Stranger in a Bar

After spotting the Hero League searching for me, I teleported myself to another city completely. The Eric Barnes, who's memories I had stolen, had attended college in Brightton Bay, where all of the greatest minds of Ostror gather to learn. If I truly wanted to learn about this new world, there would be no better place to start.

The city of Brightton Bay is a marvel of modern academia, a sprawling metropolis built around the glistening waters of Shimmering Bay. Designed from the ground up as a university city, Brightton Bay seamlessly integrates cutting-edge research, education, and urban life. Towering glass-and-steel structures house state-of-the-art lecture halls, laboratories, and libraries, while lush green spaces and waterfront promenades provide a serene backdrop for intellectual pursuits. The entire city pulses with the energy of students, scholars, and innovators, all drawn to its unique fusion of knowledge and community.

At the heart of Brightton Bay lies the Grand Nexus, a central hub where disciplines intersect—engineers collaborate with artists, biologists exchange ideas with philosophers, and entrepreneurs refine their visions with economists. Autonomous trams and eco-friendly ferries glide through the city, ensuring seamless mobility between the various university districts. The Skyward Spires, a collection of futuristic towers, serve as both research facilities and student housing, offering panoramic views of the bay where the sunlight dances across the waves in iridescent hues.

The city thrives on a culture of curiosity and collaboration. Cafés double as open forums for debate, and every corner brims with interactive digital displays showcasing the latest breakthroughs in science and humanities. Beneath the surface, a vast network of AI-driven data archives supports the university's research, making knowledge instantly accessible to all residents. By night, the city's waterfront comes alive with student-led performances, projection art on the cliffs, and gatherings where ideas flow as freely as the tides.

I appeared on the cliffs overlooking the city in a remote area. I knew from the memories that Brightton had security cameras and other surveillance equipment. While I was not worried about them discovering me, I did not want to expose myself so soon, and suddenly appearing in the heart of the city would certainly do that; after all, I had no idea if the Demon Lord had already joined this world. Scanning the ground below, I found no one around, so I stepped off the cliff and let myself fall a hundred meters or so, landing with a flip gracefully onto my feet.

There were trees near where I landed, but also a path that ran along the edge of the cliff. I followed it for a minute or two before it opened up into a large, artificially made clearing with a sandy field that had dozens of stone benches that were arranged in a semi-circle towards the cliff face. The sandy field was ringed in by gray stones, and a stone paved road led back to the circle, branching off from the circle.

I slowly made my way towards the city, not in any hurry. With the bright sun in the sky and the gentle ocean breeze, the temperature was slightly warm, but it would be perfect for activities on the water. Looking out at the bay, there were over a dozen small ships and other recreational vehicles on the water, proving my opinion that the weather was great.

Eventually, I reached the city proper and the road beneath my feet became paved concrete. There was no type of security measure or someone checking IDs; just an open road with people, and the rare car, moving about the streets. I took in the sights and architecture as I wandered around the university-city with no destination in mind.

Unsurprisingly, I drifted towards the bay and found several bars, clubs, and fancy restaurants. With the sun going down, I decided to treat myself to a nice meal at one of the restaurants. The restaurant I chose sat right at the water's edge; a sleek, modern masterpiece of glass and steel that seemed to float above the waves. Floor-to-ceiling windows offered an unobstructed view of the shimmering ocean, where the setting sun cast golden streaks across the surface. Inside, the atmosphere was refined yet inviting, with soft lighting, minimalist décor, and an open-concept design that let the fresh sea air drift through. Elegant tables were set with crisp white linens, polished silverware, and delicate glassware that caught the glow of flickering candlelight. The gentle hum of conversation mixed with the rhythmic crash of waves just beyond the deck, creating an ambiance that was both sophisticated and soothing.

The menu was a celebration of the ocean's finest offerings—delicately plated oysters on beds of crushed ice, buttery lobster tail drizzled with herb-infused sauces, and expertly seared scallops that melted with each bite. The open kitchen allowed diners to watch as chefs artfully prepared each dish, their movements precise and effortless. Fresh herbs and citrus scents filled the air as plates were delivered with impeccable timing, accompanied by carefully selected wines that enhanced every flavor. Whether guests were indulging in a multi-course tasting menu or simply enjoying a chilled seafood tower with a cocktail in hand, the experience was nothing short of exquisite... a perfect fusion of modern elegance and the timeless beauty of the sea.

I ordered one of their arranged dinners which included a lobster tail, shrimp, scallops, and a bottle of white wine. The food was good, especially for Mortals, and the wine was even better, so I made a point of getting the name and vineyard to purchase in the future. After I paid for my meal, I left the restaurant and wandered around a bit more before something caught my eye.

She had long, black hair that fell straight down her back, smooth and well-kept, with just a little shine when the light hit it right. Her green eyes were sharp and bright, standing out against her fair skin, but they didn't give much away—just a calm, steady look, like she was always thinking about something. Her face was well-proportioned, with high cheekbones and a defined jawline, but not in a way that felt intimidating. She was pretty, no doubt, but it was the kind of beauty that didn't demand attention—it was just there, effortless.

Her lips were painted a deep red, adding a bit of contrast to her otherwise simple look. She dressed neatly, nothing too flashy, just enough to look put-together without seeming like she was trying too hard. There was a quiet confidence in the way she carried herself, like she was comfortable in her own skin, but she wasn't the type to stand out in a crowd unless you were really paying attention. If anything, she had a natural, understated beauty, one that did not need any extra effort to make an impression.

As she ducked into one of the bars, I smiled to myself and followed after her. The bar had a warm, laid-back feel, the kind of place where people came to unwind rather than impress. The wooden aesthetic gave it a rustic charm—aged oak floors, a long polished bar counter, and shelves lined with an eclectic mix of bottles, their labels worn from years of use. Dim lighting cast a soft glow over the space, and the air smelled of aged whiskey, fresh citrus, and the faint, lingering scent of old wood, like the place had stories to tell.

Scattered throughout were sturdy wooden tables and chairs, all slightly mismatched but fitting together perfectly in their own way. Some tables bore the marks of countless drinks set down over the years, rings and scratches telling silent tales of past conversations. In the corner, a small stage held a local band playing an easygoing tune, not too loud, just the kind of music that blended into the atmosphere, setting the perfect backdrop for a night of quiet conversation and slow sips. The crowd was relaxed, a mix of regulars and newcomers, all here for the same reason: Good drinks, good company, and a place that felt like home, even if just for a little while.

The young woman who caught my eye ordered herself a drink at the bar then went to sit near the band. I ordered one myself and sat at the corner of the bar, so that I could see her out of the corner of my eye. As I sipped on my drink, I focused on her and opened my mental shields allowing me to read her surface thoughts. I was not probing her memories as I had done to that man who bumped into me when I first arrived, but rather, I was getting a sense of her character.

She was an intelligent, confident woman with a taste for mischief with those she was closest to. She was a bio-engineering student here at the university and working on her thesis device for her doctoral; her mind constantly jumping between ideas and methods for the cybernetic device despite coming here to relax. Her ex was in the band that was playing, who had cheated on her, yet part of her wanted her back. Which meant two things, she was single and into women, making things much easier for me.

About ten minutes later, she had finished her drink, and I subtly influenced her to come near me when she wanted another one. Manipulation? Perhaps, but what god or goddess did not use their powers on Mortals? I was not going to trick her into my bed, just into meeting me.

"You look like you have great taste. What are you drinking? This one didn't hit the spot," I asked, giving her a light smile, as she joined me at the bar, waiting for one of the bartenders' attention.

"That's a wea..." she started, but her words died away when she looked at me.

I know I stand out... how could I not? My hair was a sharp, silvery white, cut short enough to be effortless but just long enough to turn heads. It catches the light when I move, like steel in motion. My eyes were crystal blue, clear and piercing, which people get lost in, if they're not careful. I've seen it happen. My tan skin only makes them pop more, a deep golden hue that tells stories of sun, sweat, and strength. I had broad shoulders, toned arms, a body sculpted by effort, having earned multiple martial godhoods.

I chuckled lightly, unashamed, and agreed, "It's not my best line, but I'm a little rusty. Can I make it up to you by buying you a drink?"

"Uh... sure," she replied softly.

I motioned to the bartender who came over quickly.

"How can I help you?" he asked.

"So, what's your poison?" I asked.

"Purple Sunset," she replied.

"Two Purple Sunsets on my tab," I said to the bartender, who quickly nodded and started making our drinks. "My name is Asynia Zarra, and yours?"

"Sarah, Sarah Reed. What... um, brings you out here?" she asked in return.

"I'm here to visit some old friends, but got in late, so I decided that I'd see them in the morning and enjoy a few drinks before I try to find a hotel for the night," I replied.

"Oh, there are several large hotels near the main port a few blocks away. The walk should be nice now that the sun is down," she said.

"Is that an offer to be my guide?" I teased with a light smirk.

Before she could respond, the bartender returned with our drinks, a light purple to indigo three-layered drink. They were dressed with a long skewer of sulan berries which Sarah used to stir the mixture, making the liquid shimmer in the dim lighting. I copied her actions, and I offered my cup before I took a sip. She hesitated for a moment, but clinked her cup with my own, and we both took a sip.

"Mmm, it's delicious," I praised and picked up the skewer to eat one of the sulan berries. "The tart berries balance the citrus notes well."

She swallowed, hiding it behind a drink that she did not take, and replied, "I'm glad you like it."

"I'm not sure if you're here with someone, or if I'm being too forward, but I'd love to chat with you some more. If you know where the hotels are off the top of your head, you must know the city well. I'm sure there are things you could recommend for me to see while I'm here," I propositioned.

"Uh, sure," she hesitated, glancing at the stage then the back of the bar. "It looks like there are some tables in the back."

"Sounds good to me," I replied with a smile.

We grabbed our drinks and moved over to the tables she suggested. I asked her about the city, places to see and things to do, keeping the mood light. We sipped on our drinks slowly as we chatted about her life while I deflected any about my own.

Other than being wealthy, I had no identity, no history. In a modern world like this one, that would draw a lot of attention once anyone investigated me. So, in an unfamiliar world, where better to learn how to navigate than from some of the brightest minds in the world. I would read a few minds, give them a Thread of Inspiration to help them complete their work faster; balancing the Karmic Scale by sacrificing a speck of my soul for the knowledge I gained.

Once I learned how to properly fake my past, I would need to start, or take over, a business to further cement my identity. One of the benefits of a world of superheroes and villains was that there was bound to be Karmic friendly choices to replace. While I was here, I would also catch up on their sciences and see how they differed from my own... Granted, I was not much of a scientist before the Dungeon break, more of a couch potato; it was my talent with golems that saved my life back then.

"So, would you be willing to show me to those hotels you mentioned?" I asked after I finished the last berry of my second drink. "That is, if you don't have any urgent matters. I would never want to impose."

"Oh, really?" she remarked with surprise.

"Sure, I would hate to get lost in a new city now that it's dark," I chuckled with a teasing smile.

Sarah brushed a few strands of her hair behind her ear with a light blush creeping up her cheeks. "I have nothing pressing," she replied, trying to hide some of her nervousness.

"Then let me close my tab and we can go," I said as I stood up.

"Alright," she agreed with a smile.

I walked back over to the bar and waved down the bartender with magical ease. As I left a ridiculously high tip on the receipt, I noticed that Sarah's ex was at the bar and looking me over like I was her next conquest. I shot her a smirk before turning away and heading back to Sarah. She did not confront us in the bar or follow us, but she did watch the two of us leave, chatting together. I might have felt bad if the jealousy was directed at me, but it was solely at Sarah, spelling out her feelings clearly.

Sarah had missed the slight exchange between her ex and myself, which I did not reveal. Instead, we headed out into the cool breeze of the night and the glow of the LED lights on the city streets. We talked and she pointed out a few places as she guided us to Hotel Avenue, where I was naturally drawn to the nicest and largest.

The Horizon Institute Hotel stands proudly at the very edge of the coastal skyline, where the city's stretch of luxury accommodations meets the open sea. A vision of modern elegance fused with cutting-edge technology that was designed for scholars, innovators, and elite guests, the hotel blends its commitment to education with the highest standard of comfort. Floor-to-ceiling smart glass windows adjust to the light, providing breathtaking panoramic views of the ocean, while natural wood accents and airy color palettes create an atmosphere that is both sophisticated and inviting.

The entry hall is a masterpiece of warmth and innovation. Light wood beams arch across the high ceilings, accentuated by soft, indirect lighting that mimics the golden glow of a sunrise. Guests are greeted by concierge staff who specialize in accommodating the world's leading academics and thinkers, ensuring that every need is met with precision. One side was designed for guests coming and going, with approachable staff waiting to help while the other side featured a sleek lounge where professionals unwind, discussing ideas over sustainably crafted cocktails and artisanal coffee blends.

I drifted over to an older woman who I gleamed was a manager from someone's mind. I planted a small memory of my reservation of the penthouse suite, so she approached us with a warm smile.

"Miss Zarra, you've finally arrived. Your assistant said you arrived this afternoon... I was beginning to wonder if you were lost," the manager said, laying it on thicker than I had intended, but it seemed that a certain level of identity was needed to book the room.

"I was just taking in the sights," I replied.

"Of course. I hope our fair city is to your liking," she said, handing me a dark silver card.

"It is. Could you have a bottle of Bellemonte-Soir Chardonnay sent up? I'm open to any year," I requested while giving her a subtle gesture to my companion.

"Right away," she agreed with a nod then hurried away.

I sighed and turned back to Sarah, tapping the card on my hand lightly, asking, "Have I scared you off?"

"Well, um... that was not the reception that I was expecting. Who are you?" she asked.

"My identity is a bit special, let's say," I chuckled with shrug. "It's no big deal if you want to leave things here. Maybe we can do dinner tomorrow? I saw a Shi-Tonnu restaurant not far from here."

She chuckled, shaking her head lightly trying to hide her embarrassment. "I have plans tomorrow... but I'm free the day after."

"Seven in the evening then, at Thalassa's Flame," I replied. "I'll be waiting out front for you."

"You don't need to do that."

"It's no trouble," I assured her, knowing it would make her more reassured when she saw me. "Good night, Sarah."

"Good night, Asynia," she said with a soft smile.

I watched her walk away a bit before I turned and headed for the elevator. Tapping the card on the panel, the doors chimed before they opened, and I stepped in. There was no button for me to press, but the glass elevator took off to the top floor while showing a sliver of the bay.

The doors of the elevator opened to a large suite that sat above the city like an observatory, its expansive windows framed the moon and stars as they reflected over the rolling waves of the bay. The suite boasted an ultra-luxurious design, voice-activated climate and ambiance control, a private infinity terrace, and a library filled with first-edition classics and digital masterpieces alike. The bathroom, an oasis of its own, featured a rainfall shower with smart temperature control and a soaking tub set against a backdrop of twinkling city lights.

The bedroom was a serene sanctuary floating above the city, wrapped in the glow of moonlight and the soft shimmer of distant skyscrapers. One wall is entirely glass, offering a breathtaking dual view, on one side, the vast bay stretches endlessly, the water reflecting the stars in a quiet dance; on the other, the city hums with life, its skyline a constellation of twinkling lights. At the center of the room sits a massive, luxurious bed, its frame seamlessly integrated into the sleek, modern design. The bedding is impossibly soft, a blend of high-tech temperature-regulating fabric that always feels just right. Subtle recessed lighting lines the ceiling, adjusting in color and warmth to match the ambiance of the night, while a voice-activated interface allows the guest to set the perfect mood with a simple command. The gentle sound of the waves drifting in from the bay, blending with the distant hum of the metropolis, creating an atmosphere of pure, effortless indulgence.

Sadly, I did not have the time for any of that. Although the suite was often empty, my usage would draw some suspicion, so I needed to handle my identity sooner rather than later. There was a long night ahead of me learning everything that I would need to make it believable... this is what I get for wanting to show off.