Xin’an!

"I need to spend this point. But on which skill?" Gabriel muttered to himself, his brow furrowed in thought as he walked. The status window hovered faintly before him, its pale glow casting an otherworldly light on his surroundings.

Skill Points: 1

His fingers absently brushed his chin, feeling the roughness of a beard beginning to form. It was strange, this body that wasn't quite his, yet felt like it belonged to him all the same. He sighed, dismissing the glowing window with a wave of his hand. "I'll figure it out later." he murmured, his voice low and thoughtful.

The forest around him had begun to thin, the trees standing farther apart now. The sunlight, which had struggled to pierce the dense canopy before, now spilled freely through the gaps, casting golden pools of light across the forest floor. The air felt lighter here, fresher, carrying with it a faint breeze that carried the scent of something unfamiliar yet comforting.

And then, through the trees, he saw it.

A gate, vast and magnificent, rose before him. Its towering arch was carved from dark, weathered stone, its surface etched with curling vines, blooming flowers. 

The gate itself was fashioned from wood so dark it seemed almost black, its surface polished to a dull sheen that reflected the fading light of the sun. Golden inlays traced through the wood in circular patterns, catching the light and shimmering faintly as if alive. Above the arch, a massive crest had been carved into the stone—a phoenix, its wings outstretched as if about to take flight.

Gabriel's breath caught in his throat as he stepped closer, his boots crunching softly against the gravel path that had replaced the forest floor. The gate was unlike anything he had ever seen. The closer he came, the smaller he felt. Gabriel reached out, his fingers brushing the edge of the stone arch. It was cool to the touch, solid and unyielding.

Gabriel exhaled slowly, his breath steadying as he turned his gaze toward the gate. His heart thudded in his chest, quickening with anticipation. There was no one in front of the gate—no guards, no travelers, nothing to indicate whether the city beyond was alive or abandoned. He stood there, watching, his mind racing.

Do I knock? Call out? Wait?

As he lingered, imagining how he might gain entry, a deep voice suddenly echoed from above, shattering the silence.

"Hey! You there! Who are you, and what are you doing here?"

Gabriel's head snapped up, his hand instinctively brushing the hilt of his sword. His eyes searched the top of the gate until he spotted the source of the voice: a figure clad in heavy armor, standing atop the battlements. The guard's silhouette was imposing, his expression obscured by distance and the shadow of his helmet.

Gabriel froze for a moment, his thoughts scrambling. The voice wasn't outright hostile, but it carried suspicion—sharp and probing. He needed to tread carefully.

"Oh my!" Gabriel said, letting out a soft, self-deprecating chuckle as he raised his hands in a gesture of peace. His voice was warm, almost soothing. "Forgive me for startling you. I didn't mean to cause any trouble. I'm just a humble traveler, you see."

The guard didn't respond immediately. Gabriel could feel the weight of his gaze, heavy and calculating, as though he were being measured.

"A traveler?" the guard said finally, his tone skeptical. "Not many travelers come through this forest. How did you make it this far?"

Gabriel tilted his head slightly, letting his lips curl into a faint, disarming smile. "Oh, I've just been fortunate enough to avoid trouble." He gestured vaguely to the forest behind him. "I kept to the quiet paths, stayed out of sight, and trusted my instincts. I must say, it's a relief to finally see signs of civilization."

The guard leaned forward slightly, his armor clinking faintly. "You're armed." he pointed out, his voice sharp. "That doesn't look like someone who just 'avoided trouble'.'"

Gabriel glanced down at the rusted sword at his side, then let out a soft, almost embarrassed laugh. "Ah, this old thing? Hardly a weapon, wouldn't you agree?" He drew it halfway from its sheath, showing the jagged, rusted blade. "I picked it up along the way. It's more for comfort than anything else—makes me feel a little less helpless out there. But trust me, I'd probably hurt myself before I hurt anyone else with it."

The guard didn't answer immediately, and Gabriel took the silence as an opportunity to press his advantage. He straightened slightly, adopting the calm, measured tone of the gentle doc.

"I understand your caution." he said, his voice smooth and reassuring. "It's a dangerous world, and you have a duty to protect your city. I'd be suspicious of me too. But I assure you, I'm not here to cause trouble. I'm just looking for a safe place to rest my bones."

The guard shifted, his armor creaking softly as he adjusted his stance. "What's your name?" he asked finally, his tone still guarded but less sharp.

"Marcelle." he said, inclining his head slightly. "Just Marcelle. A wandering doctor, of sorts. Not much of one, I'll admit, but I do what I can to help those I meet along the way."

The guard tilted his head, his posture relaxing slightly. "A doctor, huh?"

Gabriel nodded, clasping his hands behind his back in a gesture of openness. "Indeed. Though I'm afraid my supplies are… lacking at the moment." He gestured to his tattered clothes and empty satchel with a wry smile.

The guard let out a low hum, as if weighing his words. "Hmph. You don't look like a bandit..." he admitted grudgingly. "But these days, we can't be too careful. Stay where you are. I'll send someone down to check you out. Don't move, and don't try anything."

"Of course." Gabriel said with a warm smile, bowing his head slightly. "Take your time. I'm happy to wait."

The guard disappeared from view, and Gabriel let out a slow breath. His smile faded as his posture relaxed, the tension in his shoulders easing slightly. His heart still pounded in his chest, the rhythm loud in his ears, but he'd done it—he'd disarmed the guard, at least for now.

He adjusted his stance, his legs aching from the long journey and the constant tension of the forest. The weight of the rusted sword at his side felt heavier than before, a reminder of how vulnerable he was despite his careful words.

Gabriel glanced up at the phoenix crest above the gate, its fiery wings still catching the last light of the setting sun. The intricate carving seemed almost alive, watching him as if it could see through his mask. He sighed and leaned lightly against the cool stone of the gate, his gaze drifting to the horizon.

So he waited. And waited.

The minutes stretched, feeling like hours. The fading sunlight gave way to the soft glow of twilight, the sky above turning a deep indigo. The shadows of the forest crept closer, and the hum of insects filled the air, broken only by the occasional rustle of leaves. Gabriel shifted his weight from one foot to the other, his mind wandering.

His thoughts drifted. Back then, he had been at the top of the world, adored by millions, his name whispered with awe and admiration. Gabriel had been a star, the kind of actor who could command any role, any production. He had played kings, villains, lovers, and heroes, his performances lauded as masterpieces.

But that was a lifetime ago.

Now, standing at the gates of a city in a world that wasn't his own, Gabriel couldn't help but feel the bitter sting of irony. He wasn't playing anymore—he was Marcelle. At least, that's who the guards believed him to be. And if he wanted to survive, he would have to keep playing the part.

The sound of approaching footsteps pulled him from his thoughts. Gabriel straightened, his hand instinctively brushing against the hilt of his sword as a new figure appeared at the top of the gate.

This guard was different. He was smaller than the first, but his armor gleamed in the faint light, polished and well-kept. He carried a spear, the point glinting sharply, and his face was partially visible beneath his helmet—a young man with sharp eyes and a stern expression.

"Marcelle, was it?" the guard called down, his voice more formal than the first.

Gabriel nodded, offering a polite smile. "That's right. Just a wandering doctor, hoping for a safe place to rest."

The guard didn't return the smile. Instead, he motioned to someone behind the gate, and with a low groan, the massive wooden doors began to creak open.

"Step inside." the guard said, his tone brisk. "We'll need to check you for anything suspicious before you're allowed entry."

Gabriel hesitated for only a moment before stepping forward, his movements slow and deliberate. The gate opened just wide enough for him to pass through, and as he entered, he was greeted by the sight of a small stone courtyard, lit by flickering torches mounted on the walls.

The young guard descended a short flight of stairs, his spear in hand, and approached Gabriel cautiously. In his other hand, he held a small, polished stone that pulsed faintly with a soft, bluish light.

"What's that?" Gabriel asked, tilting his head curiously, though his heart began to race.

The guard's expression remained stern. "A truth stone. It will glow red if you lie. Standard procedure for all strangers entering the city."

Gabriel forced a laugh, raising his hands in mock surrender. "Ah, a lie detector? Very thorough. I understand the need for caution. Ask away."

The guard stepped closer, holding the stone out in front of him. The faint blue glow reflected in Gabriel's eyes as the questions began.

"Are you a spy?" the guard asked, his tone sharp and direct.

Gabriel's smile didn't waver. "A spy? Me? Hardly. I wouldn't even know who to spy for." The stone remained blue.

"Are you here to harm the city or anyone who lives here?"

Gabriel shook his head slowly, his voice calm and steady. "No, not at all. I've seen enough harm in my travels. I only wish to help, in whatever small way I can." The stone stayed blue, and the guard's shoulders relaxed slightly.

"Do you have any hidden weapons or dangerous items on you?"

Gabriel gestured to the rusted sword at his side. "Just this sorry excuse for a blade. Hardly dangerous, unless you're afraid of tetanus." He gave a soft chuckle, and the stone remained blue.

The guard studied him for a moment longer, then lowered the truth stone with a nod. "You check out." he said, though his tone was still cautious. "But don't think that means we trust you yet. You'll be watched while you're here."

"I wouldn't expect anything less." Gabriel replied smoothly, inclining his head. "Thank you for your time. I'll be sure to stay out of trouble."

The guard stepped back, motioning toward a narrow path leading deeper into the city. "You can go. But remember—any sign of trouble, and you'll regret it."

Gabriel offered his most disarming smile, his voice smooth and polite. "Understood. I'm just grateful for the opportunity to rest my weary feet."

The guard didn't respond, his stern gaze lingering on Gabriel for a moment longer before turning and signaling to another guard by the gate. Without a word, they guided him toward a smaller side door embedded in the massive stone wall. The door, reinforced with thick iron bands, groaned as it was pulled open, revealing a narrow staircase descending into the city below.

Gabriel hesitated for a brief moment, his mind racing. They're still watching me. One wrong step, one wrong word, and this could all fall apart. He took a calming breath, his hand brushing against the hilt of the rusted sword at his side as he stepped through the door.

The staircase was steep, the stone worn smooth by countless footsteps over the years. As Gabriel descended, the air grew warmer, carrying with it the faint hum of life—voices, footsteps, the creak of carts, and the distant clang of metal on metal. When he reached the bottom, the second guard pushed open another door, this one smaller and more ornate, and gestured for him to step through.

"Welcome to Xin'an!" the guard said curtly, his tone devoid of warmth.

Gabriel stepped through the doorway, and his breath caught in his throat.

The city stretched out before him, a sprawling maze of winding streets and towering structures that seemed to rise organically from the earth. The architecture was unlike anything he had ever seen—buildings with curved, tiled roofs that arched gracefully toward the sky, their edges adorned with intricate carvings of dragons, phoenixes, and other mythical creatures. Walls of smooth, dark stone were accented with lacquered wood painted in deep reds and golds, the colors rich and vibrant even in the fading light.

Lanterns hung from wooden poles and doorways, their warm glow casting soft, flickering light onto the cobblestone streets below. The streets themselves were bustling with activity, even at this hour. People flooded the street, their colorful silk robes and tunics flowing as they walked. The fabrics shimmered in shades of crimson, emerald, and sapphire, embroidered with delicate patterns of flowers, clouds, and animals.

But as Gabriel stepped into the street, the hum of activity seemed to falter. Eyes turned toward him, and the energy in the air shifted.

Gabriel felt the weight of their stares immediately. Whispers rippled through the crowd like the rustling of leaves in a breeze. Some people turned away quickly, pretending not to notice him, while others openly stared, their faces twisted in barely concealed disgust.

He didn't need to guess why. His clothes were a disaster—torn, stained, and clinging to his slender frame like rags. The fine tailoring they once boasted was now indistinguishable beneath layers of dirt, blood, and sweat. Compared to the elegant, immaculate attire of the city's residents, he looked like a beggar who had wandered in from the wilderness.

So much for blending in, he thought bitterly, forcing himself to keep walking. His head held high despite the shame prickling at the back of his neck. You're Marcelle now. Act the part.

A child tugged at her mother's sleeve as Gabriel passed, her wide eyes fixed on him. "Mama, why does he look like that?" the girl whispered loudly, her voice carrying.

"Hush." the mother said sharply, pulling the child closer and casting Gabriel a wary glance before hurrying away.

Gabriel clenched his jaw, his smile tight as he muttered under his breath. "Charming. Truly welcoming."

The second guard, who had followed him down the stairs, gestured toward a narrow side street. "Keep moving," he said brusquely. "You'll find the market square ahead. Don't linger too long, and don't cause any trouble."

Gabriel nodded, offering a faint smile. "Of course. I'm just looking for a place to rest and perhaps clean up. I wouldn't dream of causing trouble."

The guard grunted, clearly unimpressed, before turning and heading back toward the gate. Gabriel exhaled slowly, adjusting the rusted sword at his side as he took in his surroundings.

The narrow street the guard had directed him to was less crowded, but no less alive. Vendors lined the cobblestone road, their stalls overflowing with goods—silks, pottery, bundles of herbs, and baskets of strange, colorful fruits. The smell of grilled meat and spiced broth wafted through the air, making Gabriel's stomach churn with both hunger and longing.

He paused near a stall where a merchant was arranging delicate porcelain teacups, their surfaces painted with intricate scenes of mountains and rivers. The merchant glanced up at him, her expression immediately souring. She didn't say anything, but the way she turned her body slightly, as if shielding her wares from him, spoke volumes.

Gabriel sighed, running a hand through his tangled red curls. You've played villains, kings, and madmen, he reminded himself. You can handle a few dirty looks.

His eyes drifted upward, toward the rooftops of the city. But as beautiful as it was, Gabriel couldn't shake the feeling of being out of place. He turned his gaze back to the street ahead, his jaw tightening as he began walking again. The whispers followed him, but he forced himself to ignore them. His priority now was clear: find somewhere to clean up, somewhere to rest, and figure out his next move.

Marcelle would know what to do, he thought, a faint smirk tugging at his lips. And so will I.