Chapter VIII Hafenstadt, Schwertsheim's Main City and Gateway to the World

Nestled on the eastern fringes of the Avalon Continent lies Hafenstadt, the bustling capital of Schwertsheim, a city that owes its existence to the visionary House McOtto. Perched southeast of Aigleterre, this coastal hub isn't just a trading hotspot – it's also the Empire's first line of defense against any sea-based threats. You could say it's the Empire's shield and sword all rolled into one.

Given its prime location as a port city, Hafenstadt boasts a web of trade routes that crisscross the skies and the sea. If you're all about sailing the high tides, the marina to the northeast provides passage to Bargeldstadt, a bustling trade haven, and even to the enigmatic Hy Breasail Island. That's the place where intrepid adventurers dare to dive into the depths of the Undersea Ruins, unearthing mysteries that lie beneath the waves.

But that's not all – for those with a yen to explore beyond their borders, the airship station at the southern fringe of the city is a gateway to exciting destinations. Fancy visiting the grandeur of Akropolis, the awe-inspiring marvel of Athennia in the Federal Republic of Nordenbergwald, or perhaps the enchanting allure of Yerushalayim in Byzantina, part of the Mittelmeerwuste States? Hafenstadt's airship routes can take you there in style. It's a world of possibilities waiting to be explored from this coastal gem.

Guess what? In Hafenstadt, they've got you covered with all sorts of handy Kaloyskie services – you know, the nifty ones that sort out your storage and zap you right over to Aigleterre, saving you a bunch of travel hassle. Convenience level: maxed out.

But wait, there's more! Hafenstadt is like an adventurer's paradise. Picture this: on the northern end of the city, you've got the Imperial Neophyte Institute doing its thing. It's like a haven for newbies in the adventurer scene. They're all about training you up in various skills, giving you the lowdown on job opportunities, and generally being your go-to spot for getting the 411 on the world around you.

Feeling the sword-calling in your veins? Swing on over to the western side of town, where you'll find the League of Swordsmen. This is the spot for anyone with dreams of becoming a full-fledged Swordsman. They're all about sharpening your skills and getting you ready to wield that blade like a pro.

Now, let's talk excitement – Emperor Adler III had a genius idea. He thought, "Hey, let's get the people together for some good ol' friendly competition." And just like that, the Schwertsheim Arena was born. This place isn't just an arena, it's like the heart of the town's action. Back then and even now, adventurers from all over gather here to strut their stuff, show off their mad skills, and grab some well-earned fame, glory, and oh yeah, rewards! It's like the ultimate stage for adventurers to shine on. Alright, let's rewind the clock and dive into the origin story of Hafenstadt. So picture this: Aigleterre, the bustling place it is, started to feel the squeeze of too many people. Overpopulation was doing its thing, and citizens were like, "Hey, we need more elbow room and some extra defense, please!" So, the higher-ups put on their thinking caps and voila! Hafenstadt was born.

The city's main gig? Boosting the empire's defenses while giving folks more space to stretch out. The League of Swordsmen, once chilling within the walls of Aigleterre city, decided to make a move to Hafenstadt when it came to life. And guess what? Loads of people jumped on the relocation train, and the city started to thrive. It snagged a prime spot with a port, which basically blew open the doors for trade and getting around.

As time chugged along, they started adding some cool stuff to the mix. Think the Schwertsheim Arena – basically the place where adventurers strut their stuff and bask in the glory. Then there's the Imperial Neophyte Institute – your one-stop shop for newbie training and figuring out the ropes. Oh, and don't forget about the airship dock – your gateway to hopping around to places like Akropolis, Athennia, and Yerushalayim.

Fast forward a bit, and the vibe is still the same. Schwertsheim, now a vital part of Albion's defense strategy and a primo spot for all things adventurous, grew as more and more folks needed a new home. And that's not all – Hafenstadt got a glow-up, sprucing itself up to make room for a spanking new training academy for the up-and-coming Neophytes. Alright, let's unpack what's cooking in Hafenstadt these days. So, remember that skimmer boat chilling on the island's northeast? Well, it got an upgrade – say hello to the new ship that's doing some serious island hopping. It's not just ferrying folks to Hy Breasail Island and Bargeldstadt, but now it's also throwing in trips to Suluan Lighthouse. That's right, you've got options now!

But hold on, that's not all. Those bridge roads that connect Hafenstadt to the mainland and the airship hub? Well, they had a growth spurt to keep up with all the extra traffic coming in thanks to these cool expansions. They're like, "Okay, world, bring it on!"

Now, here's a bit of a plot twist – as cool as all these changes are, turns out a bunch of the Schwertsheim residents decided it was time to shake things up. So they packed their bags and waved goodbye as the renovations were happening. Guess some folks prefer the quiet life, huh?

And guess where I am right now? On the North Eastern Bridge, ready to hop on Captain Sargenigel's spectacular ship, the Saint Yussaf. This beauty is all set to sail me to a place I'm no stranger to – Hy Breasail Island. It's a quirky little spot that, from up high, looks like a skull. But there's more to it than meets the eye – beneath the island's surface, a whole secret undersea kingdom is hanging out. We're talking the legendary Undersea Ruins, a must-visit for adventurers who can hitch a ride from both Hafenstadt and Bargeldstadt. So buckle up, because we're diving into the deep blue!

I quickly paid the fare and hopped onto the boat without wasting a moment. See, I've got this Valkyrie-backed mission on my plate – take down the underwater king, also known as the Kraken. This big guy is scheming to start an invasion from the sea, making the satellite city his first victim on the path to taking over the whole Avalon Continent. Sneaky, huh?

Now, let's talk about this Kraken's lair – it's deep down, way below the surface, hanging out in the fifth level of the Undersea Ruins. And these ruins aren't just any old rubble – they're the leftovers of some super ancient, super magical civilization. Think of it like the remnants of the legendary Atlantis. These folks were no slouches when it came to magic and science, let me tell you. Their know-how was so impressive that us humans can even breathe underwater here, thanks to their magical mojo.

So, what's the Kraken's deal, you ask? Well, it used to be the guardian of this treasure trove of ancient goodies and top-secret knowledge. But things have changed. Now it's ruling the roost and cooking up plans for a major invasion. That's why it's gotta go.

After a day – well, mostly a day – the boat rolled up to the makeshift port of Hy Breasail. I hopped off, and the boat sailed off to do its thing on another island. Captain Sargenigel dropped a hint that he'll be swinging back this way in about a week. That gives me some time to do some brainstorming and prep work, just in case things get wild. Picture this: I'm deep in the heart of the Hy Breasail jungles, making my way towards this cave that's smack-dab in the middle of the island, nestled between two lakes. Now, keep in mind, if you take a bird's-eye view of this place, it's shaped like a skull – lakes for eyes, you know what I mean? Pretty morbidly cool, right?

Anyway, as I approached the cave, I couldn't help but notice that it seemed like forever since any adventurer set foot here. Scattered around were these abandoned huts – the kind that adventurers crash in while exploring. And let me tell you, these huts were like a museum of forgotten stuff. It's like everyone just up and vanished, leaving their gear behind. I couldn't help but wonder what went down here.

Actually, thinking back, I remember hearing whispers about some adventurers who visited this island not too long ago and then went off the radar. Poof, gone. Some folks shrugged it off, saying they probably caught a ride on some merchant ship to parts unknown. I mean, that's kind of the adventurer's way, right? Haha!

Get a load of this – as I swung around to head towards the lake from the cave entrance, I saw something that completely freaked me out. Brace yourself, it was a half-full bottle of beer! I mean, seriously? Who cracks open a cold one on this desolate island and then just bails without even finishing it? It's like some kind of alcohol-related crime against nature. And wait for it, next to the bottle was a skeleton – chilling out against this massive boulder right by the entrance. And get this, the skeleton's all decked out in a uniform that screams "sage." You know, like those scholarly types from the Sage Academy?

My bet is, this poor soul was sent here to play detective, do some research, and all that good stuff. But, as you can probably guess from the whole skeleton situation, things didn't exactly pan out. Maybe a lesson in "always expect the unexpected" would've served him well before venturing off into the wild unknown. Haha, talk about a field trip gone south!

But wait, there's more. Something caught my eye on this sage's lap – looked like a book, all weathered and dusty. I snatched it up, gave it a good blow to get rid of the grime, and guess what the front cover said? "Research Journal." Yeah, I was curious, so I cracked it open and turned to page 19. What secrets were waiting to be uncovered?

Alright, listen up, because I'm about to spill the beans on this place called the Undersea Ruins. You can find it hanging out on Hy Breasail Island, and let me tell you, it's like a playground for creatures in the low to mid-level range. But here's the thing – most of these critters have a thing for the Water property, so if you're packing some Wind elemental weapons or have some Wind-based moves up your sleeve, you're gonna be one happy camper.

Let's break it down: the first couple of levels are kinda like the kiddie pool – nice and safe for the rookies. But once you dive into the third level, things start to get spicy. You've got some feisty residents here, like the Killer Sirenas and the Sea Stallions. These Killer Sirenas are like aggressive mermaids, and they're all about casting the Silence Spell on you while dishing out some serious damage. On the flip side, the Sea Stallions can blind you, so you're stumbling around like a one-eyed pirate.

Now, if you're feeling a bit more seasoned, you might venture into the third level. Beware, it's teeming with fishy monsters. And oh boy, watch out for the Swordfish's Water Ball – it's like they're playing dodgeball with watery explosives! Those Sea Stallions? Yeah, they're like the bouncers at the club, smacking you around and leaving you stunned and vulnerable while their buddies join in on the fun. Oh, and those Marina Orbs? Stay the heck away from those bad boys – they're like underwater landmines waiting to explode.

But wait, there's more! The fourth level is like a monster aquarium, full of fishy dudes who are just itching to ruin your day. Skip the Water Ball, though – they already called dibs on that. Then, you hit the fifth level, and things get real interesting. Mermen are like these dangerous dudes with decent XP drops. Anemones are like snipers, shooting you from afar while delivering some solid damage. And Triton? Oh, he's all about casting a Frost Spikes and Lightning Bolt combo, just to keep you on your toes.

Now, picture this – the Deviantes, this mean green fish-like monster, is like the second-strongest thing in the place, right after the big kahuna, THE KRAKEN. So, if you're up for a little level grinding extravaganza, this tunnel's the place to be. Just remember to stock up on Potions and Buzz Wings, because things can get wild down there. And hey, who said underwater adventures were all chill and bubbles, right?

Alright, folks, let's dive into the next chapter of this wild ride. So, I've been soaking in the info from that journal I stumbled upon. And let me tell you, it's a good thing I'm the cautious type and always come prepared. This underwater adventure ain't no joke, and I'm not about to be caught off guard.

Now, you might be scratching your head wondering, "Hey, where's Arkhenika in all of this?" Well, she's off on a little field trip to Batavia, keeping tabs on some heavy hitters – a Ghost Pirate Lord, an Ancient Turtle, and not one, but two Demon Lords. Talk about a lineup, right? Meanwhile, I've got my eyes set on Schwertsheim, all for the sake of taking down that beast of the deep, the Kraken. Yep, the same one I mentioned earlier in case you missed it in this whirlwind of a story. Haha, keeping up?

And just in case you're wondering about the whereabouts of my trusty Harmonia, fear not – she's holding down the fort at the Drunk Tikbalang Inn. I've got plans, you see. Gonna get myself a castle real soon so that she can sweep her little heart out all day long. That's the dream, folks. Now, where was I? Ah, yes, the story!

After my little reading sesh, I flipped through the pages like a pro and landed on page 25. And wouldn't you know it, things are about to get interesting again. Grab your popcorn, 'cause we're diving right back into the action.

Man, last night was a total nightmare. It was like something out of a tragic epic. A gang of those merpeople came charging at our adventurers' camp, and let me tell you, it was chaos. The ringleader? None other than that ginormous squid-like monstrosity they call the Kraken. It was like they had their attack plan down to a T. Some folks managed to pull off a disappearing act using moth dustballs – lucky them. But for others, well, they fought like hell before they got wiped out. And let's not forget that they went straight for the Archbishops. Talk about strategy.

You see, without those Presbyters, we're toast. No one can whip up a warp portal without 'em. And even if someone miraculously can, it's useless without a stash of blue gemstones. Smart move, taking them out first. As for me, I pulled a quick getaway thanks to that trusty buzz wing I had stashed away. Can't believe I'm saying this, but that little thing might've saved my life.

So morning rolls around, and when I make my way back to the camp, it's a full-blown disaster zone. Total wreckage. Not a soul survived that onslaught, except for yours truly and the few who managed to flee. I scoured through the debris, sifted through the dead, hoping to find some supplies. But nope, nada. Everything's been picked clean by those merpeople. They were like looting pros, snagging anything useful.

Here I am, nursing a nasty Triton-inflicted wound that's looking mighty infected. Odin, if you're listening up there, a little help would be much appreciated. My energy's draining, and my will to keep on keeping on is waning fast. I'm just praying that boat from the mainland swings by sooner rather than later. I'm running out of steam and resolve real quick. You know, these underwater skirmishes? They've been a lost cause for almost a century now. Tough times, indeed.

Man, that's just plain brutal. It sounds like the poor guy didn't pull through after taking that nasty wound from those merpeople. Rest in peace, mystery adventurer. Looks like it's up to yours truly to serve up some sweet, sweet revenge on your behalf. Whoever you are, I've got your back, even if it's from the beyond. Haha!

So, I marched into the entrance of the Undersea Ruins, or as some folks like to call it, the Underwater Caverns. The Nordeners over in Nordenbergwald call it the Underwater Templar, and honestly, I'm just going to roll with calling it the Hy Breasail Dungeon. Enough with the political drama – it used to be pirate turf anyway.

With caution, I made my way down that slippery slope and bam, there they were – five mermen just hanging out, guarding the entrance to the first level of this aquatic labyrinth. I didn't waste any time. Out came Gramr from its sheath, and those mermen didn't stand a chance. Sliced right through them like butter, and they never even knew what hit 'em.

Navigating this underwater cave, I switched on my chasewalking mode. You'd think I was sightseeing with the way I was gawking at the ancient wonders scattered around. There are columns, ruins, and even some majestic temples lurking in this underwater community. I figured I'd sneak through the nooks and crannies, see if there's any loot that could give me a leg up in the upcoming showdown. But wouldn't you know it, they must've shifted the good stuff elsewhere. Sneaky bastards.

And then, out of the blue, a merman shows up, yapping away in some fishy language – no pun intended. Nah, I'm just messing with you; I have no idea what it's called, but from the merman's twitchy expression, he seemed all sorts of anxious. Oh, the classic blunder – I totally forgot about those dead bodies I left lying around at the entrance. Smooth move, right? Now, the entire underwater cave's probably buzzing with the news that I'm in the house. Time to hustle and get my mission done before things get too dicey. Gotta keep my head in the game.

Slipping through that tricky third level was a breeze, and as I descended into the fourth level, I was met with a motley crew of sea monsters. Seriously, it looked like they threw a party just to stop me in my tracks. Leading the chaos was Triton, the big kahuna merman with some serious wizard vibes going on. Dude had powers that could make your head spin, and he cast a wicked spell that completely canceled out my trusty chasewalking mode. Great, now I had to switch to Plan B – the old-fashioned hard way.

Talk about a sea monster showdown – as soon as they spotted me, it was like an all-you-can-eat buffet for them. But did I back down? Hell no. I whipped out Gramr, ready to give these underwater pests a taste of their own medicine. I charged in, cutting through their ranks like a hot knife through butter. And you might be wondering how I managed to pull off that epic feat? Well, the answer's simple – it's all thanks to Gramr, my legendary sidekick! Haha! Oh boy, I went on a rampage, slashing through hundreds of these sea critters like a true warrior. Seriously, it was like a battle of epic proportions, and I ain't even kidding. Haha! But you know what happened? Most of those slimy suckers finally wised up and took a step back. Yeah, they realized they were tangling with someone who had some serious muscle behind them – that someone being me, of course. And hey, I'm not trying to sound cocky, it's just the truth, alright? Haha!

So these sea critters, they started shuffling back when Triton, Mr. Merman Sorcerer himself, started chanting like he was auditioning for a magic show. Next thing I know, frost spikes are shooting up from the ground, trying to freeze me in place. Nice try, pal. With one swift move of my Gramr, I shattered those icy daggers, proving that even spells can't mess with my speed and power. And believe me, I'm not blowing this out of proportion – it's Odin's honest truth! Haha, seriously, I'm not exaggerating.

The sea critters were probably floored by what they witnessed. I mean, who wouldn't be? One moment, I was there, and the next, I vanished like a ghost. It was like magic, only without the cheesy tricks. And before Triton could even register what was happening, his head was rolling on the floor – courtesy of yours truly. Yeah, he definitely didn't see that coming. With my job done and dusted, I slipped into ghost mode while chasewalking, disappearing from their radar. Sneaky, right?

Then, I descended into the fifth level of the underwater tunnel, and guess who was there? The Kraken, the big boss of this underwater party. But you know what? The dude didn't even bother turning around or acknowledging my presence. He knew I was there, he just didn't care. Classic villain move, right? Haha!

"Hey there, Lord Calamari! Mind if we have a little chit-chat?" I called out, keeping my tone casual.

"Oh, look who decided to waltz into my turf. Attacking my fellow sea critters, are you? You actually believe you'll leave this place in one piece? Your puny magic won't save you from my fury, you arrogant human!" He spat back, all full of himself.

"Yep, heard that one before. But just so we're clear, I'm here on business – Valhalla business. They've got it in for you, you know," I retorted, not letting his bravado get to me.

"Huh? So you're thinking you can snuff me out and your precious gods will come to your rescue? Kid, you're in for a reality check. I'm going to squash you and make fish food out of you! Oh, but maybe I'll have a taste test before that," he taunted, his confidence oozing.

Man, what a charmer this Kraken guy is, huh? Haha!

Out of nowhere, his tentacles came thrashing towards me, but I managed to dance out of their way with some slick moves. He roared in pain as three of those tentacles got the chop. And then, before I could catch a breath, one of his tentacles slammed into my feet, slamming me right into the cave wall. Ouch, that stung like crazy. And just to make things more interesting, he decided to give me a quick tour of his insides by gulping me down. Lucky for me, I clung onto Gramr for dear life. Going all ghostly, I went to town on his guts, slashing and slicing through his stomach like a whirlwind. Finally, I burst out from his back, grinning like a maniac. You should've seen the look on those sea critters' faces – total shock, like they'd just witnessed a magician pulling a rabbit out of a hat. Except it was a human and a dead Kraken.

"Hey there! I thought I'd drop by and show you what's waiting for you if you ever think of invading Hafenstadt. And oh, don't even dream of getting cozy on Hy Breasail Island either. Are we crystal clear on that?" I grinned and asked, looking all casual despite the slimy mess around me.

Well, it looks like my little monologue got through to them – they stepped back as I strolled past. Before I headed back up to the island, I decided to play a bit of explorer and see if there were any hidden nooks or crannies around. And guess what? I hit the jackpot! It was like a scene straight out of those epic bardic tales – a hidden chamber chock-full of treasure. I mean, we're talking gold, gems, and all sorts of priceless trinkets. These sea critters had been snatching this loot from merchant ships and coastal towns for centuries, and thanks to them, I was about to become the richest adventurer in town. I didn't waste a second – I whipped out my trusty magic satchel and vacuumed up all that shiny goodness. And now, with all these riches, I'm thinking of playing the stock market game. I might dive into the Avalon Stock Exchange over in Bargeldstadt or maybe snag some shares in the Scherweinst Senoirbz Corporation in Blitzmetropole. Oh, and let's not forget about government bonds and equity stakes in Zanoroz or maybe the Kaloyskie Corporation. It's time to turn this windfall into an even bigger fortune!

But let's put the treasure tales aside for now. My immediate mission is to haul my behind out of this underwater mess. These sea critters can get pretty feisty, and I'd rather not end up as their seafood special. Haha!

I managed to escape the Undersea Ruins before the sun took its leave. Thankfully, I had a stash of moth dust balls on me – one crunch later, and I was back in Hafenstadt. I crossed the road bridges back onto the main island and made a pit stop at the Absinthe Green Market. Got myself some essentials for my upcoming stint in Batavia. With my shopping done, I strolled past the League of Swordsmen's office, giving it a nod as I went by, and then found myself inside the cozy Falchion Ale Inn.

A hearty dinner of Fish and Potato chips, washed down with a couple of mugs of ale – that's how I recharged after today's crazy underwater escapade. I gotta say, it was a pretty exhausting day. Makes me wonder how Arkhenika's faring over in Batavia, not to mention my crew back at the Drunk Tikbalang Inn. As much as I'd love to just kick back and chill for a week, those deadlines from Nike are looming. Maybe a day of relaxation will suffice.

Speaking of relaxation, it feels so darn good to be back here. Hafenstadt is like my adventuring hometown, where I got my start in this wild world. Tomorrow, I'm planning to swing by the academy where I picked up some mad adventuring skills. I snagged myself a room for the night at the inn, collapsed onto the bed, and let sleep whisk me away.

The next day rolled around, and I decided to embark on a nostalgic tour of the satellite city. I retraced my steps to some old haunts – the Saint Yussaf airship, that majestic airborne vessel; the bustling Absinthe Green Market, where every shopper's delight can be found; the League of Swordsmen Headquarters, a hub for blade-wielding enthusiasts; and of course, the legendary statue of Lord Thames McOtto, watching over it all.

After the walk down memory lane, I ventured over to The Imperial Neophyte Institute, a spot that holds a special place in my heart. It's the new hotspot for adventurers in Avalon, especially the newcomers. Neophytes gotta get themselves registered here to tap into its wealth of knowledge and training. The institute's got it all – a grand hall for pomp and circumstance, a cafeteria to keep those bellies full, a dispensary to mend any scrapes and bruises, a library brimming with wisdom, and even a student lounge for some much-needed chill time.

Walking through those hallowed halls, I couldn't help but chuckle as memories flooded back. One moment that sticks out – learning the fine art of playing dead from the notorious Instructor Argielle. Man, I thought the guy was legitimately down for the count, sprawled out on the floor like a fallen hero. Turned out he was just having a nap and I was making a ruckus next to him. Classic, right? In a whirlwind of a decision, I promised a long-deceased person's ghost that I'd solve this "murder case." Haha, talk about impulsive. Then, like a champ, Argielle woke up, all groggy and asked what the commotion was about. He then bestowed upon me the skill of "staying zen amid chaos" and I perfected it through a good session of slow and steady breathing...

So there I was, trying to master the art of staying still amidst chaos, and boy, let me tell you, it felt like I was holding my breath for a solid 25 seconds. Geez, it was no joke. I finally caved and sucked in some air, relieved as heck. I mean, give me a break – that was a serious test of lung capacity! Haha, I was probably red-faced and all sweaty by the end of it.

But you know what? That skill came in handy, no kidding. I polished it up and found it a lifesaver when I was out there hunting down those weirdly named creatures like Blobs, Fettwurms, and Fuzzywabeets in Kornwelsch. Those critters were trickier than you'd think!

And then, there was Instructor Argielle, as quirky as ever. He patted me on the back, figuratively speaking, and went, "Alright, not bad at all. If you've got the patience of a saint like that, you're practically invincible. No monster can touch you. And listen up, kid, when you're all grown up and onto a different gig, you might not need this skill anymore. But don't let it gather dust – use it when you need it, no second-guessing. Now, I'm off to get some shut-eye. And trust me, you don't wanna be the one to wake me up. Yawn." Man, that guy's words, they crack me up even to this day. Haha!

Oh boy, did I learn a ton about those critters we'd go hunting for – like the infamous Blob chase. Man, those Blobs might look all squishy and adorable, but they're our go-to jellyich sources, the backbone of cooking at the Imperial Neophyte Institute. We practically had Blob hunts on the agenda every other day. And don't even get me started on Fuzzywabeets. These fluffy little creatures were like the A-listers of cuteness, hanging around near Aigleterre, always toting their stash of carrots. Talk about convenient – we'd bag some Fuzzywabeets, nab some carrots, and ta-da, instant deliciousness. You know, carrots, with all those fibrous cells and a truckload of Vitamin A and beta-carotene, are a total treat for the eyes. No kidding!

Now, Fettwurms, those were a common sight in the Empire of Avalon – your regular ol' worms, but with a dash of cute thrown in for good measure. I mean, who'd have thought a worm could be cute, right? But here's the kicker: the Imperial Neophyte Institute had a secret weapon when it came to their clothes – Fettwurm fluff. That stuff was like the golden fleece of fabrics – strong and super cozy. You'd be swathed in warmth, all thanks to these fuzzy worms. And then there were the Pupas, kind of like the middle stage for Fettwurms before they spread their wings as Mariposas, or butterflies for the less fancy term. That transformation from larva to butterfly – pure mystery. Our instructors were all poetic about it, hoping we'd all blossom into top-tier adventurers, just like Fettwurms turning into Mariposas. And speaking of those pupas, we didn't just throw them away – oh no. We put them to work, brewing up potions and weaving spells. And sometimes, we'd pawn them off to merchants, who'd probably end up selling them to eager mages.

So, picture this: Fettwurms – those little critters that seem like they're on the bottom rung of the Avalon bug ladder. They're basically the baby versions of Mariposas, those pretty butterflies everyone goes gaga for. You can spot these Fettwurms chillin' around places like Albion, Brythonia, and even a few hiding spots deep within the Labyrinth Woods. Now, here's what these munchers do all day: they're professional plant-nibblers, chowing down on whatever green stuff they can find in the field. Most of 'em are pretty chill, just going about their herbivore business, but there's a group of 'em who live in the Neophyte Ground and have developed a serious attitude problem. Maybe it's their cramped living situation or just a general grumpiness from hunger, who knows?

When these little fellas decide it's time to grow up, they whip out their Metamorphosis skill and become Pupas. And from there, they evolve into full-fledged Mariposas. These insectoids originally called the Joseon Forest home, but then for some reason, they all had a mass migration party and ended up crashing Albion and Brythonia. Maybe it's the lack of predators or the all-you-can-eat buffet of soft plants that drew them there. Problem is, they multiplied like crazy and became pests, threatening the whole ecosystem's delicate balance. These Mariposas go all-you-can-eat on grass, flowers, and shoots, becoming a walking buffet of plant destruction. They're like the party crashers that throw the whole ecosystem out of whack. Some fancy plants, like the Illusionary flower from the Schimmern Plant, are even on the endangered species list thanks to these ravenous buggers. So, the Brythonia Authority has officially declared war on the Mariposa infestation within their turf. It's like they're gearing up for the ultimate bug showdown! Let's dive into the wild world of Mariposa infestations in the outskirts of the west city. These little buggers are a real pain in the rear, and no matter how hard everyone tries, they just keep multiplying like nobody's business. Picture this: swarms of Mariposas everywhere, and it's like trying to control a party where everyone's invited and nobody's leaving.

To make matters worse, every time the Brythonia Authority decides to throw a party of their own to kick these Mariposas out, guess what happens? Yep, the bugs just teleport away like they've got their own escape plan. So, even though the big shots manage to take out a bunch of Fettwurm larvae (those are the kiddo Mariposas), the adult Mariposas just roll on in and lay more eggs, starting the whole cycle over again. It's like trying to clean your room when your sibling's just messing it up behind you. As they say, "One step forward, ten steps Mariposa!"

Remember that time when the Londinium Magistrate Office was all riled up about these bugs? Yeah, back in the day, they posted a big announcement on the Londinium mercenary board. They were all about saving the ecosystem, keeping the balance in check, and protecting Brythonia's natural beauty. They didn't mess around – when they say "extermination," they mean it! Those Mariposas weren't just chilling in the garden, they were eating scrolls at the Magician Academy! I mean, who does that? These bugs are like the unruly guests that ruin a perfectly good party.

Oh, and then there's the whole herbology adventure I had with the Therapist. She's like the herb guru, teaching me all the secrets about those Red, Blue, Green, and White Plants. I went deep into the fields, scavenging herbs like a true herbalist pro. After some magical tinkering, I managed to whip up some useful potions that I'm sure would put even the best apothecary to shame. So, amidst the chaos of Mariposas and Magician Academy snacks, I learned a thing or two about botany and potion brewing.

Nee Leonie, the shop helper, caught up with me and asked how I was holding up with the whole "learning the basics" deal. She figured I needed to up my game when it comes to shop knowledge, and honestly, she was right on the money. Avalon's got shops popping up left and right, and you've got a bunch of currencies to keep track of. So, I parked myself and gave her my full attention while she spilled the beans on how to navigate this shopping extravaganza.

We dived into the nitty-gritty of it all. She schooled me on the art of using different currencies for different things, like a true shopping maestro. It's like having a secret language that only shop-savvy folks understand. And let me tell you, she made it look like a breeze. I was a sponge, soaking up all that shop wisdom.

Then, she threw a curveball my way – a quest, if you will. I guess you could say it was a bit of a test. So, I took it on, tackled it with style, and might I add, nailed it like a pro. You see, it involved a "Poor Can," and let's just say, I got rid of it with some flair. It wasn't just about getting rid of the can; it was about the style, you know? Anyway, my efforts didn't go unnoticed, and Nee Leonie rewarded me for my shop-savvy moves. It's like I've been initiated into the secret society of shopping extraordinaires.

As our little lesson wrapped up, Nee Leonie left me with some words of wisdom that gave me all the feels. "The things I haven't told you yet, you will learn throughout your travels." It hit me right in the nostalgia. It's those little moments, those interactions with people like Nee Leonie, that make you realize how far you've come and how much more you've got to explore. Just like they say, the journey is the real treasure.

Alright, imagine this – I'm still at the academy, and out of the blue, I come across these Nekomatas. Yeah, you heard me right, cat people. Just when I thought I'd seen it all, they roll in. And if that's not enough, I meet the one and only Minhoo, along with Jiampong. Can't say I was expecting this level of mystique and excitement at school!

Now, hold on to your hats, 'cause this gets wilder. Minhoo, the coolest cat on the block, saunters in and greets me like we're old pals. And guess what? He's the top cat at the Hafenstadt branch of the Enchant Association. Oh, did I mention he's a speaking cat? Yup, you heard that right – a cat that can hold a conversation like it's nobody's business. Mind officially blown.

But here's the kicker. Minhoo's not just your run-of-the-mill chatty feline. No sir, he hails from an island called Ile de Chatonne, where cats rule the roost. A whole island of talking cats, can you believe it? Turns out, some of these kitties are bilingual pros, fluent in both cat and human tongues. And yeah, there are others who can't decide which language to stick to – a bit of a linguistic mashup, if you will.

Now, here's the scoop Minhoo shared with me. He says I should totally check out Ile de Chatonne sometime, but more importantly, he spills the beans about enchantments. Ever heard of Socket Enchantment and Hidden Enchantment? Neither had I at the time. Minhoo breaks it down for me like I'm a total newbie, which, let's face it, I totally am. So, turns out the Enchant Association is like this elite club for the enchantment-savvy folks, those who know how to sprinkle some magical goodness onto gear and weapons. The real deal, if you ask me.

Alright, gather 'round for this one. So, there's this guy, Refinery Owner Hansel – yeah, the dude who's basically spearheading the whole refining scene in Avalon. I crossed paths with him during my adventurous escapades, and let me tell you, he's all about the refinement culture. Like, really into it. And by "way back," I mean he was doing this before it became the hottest trend in town.

Picture this: Hansel's diving into the market headfirst, introducing the Avalon folks to a whole new level of making their gear stronger. And guess what? He's flying solo on the advertising front. I mean, the guy's got guts, no doubt about it.

So there I am, minding my own business, and Hansel pops the question: "Hey, you interested in some refining action?" And there I go, naively imagining it's some kind of fancy food or something. Haha, oh boy, was I off the mark! Turns out, refining is all about beefing up your gear using rare metals snagged from demonic monsters and other leftover tidbits from demon lords after that whole godly war drama.

Now, pay attention, 'cause here's the nifty part. If you refine your weapons, their attack power goes up a notch. And if you're all about defense, refining your shields is the way to go. Those shields get a boost in their defensive game, which means less damage from those pesky monsters. So, in a nutshell, refining equals strength, and who doesn't want that?

But here's the catch – refining can be a bit of a slippery slope. It's like that bag of potato chips – once you start, it's hard to stop. So yeah, I dipped my toes into the refining game, and let's just say it became a bit of an obsession. Ah, the things we adventurers get ourselves into!

Hey, let me take you on a trip down memory lane. So there's this guy, Captain Theopfeil – a real character, I tell ya. I still remember the time he strolled into Oasenstadt, my hometown, and dropped the big question: "You wanna be an adventurer?" Well, I didn't need much convincing – I was all in. Of course, I had to get the green light from my grandma first. And you know what? She gave me the nod. Can't blame her, life in Oasenstadt was pretty darn tough, especially after that Surtr fiasco.

Anyway, back to Captain Theopfeil. Picture this – we're on the move, sailing our way to Hafenstadt, and he starts chatting me up. He's all like, "Hey, had any good dreams lately?" Yeah, random icebreaker, right? Then he goes on, "We're almost at Hafenstadt. Get ready to mingle with folks, just like you're doing with me now."

He spins tales about young adventurers flocking to the Empire of Avalon, chasing their dreams. Hafenstadt, which used to be Aigleterre's satellite city, was like the haven for newbies. Fresh faces stepping into the world of adventure, that's the vibe. Captain Theopfeil's got his stories, but our talk gets cut short as we're prepping for arrival.

I remember his words: "Time to head out, champ. That exit will take you outside." He's got more wisdom to share, but first, let's land on solid ground. Once we step off the deck, he promises to spill the beans on the academy in Hafenstadt – the hub for all us newcomers. Man, I was itching to learn more. So there I was, ready to dive headfirst into this new chapter of my life. Captain Theopfeil, he sure knew how to set the stage for the adventure ahead.

Ah, those good old days with Sargenigel, the airship maestro. He spilled the beans on airship mechanics, and let me tell you, it's all about these fancy magical rune-stones that make those flying vessels work their magic. It's funny how these halls bring back all those memories. You know what they say, nostalgia hits you like a ton of bricks.

I plopped myself down in the lobby and pretty much chilled there all day long, just soaking in the vibes. Tomorrow, it's Batavia time – a whole new chapter awaits. Got a bunch of stuff piled up on my to-do list, so I need to buckle down and get things done pronto. But hey, taking a breather, having a little "me" day – that was the ticket. A day off can work wonders, lemme tell ya.

As the sun started to dip, I kicked back and caught the sunset show. And you know what? I had this golden bell and rope from the Kraken – call it souvenirs, if you will. No way I'm leaving that behind. Can't blame me for wanting a piece of that adventure to hold onto, right? So there I was, watching the colors change in the sky, giving my newfound treasures a little spin. Can't say it wasn't a good day.