okay, sir?" the man asked with a gruff voice.

Kalun assured the man, who was actually an npc guard, that he was okay. The guard then nodded, and pointed him to a bench so he could rest before going back to his post.

'That was intense, but better than before I guess.' He sighed and tried to remember the basic commands for the game. 'So there was Status an-'

A window materialized after he thought of the word. He noted the function and looked at the Status Screen.

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Status:

• Name: Kalun

• Race: Wood Elf

• Level: 1

• Job Class: n/a

• Sub Class: n/a

• HP: 100/100

• MP: 50/50

• STR: 8

• END: 9

• AGI: 12

• DEX: 13

• INT: 11

• WIS: 12

• Fame: 0 (Neutral)

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A couple more checking and commands, he had noted everything about the functions of the HUD. There was a storage system, but there was weight capacity. He thinks it was strength based. There was a skill tab and Ability tab, but not tree.

'Maybe I need a class first.'

Then there was the Racial Traits. According to the official websites, each race had its ups and downs. Elves, more attuned to mana, were agile and excelled in crafts. Dwarves, bulkier and tank oriented, focused on heavier crafts. Gnomes boasted the highest wisdom stat. Orcs, the strongest of the starter races, so on and so forth. Any player can train any stat they want. But some racial traits make it harder for a specific stat to raise.

Racial traits:

Wood Elf Racial Traits:

Keen Senses

Fleet of Foot

Mask of the Wild

Elf Weapon Training

Trance

Fey Ancestry:

You have advantage on saving throws against being charmed and magic can't put you to sleep.

Nature's Gift:

Your connection to nature allows you to communicate with small beasts. They recognize you as a kindred spirit, and you can understand their simple communication.

Woodland Agility:

You have proficiency in the Acrobatics skill, reflecting your agility honed through a life in the woods.

Kalun happily closed his Racial traits Screen; it was really the right choice to pick a wood elf. His childhood, his years of happiness was filled with scenes and memories of nature. ' I'm here to have fun and explore, that is my goal.'

Kalun stood and started stretching. Knowing how to move the body and actually using it is very different. Other players, were looking at hm weirdly, some giggled at his actions. But he did not care. Kalun was thinking that if he wants to explore the game, he has to familiarize himself with his new body.

Once done with his stretching, he looked for a guard that he could ask for information. The game did not include a any information on the digital map. An adventurer must first explore the place or buy a pre maid map of the area.

After getting the information he needed and some directions. He started walking. As he walked down the cobblestone path, he marveled at the intricacies and possibilities this new world can offer. The sun bathed the village in a warm morning glow, casting long shadows on the ground. NPCs, or non-player characters, went about their business, and other players hurriedly moved around, absorbed in their own missions. As he was looking around, he saw the place that he was going to.

The training center loomed ahead, a sturdy wooden Victorian building with a sign swinging in the breeze. Kalun pushed open the door and stepped into a bustling environment. Players sparred in designated areas, and trainers offered advice to those seeking to gain and improve their skills.

Yes, gain skills. According to the official page of the game, players can learn any skills they want as long as the Job/Class, Race, and Character allows the skills. The freedom is something the game boasts.

Approaching a Browned-Skinned Elf that looks like a trainer, Kalun inquired about the available classes and the training regimen.

The trainer, recognizing the eagerness in the newcomer's eyes, provided detailed information about archery classes, wilderness survival, and the art of elven craftsmanship.

Kalun spent hours at the training center, honing his skills and immersing himself in the vibrant atmosphere of Genesis Village

"You're doing great, newbie, your aim is not bad, and you know a lot about Wilderness Survival than I thought. Most newbies, don't even know how to hold a bow HAHAHA!!" laughed the instructor as he patted Kaluns back. Kalun put up an awkward smile, not knowing how to respond to the enthusiastic instructor.

His name is Eric. Eric Valmiaris as far as Kalun knows. A very enthusiastic Hunter as he said himself. He was a great help to Kalun during his training in the dojo, teaching him correct posture while shooting, shooting styles, hitting still and moving targets, and some wilderness guides.

"Thank you for the complement, Sir." He respectfully bowed to Eric.

As Kalun expressed, Eric's response was reassuring. "Don't be stiff, son. Relax a bit. You did great." The enthusiastic Hunter then shared exciting news about an upcoming tournament in the dojo, offering promising prizes for beginners like Kalun.

As the training session concluded, the vibrant atmosphere of the dojo began to settle. The two talked a little bit more, until Kalun left, to look around town. As Eric looked at Kalun back, a twinkle of pride in his eyes. With a friendly grin, he muttered,

"Looking forward to seeing you in action at the tournament tomorrow. Bring your A-game, and who knows, you might just walk away with something more than the prize."

Meanwhile…

Satisfied with his training session, Kalun decided to explore the village further. He strolled through the bustling marketplace, where vendors peddled goods ranging from weapons to magical trinkets. Players bartered and haggled, creating a lively atmosphere that mirrored a real-world bazaar.

Feeling a bit overwhelmed, Kalun sought a quiet place to gather his thoughts. He spotted a bench under the shade of a large tree in the central plaza. The tree's branches stretched out like a protective canopy, and a sense of calm emanated from the area.

Seating himself on the bench, Kalun took in the surroundings. The virtual sunlight filtered through the leaves, casting dappled shadows on the ground. The sounds of the marketplace became a distant murmur as he focused on the tranquility of the spot.

Unexpectedly, a vendor approached, offering him a fruit basket. "Freshly picked fruits, sir? A perfect snack for your adventures."

Kalun, initially surprised by the vendors initiative, politely declined. The vendor nodded and moved on to other potential customers. He looked at the vendor and saw that it was actually a young girl. Her clothes were ragged but the fruits she was offering was not bad. 

As he sat beneath the ancient tree, its sprawling branches providing a natural canopy, Kalun observed the ebb and flow of virtual life in Genesis Village. The air buzzed with a sense of anticipation, and players moved around like currents in a river, each with their own purpose and destination. Some were immersed in animated conversations, sharing tales of their virtual exploits, while others ambled by, lost in quiet contemplation.

A fellow elf caught Kalun's attention, strumming a guitar with skillful fingers. The gentle chords resonated through the virtual space, creating a harmonious backdrop to the serene scene. The soothing melody seemed to emanate from the very fabric of the game world, infusing a touch of tranquility amidst the bustling activity. Kalun marveled at the unexpected beauty that emerged from the collaborative efforts of the game's creators and its diverse player base.

Deep in contemplation, Kalun's thoughts danced between the real and virtual realms. He marveled at the intricate details of the leaves overhead, the soft rustle of the wind, and the nuanced play of light filtering through the virtual foliage. It was a moment of pure immersion, where the lines between reality and the game blurred, leaving him entranced by the digital oasis.

As the music continued to weave its enchantment, Kalun found himself transported back to memories of a time before Genesis Village—a time when he was just an 11-year-old boy navigating the wilderness of life with his mother. The recollections were bittersweet, for those moments of exploration and joy were tragically cut short.

The painful memory unfolded like an old photograph, capturing the essence of his past. He and his mother, united by a love for nature, embarked on journeys to different forests, landmarks, and untamed wilderness. Those excursions were more than mere adventures; they were the threads that wove the fabric of their bond, creating cherished memories that lingered in the recesses of Kalun's consciousness.

Then came that fateful day when the tranquility of their routine was shattered. A routine drive to the store turned into a catastrophic collision, a cruel twist of fate that claimed his mother's life. In a moment of selfless heroism, she shielded him from the impending danger, sacrificing herself to ensure his safety. The car, engulfed in flames, became the crucible of tragedy.

The trauma left Kalun in a coma for three long years, a period of unconsciousness where the boundaries between nightmares and reality blurred. When he finally awoke, he found himself grappling with a harsh reality—he was now unable to walk. The weight of guilt and grief pressed upon him, and the echoes of that traumatic incident haunted his waking hours.

Yet, this offered a refuge, a place where Kalun could rewrite the narrative of his life. Now, at 19, he somehow found solace in the beauty of the virtual world. The ancient tree, its leaves whispering tales of resilience, became a symbol of his journey—a journey to reclaim the past, and to discover the uncharted territories of hope that lay ahead.

Suddenly the serenity was disturbed by loud shouts and laughing.

He noticed an unpleasant turn of events. Some players, perhaps fueled by the anonymity of the world, started bullying the vendor that offered him apples. Mocking laughter and taunts echoed in the air. Kalun, unable to sit idly and doing nothing, stood and stepped forward to help the vendor.

"Hey, leave her alone," he called out to the bullies, a firmness in his tone. The vendor looked at Kalun with wide eyes, gratitude mixed with surprise.

One of the players sneered, "What's it to you? Mind your own business." But Kalun was undeterred. "No one deserves to be treated like that. If you don't want the fruits, fine, but there's no need for bullying."

As the tension escalated, the young girl, feeling a newfound ally in Kalun, whispered a quick "Thank you" to him. Kalun extended a hand, gesturing for her to follow. "Come with me," he said, leading her away from the bullies.

After securing the vendor, Kalun confronted the bullying players again, the air grew tense with exchanged words. The lead bully, a player with a mocking tone, retorted, "Look who's playing hero! What's your problem, elf? Can't handle a little fun?"

The leading player was a hulking figure, an Orc by description, with blue skin and a red streak over his right eye. He was with other Orc players. Smaller than him, but just as ugly.

Kalun, standing firm, responded, "Fun shouldn't come at the cost of someone else's feelings. It's basic decency." The tension escalated as the players exchanged heated words, and the once-bustling marketplace felt like a battleground of egos.

 As the stare down was boiling, a group of guards appeared, their avatars clad in authoritative armor. One of the guards, a stern-looking figure, stepped forward.

"What's going on here? Explain yourselves."

 The lead bully sneered at Kalun, realizing the interference, tried to play it off. "Nothing, officer. Just a little disagreement. No harm done."

But Kalun, not backing down, spoke up. "They were harassing this vendor for no reason. Everyone deserves to be treated with respect, even in a game." Whispering the last part so that only the orc could hear.

The guard turned a scrutinizing gaze toward the bullies. "Harassment is a violation of the Town's rules. We won't tolerate such behavior. You'll face consequences if this continues."

The bullies, now on the defensive, muttered half-hearted apologies. The guards warned them before hauling them out with them, leaving the marketplace in an uneasy quiet. Kalun turned to Lina, offering a reassuring smile. "Are you okay?"

Once at a safe distance, the young vendor introduced herself as Lina. "Thanks for helping, sir. I didn't know they were bad." Kalun smiled reassuringly. "No problem."

Lina, with a shy yet genuine smile, clasped her hands together. "I'm Lina. I usually sell fruits here. It helps me and my grandma make a living."

Kalun, crouching down to be at eye level with Lina, replied kindly, "It's a tough world out here. You're doing a great job. Those bullies won't bother you anymore."

Lina's eyes brightened, and she fidgeted with the hem of her worn dress. "Thank you, sir. You're very kind. I thought all adventurers were like those bullies, but you're different."

Kalun chuckled, "Not all of us are bad. Some are here to enjoy the sceneries and some just want to help others. Like me. Now, why don't you tell me more about yourself, Lina? How did you end up selling fruits? Where is your family?"

Lina hesitated before speaking, "I lost my parents when I was very young, and my grandma and I have been on our own since then. Selling fruits is how we survive. Grandpa is getting old, and I want to make sure he's taken care of. But today, you made me feel like there's still kindness in this world. Thank you."

Kalun, with a mixture of emotions, responded, "I'm sorry to hear about your parents, Lina. But it warms my heart to see someone like you taking care of your grandpa. Now, you mentioned a grandpa, is he doing well?"

Lina's expression shifted from shyness to pride. "Oh, he's not my biological grandpa. He's a kind druid who takes care of me. We live near here, and he tends to a little grove. The fruits I sell are grown there, and I help him by taking them to the village."

Kalun, intrigued by Lina's mention of the druid, nodded appreciatively. "A druid, you say? That's intriguing! Nature has always fascinated me. I'd love to learn more about the wonders of the forest. If it's not too much trouble, could you guide me to your grove? I'd be honored to explore and meet your wise druid friend."

Lina's eyes lit up with enthusiasm. "Absolutely! He's really knowledgeable about the forest and its creatures. I'm sure he can share some incredible insights with you."

Smiling warmly, Kalun responded, "That sounds fantastic, Lina. Whenever you're ready, lead the way. I'm excited to experience the beauty of the grove and meet your druid friend."

As they walked towards the outskirts of Genesis Village, Lina shared more about her life in the grove under the care of the wise druid, Panipelus.

"Panipelus is like a grandpa to me," Lina remarked with a fond smile. "He's been taking care of me ever since I can remember. He's not just a druid; he's a guardian of the forest. The grove is his sanctuary, and the plants and creatures are like his extended family."

Intrigued, Kalun inquired, "How did you meet Panipelus, Lina? It must be quite a story."

Lina's eyes sparkled with nostalgia. "I was just a little girl lost in the woods when he found me. He didn't hesitate to help. Since then, he's taught me so much about nature, and together, we cultivate this grove. It's our way of giving back to the forest that has provided us so much."

As they approached the grove, the air became charged with a vibrant energy, and the sounds of rustling leaves and singing birds filled the atmosphere. Panipelus, an elderly druid with a long white beard, emerged from a shelter woven into the branches of a massive tree.

Lina beamed with pride, "Grandpa Panipelus, this is Kalun. He's a kind adventurer who helped me today. Kalun, meet my grandpa and the guardian of our grove, Panipelus."

Panipelus nodded sagely, acknowledging Kalun's presence. "Greetings, young adventurer. Lina speaks highly of you. The forest has a way of bringing kindred spirits together. Welcome to our sanctuary."