Trader Jim's

A Litrpg Merchant Tale

Jason Hill

Copyright © 2021 Jason Hill

All rights reserved

The characters and events portrayed in this book are fictitious. Any similarity to real persons, living or dead, is coincidental and not intended by the author.

No part of this book may be reproduced, or stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without express written permission of the publisher.

ISBN-13: 9781234567890
ISBN-10: 1477123456

Cover design by: Mark (Adobe Stock)
Library of Congress Control Number: 2018675309
Printed in the United States of America

For my mom

Contents

Title Page

Copyright

Dedication

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Chapter 20

Chapter 21

Chapter 22

Chapter 23

Chapter 24

Chapter 25

Chapter 26

Chapter 27

Chapter 28

Chapter 29

Chapter 30

Chapter 31

Chapter 32

Chapter 33

Chapter 34

Chapter 35

Chapter 36

Chapter 37

Chapter 38

Chapter 39

Chapter 40

Chapter 41

Chapter 42

Chapter 43

Chapter 44

Chapter 45

Chapter 46

Chapter 47

Chapter 48

Chapter 49

Chapter 50

Chapter 51

Chapter 52

Chapter 53

Chapter 54

Chapter 55

Chapter 56

Chapter 57

Chapter 58

Chapter 59

Chapter 60

Chapter 61

Chapter 62

Chapter 63

Chapter 64

Chapter 65

Chapter 66

Chapter 67

Chapter 68

Chapter 69

Chapter 70

Chapter 71

Chapter 72

Chapter 73

Chapter 74

Chapter 75

Chapter 76

Chapter 77

Chapter 78

Chapter 79

Chapter 80

Chapter 81

Chapter 82

Chapter 83

Chapter 84

Chapter 85

Chapter 86

Chapter 87

Chapter 88

Chapter 89

Chapter 90

Chapter 91

Chapter 92

Chapter 93

Chapter 94

Chapter 95

Chapter 96

Chapter 97

Chapter 98

Chapter 99

Chapter 100

Chapter 101

Chapter 102

Chapter 103

Chapter 105

Chapter 106

Chapter 107

Chapter 109

Chapter 110

Chapter 111

Chapter 113

Chapter 114

Chapter 115

Chapter 116

Chapter 117

Chapter 118

Chapter 119

Chapter 120

Chapter 122

Chapter 123

Chapter 124

Chapter 125

Chapter 126

Chapter 127

Bonus Tales

About The Author

Books By This Author

Prologue

“Merchant, what do you have?”

“My name is Jim, but most folks call me…Jim,” the merchant answered the warrior that had stopped him. Jim used Inspect on the orc warrior. Kaldor was a level five. Jim was barely level two.

“I never asked for your name.”

“Never hurts to make introductions.”

“I’m in a hurry. Just show me what you have.”

“Fine. I have a few minor mana and healing potions for sale. Three of each in fact. I also have some rope,” Jim answered as he lowered his pack. After a moment, he held up a wineskin. “I also have some wine. All are fairly priced. Three silvers for each potion. Five coppers for the rope and three coppers for the wineskin. You won’t find a better deal outside a village.”

“Looks like you have a bedroll, pan, and some cooking utensils too.”

“Those and what food I have are for me and not for sale.”

“We’ll take it all.”

“That’s great! That’ll be…18 silver and five coppers. I’ll throw in the wine for free.”

The warrior laughed. “That’s not bad, but we want everything including your bedroll, food, cooking supplies, and coin.”

“We?” Jim asked. Jim started to have a bad feeling about this. He was confident the warrior could run him down. He had put several points into stamina, but orcs were known for their stamina. Jim had put most of his points into his charisma and luck. “There is just the two of us.”

“Boys, why don’t you come on out and introduce yourselves to Jim,” Kaldor called out. Four more people exited the surrounding trees. Jim turned in a circle and used Inspect on each. Taven was a dual welding elf rogue. Cain was a dwarf warrior. Grim, a goblin shaman. And the last was an elven archer named Robin. He even had a hood. The skill also revealed that all were level five too. Yep, he was boned. Finding bandits shouldn’t have been a surprise, yet it was. “As you see, you’re surrounded and we’re all higher rank too. Give us your stuff and we’ll let you live.”

“Let’s just kill him,” Grim said. “I could try and turn his corpse into a zombie!”

“Don’t be like that Grim. If we let him live, he can donate to us again the next time he comes through,” Cain countered.

“I like that idea,” Taven agreed. “The more donations these plebs give us the quicker we can get some good gear.”

“We could just enslave him,” Grim offered to his group.

“Robin?”

“Doesn’t matter to me. We need to hurry though.”

“You know how I feel about slavery Grim. The only reason I’m free is that fool I had been enslaved by was eaten by giant spiders and I was able to escape. We’re not enslaving him.”

“Fine. Do whatever and let’s go.”

“Looks like you get to live merchant. Drop your stuff and go,” Kaldor ordered. Jim complied and regretted choosing to be a merchant.

“Happy?”

“Thrilled. Now get lost.”

“Alright,” Jim agreed and turned back towards Rock Hope, the starting village in this region. He had gone 50 feet when an arrow hit him between the shoulder blades causing Jim to fall face first.

“I love Powershot!” Robin exclaimed. Not only had the skill taken half of Jim’s health, but it had stunned him as well. Jim heard the bandits’ approach. “Don’t forget to check his boots. He might have tried to hide some coin in them.”

“Too bad!” Cain exclaimed as he swung his hammer down onto Jim’s head. The world turned red and then faded to black.

*

{You have been killed. Since you have no coin, one level has been removed in lieu of payment. You will be resurrected at the nearest temple and your new level will be 1 if you choose to resurrect. Do you wish to resurrect? Y/N}

Chapter 1

A day earlier

Jim waited for his pod to finish the download. FantasLife was the newest VR game and it promised to be somewhat different than the ones that had come before. In truth the game promised to be more of a life sim. You could do anything in FantasLife that you could in real life, except use technology. Magic replaced tech. Then there was the fantasy monsters and races.

Jim had grown tired of the usual kill or be killed of the popular games and was looking for something new. Being able to do anything in a game had promise, especially being able to do something different. Jim pulled up the game’s site and looked over the character creation options.

The usual race options were there, elves, trolls, dwarves, goblins, orcs, and humans. Users can also take on any role they wish such as fighters, knights, mages, shamans, black smiths, tavern keepers, cooks, prostitutes, merchants, slavers, and even hermits. That last option was quite different, but not what Jim was after. Same for any of the combat roles.

Being a smith or enchanter was a good option but didn’t appeal to him as most people that opted for non-combat roles would probably choose them. Tavern and inn keepers probably would be the next most popular. Slavers? Yeah, not happening. But it was interesting that slavery was part of the game. Jim decided to give the slave class a try on a whim. Being this game’s Spartacus and leading a revolt would be awesome! Unlike the real Spartacus, Jim just had to make sure he lived after his revolt. Jim read the description:

{Slaves are the backbone of the working class of FantasLife. All but the poorest have at least one. From fighting as gladiators to digging latrines, slaves do it all. Freedom is only a dream. Pain, suffering, and hard work is the reality. Generally poor health is also part of a slave’s life. The biggest advantages slaves have is that they can be any other class as a subclass and learn new skills faster than all others. Slaves suffer a charisma penalty due to their general poor health and grime covered bodies.}

Jim liked the idea of the class suffered penalties to health and charisma. That would up the challenge, but with the right race, they could be offset. At least he hoped that was the case.

Jim turned his attention to the races. Most had higher physical stats than humans and all received some sort of bonus to those stats. Even goblins were quicker than humans, though they had fewer hit points. Dwarves were powerful with a lot of hit points but could not do magic outside of smithing. They made decent merchants or innkeepers as they started out with a fairly high charisma rating. Dwarves’ physical stats made them excellent fighters and guards. This made dwarves a maybe.

Elves seemed to be at the peak of the physical stats. Elves were quick, fast, had fairly high endurance, and decent hit points. Elves also had the highest mana pools and high charisma. Orcs were the same except they had low charisma. Jim dismissed orcs as a choice and added elves to his maybe list. Goblins were a much weaker version of orcs but had higher mana pools and were quicker. Goblins were another no for Jim. Trolls were big, powerful, resistant to all magic attacks, had no magic of their own, but fast regeneration. Exceptionally low charisma scores as well. Another no. If Jim wanted to be a fighter, orcs and trolls would be at the top of his list along with dwarves. Humans were sort boring in comparison and seemed to be average at everything stat wise. Humans did have the highest charisma score and he was looking for a challenge. Human it was then.

Jim created an account and started creating his character. The website informed users that characters created here would be imported into the game. Once in the game, physical appearances could be finetuned. Jim’s phone rang and he checked the caller ID.

“Hey Billy,” Jim greeted his friend.

“What’s up man?”

“Not much. Just creating a character.”

“So, you did buy FantasLife”

“Yeah.”

“Me too. Just waiting for the download to finish.”

“Same.”

“I’m going to wait until the download is finished to create a character.”

“Yeah, but you can do it on the website and the game will import the character once you sign in.”

“Yeah, but I can wait.”

“I’m going to do something different this time.”

“Oh? Going to play as a girl character?”

“Tempting, but no.”

“Let me pull up the character options and see if I can guess what you are going to do.”

“Alright,” Jim replied. “You won’t guess the right answer though.”

“We’ll see. You’re going for a troll berserker.”

“No.”

“Dwarf blacksmith”

“Nope.”

“Orc commander?”

“No way.”

“Goblin shaman?”

“Nope.”

“Elven mage and prostitute combo class?”

“That’s not even an option!”

“Human priest?”

“Give it up.”

“Fine,” Billy agreed. “I’m thinking orc fighter to start. Those are some nice starting stats.”

“Yeah, they are.”

“Are you going to tell me what you’re going to do or not?”

“I’m going human slave.”

“What? Why would you do that?”

“It’s different and challenging. Besides, I’m looking forward to becoming Spartacus and leading a slave revolt. Setting the rest of the slaves free and then leading that army will be awesome!”

“That’s sort of lame.”

“Maybe, but I want to do something I haven’t ever done before.”

“Prostitute is something you’ve never done before, and I don’t see you wanting to do that. Or do you?”

“Don’t joke like that,” Jim chided. “Have you picked a starting point at least?”

“According to the site, people in the eastern US will start at Northern Spring. All of our usual group is in the southeast, so we’ll be there.

“Works for me. I’m going to go and get something to eat while this download finishes.”

“Alright. I’ll let the others know your plans. My download just finished, so I’m going to create a character and dive in. See ya in the game!”

“Thirty more minutes for the download. That is one huge file. That gives me enough time to make a pizza and enjoy it though,” Jim muttered to himself as he put his phone in his pocket and made his way to his kitchen. “I never finished setting up my character. I’ll do it after I eat.”

Chapter 2

Two hours later Jim was finally able to enter his pod and log into FantasLife. The character creator picked up with the blank slate he had left. That was nice, but sort of pointless since all it had was his race and class. The game had an option to base the player character off their real selves.

“Why not?” Jim asked himself and selected that option. Jim decided to add longer hair and increased the muscle mass a little. Instead of his normal skinny self, Jim’s character looked more like a competitive diver. “That’ll work. Now time for allocation.”

There wasn’t as many stats as Jim assumed there would be. {Strength-Endurance-Dexterity-Charisma-Intelligence-Wisdom-Luck} As a human, each category had a base of 5 except for Charisma. It was 8 to start. Jim had 10 stat points to invest. Jim checked the descriptions of the categories. All of the stats were important to certain degrees.

{

Strength governs how much a player can carry as well as how hard they could hit.

Endurance governs how long a character can sprint, walk, or perform other physical activities.

Dexterity governs how agile a character is.

Charisma governs how much a character is liked.

Intelligence governs how quick a character learns and how large their mana pool is.

Wisdom governs how quickly mana regenerates and a character’s ability to haggle.

Luck governs random chance. Higher luck reflects a chance of something good happening. Lower luck reflects a chance of something bad happening. Example: Wandering a forest and finding a treasure chest vs a pack of wolves.

}

Luck seemed to be the biggest difference between FantasLife and most games Jim had played. Then again, it was sort of like those old JRPGs from bygone days that had a lot of random encounters. Jim decided to dump two points into strength, endurance, intelligence, and luck. He put a point each into dexterity and wisdom.

{Strength-7, Endurance-7, Dexterity-6, Charisma-8, Intelligence-7, Wisdom-6, Luck-7}

“Not bad. Maybe I should take the two points from luck and put them into endurance and strength,” Jim muttered to himself. “Nah. That should work nicely and offset the penalties.”

Jim accepted his choices and went to the skills screen. Unlike other games, FantasLife assigned two default skills depending on class choice. Jim started reading the information and felt a sharp pain in his head, things went dark, and he knew no more.

*

Jim woke up to find himself in a dark void. “What is going on? Why can’t I see?”

“Greeting’s mortal. You have been chosen to help a great wrong. I have seen into your mind and your bravery and desire to free your fellow slaves is the sort of courage I am looking for,” a booming voice announced from the darkness.

“Wait? Fellow slaves? Who are you? Where am I?”

“Yes! Your mind was filled with images of suffering and how you wanted to liberate your fellows.”

“That was a fantasy! I’m no slave!” Jim exclaimed. Well, maybe he was sort of a slave as was anyone else working a dead-end job, but that was beside the point.

“Silence!” the voice boomed. Jim felt pain as he whatever the voice was shifted through his thoughts and memories. “I see that I have made a mistake.”

“You could have asked, and I would have told you that. In fact, I did!”

“You are beginning to try my patience mortal. I am Anu and this is the first mistake I have made.”

“Ok. How about sending me home and we can forget about your mistake?”

“That is not possible. So, I will still send you to Stormgion as I planned. Instead of putting you in the position I had planned, I will release you and let you live life as best you can instead.”

“That’s not fair!”

“Perhaps not, but it is the best I can do. Sending you back to earth is just not possible for another thousand years. Jim, you will not live that long.”

“What is this Stormgion?”

“It is a world remarkably like earth. The biggest difference is what you call fantasy creatures live there, there is no modern technology, and magic exists. You may enjoy your new life there as there are stats and levels like this game in your memory.”

“You mean elves, dwarves, and such? Is the world medieval?”

“Correct, though it is probably closer to what you would call classic antiquity more so than medieval.”

“No cellphones or pizza?”

“Correct again.”

“Will I be able to do magic?”

“No. Earth does not have magic, so you will not have magic on Stormgion.”

“That sucks.”

“Lots of people cannot do magic on Stormgion and thrive. You will be able to as well if you apply yourself.”

“You sound like a high school guidance counselor.”

“Do not insult me, Jim,” Anu warned. Jim felt terrified as the void became darker.

“Sorry,” Jim apologized. “Is there anything else you can do for me?”

“You dare ask for a boon?”

“Yes. You did take me from my world.”

“So be it. I will give you a similar interface and system to the game you were playing. It will allow you to grow more powerful and thrive on Stormgion. You will live and resurrect at temples if you die as long as you have levels or coin to pay the price.”

“I’ll be immortal?”

“No. As I said as long as you can afford to pay the price or choose to pay it, you will live.”

“You mean the choice is mine and there might come a point that I choose not to continue living?”

“Yes. Not every being can watch their friends and loved ones die repeatedly.

Chapter 3

Darkness enveloped Jim once more and he felt he was moving forward at a tremendous speed, but there was no light. A sudden stop a short time later and Jim was sitting on a solid surface. Jim looked around. His vision could not penetrate the darkness. A moment later and Jim felt grass under his hands. Jim looked up and soon enough stars and two moons appeared as he watched the sky. Jim wasn’t sure how long he sat there, but after a while he noticed the sky getting brighter and the first rays of sunshine on the horizon. Jim was on a hill and could see farmland around him. A stream cut between two fields and led past a farmhouse and barn to a village.

Jim noticed he had a HUD. That was sweet! His HUD just showed a compass and a mostly shaded out map that seemed to only show what he could see. With no other clue about what to do, Jim decided to head to the village. Before he could take a step, a message screen popped up.

{

Anu has bestowed additional gifts upon you. As you have discovered, Anu has given you an interface like one of your videogames and all languages will be spoken and understood as English by you. Others will understand you in their languages. Anu has also kindly given you two free skills to help you get started in your new world. The first skill is called Inspect.

Inspect gives information about items, monsters, and characters in the world. The more it is used, the more the skill will reveal over time. This is an active skill which means you must choose to use it.

The second skill is called Haggling. Haggling is one’s ability to negotiate a deal. The higher one’s haggling ability is the less one pays for goods and services and the more one is paid for goods and services up to 25%. This is a passive skill which means it is always working when dealing with others.

Haggling may be replaced with the Bartering skill. Bartering allows for up to 50% better prices.

Other skills may be learned through books or instructors.

}

Jim tried Inspect on trees and whatever else he could see around him. It just told him what things are and labeled them, such as labeling a tree a tree. He also noticed he was wearing coarse brown pants and shirt instead of the jeans and t-shirt he had on when he was abducted. The boots he had on weren’t bad. Inspect showed the items to be common clothes. Jim figured it would be handy just like in games once he came across people. Jim checked his stats screen. The same stats from FantasLife were listed:

{Strength-Endurance-Dexterity-Charisma-Intelligence-Wisdom-Luck}

Seemed the deity or whatever Anu was had ripped the game off. His new system even had the same descriptions for the stats, though they were worded a little differently.

{

Strength governs how much you can carry as well as how hard you can hit.

Endurance governs how long you can sprint and how many hit points you have.

Dexterity governs how agile you are.

Charisma governs how much you are liked.

Intelligence governs how quick you can learn and how large your mana pool is.

Wisdom governs how quickly mana regenerates and your ability to haggle.

Luck governs random chance. Higher luck reflects a chance of something good happening. Lower luck reflects a chance of something bad happening. Example: Wandering a forest and finding a treasure chest vs a pack of wolves.

}

He was still human according to his information and Anu had never offered to change his race. Just like the game, Jim had high charisma. The rest of the stats were set to five. Jim had 10 points to allocate. Jim thought about adding more points to strength and endurance, but since he didn’t have to worry about dying unless he didn’t have coin or levels, he decided to put the majority of his points in the nonphysical stats. Being able to level quickly or being able to find ways to make money faster would help him more in the long run than a quick boost to his physical body or health. If there are mages and enchanters, then he could possibly recreate some earth tech with magic. Having good luck never hurt either.

{Strength-6, Endurance-6, Dexterity-6, Charisma-8, Intelligence-8, Wisdom-7, Luck-7}

Jim had to cross the farm to get to the village. His path took him close to the farmhouse and barn. Jim had the sudden fear the farmer would take exception to his trespassing. He was sure he could punch or kick to defend himself if needed but didn’t think it would do much good. He would have to hope his charisma was high enough to get him out of any potential trouble if confronted. Jim was just passing the barn when a voice called out.

“What are you doing on my land?”

Jim turned to the sound of the voice and saw a man standing in the doorway of the barn holding a pitchfork. Jim used Inspect the man.

{Farmer Fred Level 3}

“I was up on the hill there,” Jim began while turning to point back where he arrived at. Fred nodded along. “And I decided to head into the village.”

“Newcomer, eh?” the farmer asked. He noted the basic clothing the other man wore and saw he had nothing else. No ring, no coin purse, nothing. He felt pity for the lad.

“Yes.”

“What’s your name lad?”

“Jim.”

“I’m Fred. Most folks call me Farmer Fred since I am a farmer.”

“Nice to meet you.”

“We don’t get many newcomers around these parts,” Fred stated. He pulled on his beard in thought. “Jim, since you are here and I am in need of some help, I have a proposition for you.”

“What kind of proposition. I hope it is not killing rabbits or something like that.”

“Ha! Why would I ask you to do something like that? You don’t even have a knife.”

“It’s a popular first quest in games,” Jim muttered.

“What’s that you’re muttering boy? I ain’t got time for nonsense,” Fred replied. “I need help harvesting my corn. Think you can help do that?”

“Probably. What does it pay?”

“I don’t have the coin to pay you. But I can give you a portion of the corn you harvest in exchange for your labor,” Fred offered. “How does that sound?”

{You have been offered a repeatable task. Help Farmer Fred harvest his corn. Fill 10 bushels. Reward: Variable}

“What is a bushel?”

Fred sighed. He pointed to a stack of baskets just outside of the barn. “What are they teaching you kids these days? A bushel is one of those baskets.”

“What do I get for 10 bushels?”

“I’ll give you half a bushel of corn for every 10 you fill.”

Jim recognized that this was an opportunity to try his Haggling skill. “Make it 2 bushels for every 10 and you have a deal.”

“Boy, what kind of idiot do you think I am? I can’t possibly give you more than 1 bushel for every 10.”

“That’s still a lot of work for little reward. I’ll do it for 1 and a half bushels for every 10 I harvest.”

“I could live with that since I need to get the crop in, even if my wife won’t be happy. I have a counter offer though.”

“I’m listening.”

“You don’t have anything on you except the clothes you are wearing. For 25 bushels, I’ll give you 2 bushels and an old Traveler’s Pack I have.”

“What is a Traveler’s Pack?”

“A backpack that you can store things in. They are light, durable, and perfect for traveling. Hence the name.”

“Make it 3 bushels and the Traveler’s Pack and you have a deal,” Jim countered and stuck out his hand. Unlike in games, he had no inventory space. So, the pack would be very helpful.

“Nope. The pack and 2 bushels are my final offer.”

“Alright,” Jim conceded. He offered Fred his own. The farmer took it. After shaking hands, Jim’s HUD showed a new prompt.

{Congratulations! You have made your first deal. Haggling has reached level 2. Complete your task for your negotiated reward.}

Chapter 4

“There’s just one problem,” Jim said.

“What’s that?”

“I don’t know how to harvest corn,” Jim admitted.

“I’m starting to regret our deal,” Fred huffed. “Alright. Take some baskets to the field on the right of the barn. I’ll take this milk to my wife and show you how to break off ears of corn without damaging the stalk.”

“Thanks Fred.”

“You can thank me by working hard,” Fred replied as he walked into the barn. Jim looked at the stacks of baskets and picked one up. The basket was light. He picked up the whole stack and took it to the field. Dropping the baskets, Jim decided to get some more. Starting back to the barn Jim noticed Fred entering his house.

“I wonder if they have cows here,” Jim muttered to himself. He looked in the barn and saw what looked like a bison instead of a cow. Inspect showed that it was a bison. “No cows, but at least it isn’t some giant lizard or worse.”

Fred joined Jim at the edge of the field a few minutes later. Jim had brought 40 baskets to the field. Fred nodded his head in appreciation. He hadn’t taken long to give his wife the milk. Fred broke an ear of corn off the closest stalk. “It’s that easy.”

“Would you mind showing me that again?” Jim asked.

“Alright. Come closer,” Fred instructed. He took hold of another ear of corn. “First you want a full ear like this one. Notice the dark tassel.”

“Ok,” Jim replied. He pointed to a smaller ear with a lighter tassel. “Leave the ones like that alone?”

“Correct. They are not ripe. Now, pay attention,” Fred explained. He pulled the corn down and then pulled it back off. The ear of corn separated from the stalk.” Just like that. Give it a try.”

“Alright,” Jim replied. He repeated the steps the farmer had taken.

“That’s the way. If you get hot and need water, there is a well with a dipper on the other side of the barn.”

“Is there nobody else helping?”

“Not today. My wife is schooling our boy and then he has chores to do. I need to hitch the bull to my plow and get the field on the other side of the creek ready for wheat. I’m afraid you are on your own.”

“You don’t pay other helpers?”

“Can’t afford to, but we are saving up for a slave.”

“Do what? A slave?”

“Yes,” Fred replied. “Where are you from?”

“I didn’t know slavery was legal. I’m from America which is far away.”

“Never heard of that kingdom, so it must be far away. But yes, just like the rest of the kingdoms I know about on Stormgion, slavery is legal and fully accepted in Praha,” Fred answered. “Your America must be a strange place if slavery is not.”

“Yeah, America can be a strange place,” Jim agreed.

“Anyway, daylight is burning. Let’s get to work,” Fred said and walked off.

“What kind of screwed up world have I been sent to?” Jim asked the field. The breeze rustling the corn stalks was his only answer.

*

Jim walked to the field Fred was plowing four hours later. He had filled the baskets needed for their agreement and stopped. Harvesting corn by hand was hard work for a city boy like him. Jim’s feet hurt as did his hands. Instead of waiting for Fred to return to this end of the field, Jim walked out to meet the farmer. “I’ve filled the 25 baskets.”

“Good man. Take them to the barn and put them on the left side near the door. I should finish this field in another hour or two. If you want to harvest more corn, feel free to do so and we’ll come to an agreement for the extra work when I’m done.”

“Can I get a cart and horse or something to help?”

Fred had never stopped moving and Jim had to keep up. The farmer spared a glance at Jim. “Do you know how to plow like this, hitch a horse and wagon, or even drive a horse and wagon?”

“No,” Jim sighed.

“Then you’ll have to move the bushels by hand.”

“Fine,” Jim huffed and walked back to the cornfield. Picking up the first basket, Jim groaned. The basket was fairly heavy, and Jim knew his legs and back would be killing him when he was done. Jim muttered to himself as he started to the barn, “Maybe I should have dumped more points into strength and endurance.”

*

Jim dropped the ladle back into the bucket, it was attached to the bucket by a short length of rope, and let the bucket go. The bucket was connected to a rope and pulley system built around the well. Jim then collapsed beside the well and squirmed his way into the shade the well’s cover provided.

{You have learned the skill Harvesting}

Huh. So, you could learn skills by doing things Jim thought. Well, duh! This is real life for him now. After cooling off a little, Jim pulled up his stats.

{Strength-6, Endurance-6, Dexterity-6, Charisma-8, Intelligence-8, Wisdom-7, Luck-7}

After a few minutes of trying, Jim finally figured out how to pull up his health and stamina. It was on a more traditional character screen.

{

Jim*

Health: 100

Stamina: 15

Class: none

Skills: Inspect(1)

Haggling(2)

Harvesting(1)

}

Wasn’t much to look at. Jim’s stamina started rising as he sat on the ground. That was good. He knew Haggling had leveled up, so the numbers next to his skills must represent their levels. Jim checked the asterisk next to his name.

{Last names are given, earned, or chosen once a person has a class}

Well, he had time to think about it and in the meantime, not having a last name gave him an excuse to use the Jim line from the old Blazing Saddles movie. Jim sighed. He would miss movies, air conditioning, cellphones, pizza, and milkshakes. Jim dozed off while listing all the things he would miss.

*

“Hey!” Jim exclaimed as Fred kicked his foot.

“Going to sleep the rest of the afternoon away?”

“I was tired and dozed off,” Jim stated the obvious. “You didn’t have to kick me.”

“You’re right. Sorry,” Fred apologizes. “Let me go into the house, get the pack, and we’ll settle up.”

“Sounds good,” Jim replied to Fred’s back as the farmer walked to his house. Two minutes later the farmer emerged from his house carrying a backpack in his left hand and headed to the barn. He waved Jim to accompany him. Jim fell in step with the farmer.

“Fred, what can you tell me about the village?”

“Rock Hope is mostly a mining village, hence the name. We have a tavern, an inn, a temple, and a couple of merchants. Viktous is the more successful of the two and as cutthroat as you’ll meet. He owns most of the village and his guards are vicious. Karim is fair but cannot get the stock that Viktous can. I’m married and steer clear of the tavern since my wife would beat me with a pan if I still drank every evening,” Fred explains with a grin.

“Aye. That is a lesson every man learns at one point or another. Keep your better half happy or suffer the consequences,” Jim agrees.

“Are you married?”

“No, but I paid attention to my parents and extended family enough to learn that lesson the easy way,” Jim answers with a grin of his own.

“I wish I had, but I had to do things the hard way,” Fred laughs as they entered the barn and stopped by the baskets of corn. Fred opens the pack’s flap and hands it to Jim. “Hold this.”

Jim complies and watches as Fred effortlessly picks up one of the bushels of corn and dumps it into the pack. Jim’s eyes widen in shock. The pack still weighs next to nothing and doesn’t look full at all. “It’s a magic bag!”

“Of course, it is. Traveler’s Packs are used to haul a lot of weight easily,” Fred replies. It works just like a game’s inventory system Jim thought. A second later and Fred confirms Jim’s suspicion. “There are 25 slots in the pack and each slot can hold 10 of whatever small item you put in it. Bigger items can take up more slots.”

“Thanks for the explanation,” Jim says. Fred looks at him funny and dumps another bushel of corn into the pack. “Uh, magic wasn’t common where I’m from.”

“It is here. You’ll get used to it though. If you hustle, you can try to sell the corn in the village square. The guards will make you vacate at sunset though. If you don’t want to try and sell the corn yourself, I recommend selling it to Karim.”

“Thanks Fred,” Jim replies as he shuts the pack and hoists it up. It weighs about 15 pounds with the corn in it. “I’ll probably sell it to Karim since it will be easier.”

“Makes sense.”

“One last question. How do I get the corn out?”

“You can pull up the pack’s inventory when you trade with a merchant, or you can pull up the inventory by thinking about it when you open the pack. Then just reach in and pull whatever you want out.”

“Thanks again. I’ll be going now.”

“Alright. If you’re still looking work tomorrow, you can harvest more corn. We’ll do 1 bushel for 10.”

“Ok. I’ll think about it. Take care,” Jim replies and exits the barn. He shifts the pack and starts toward the village.

{Congratulations! You have completed your first task and deal. One Traveler’s Pack and 2 bushels of corn are your reward.}

Chapter 5

As Jim walked to the village, he used Inspect on just about everything in sight. Surprisingly most of the plants, birds, and insects he saw were the same as on earth. This made Jim think of his erstwhile abductor turned benefactor. He vaguely recalled from mythology that Anu was the leader of the Sumerian gods. Was the Anu he had spoken with the same being or something different? Was Anu a god or an alien like that TV show claimed? Jim shook his head. It didn’t matter. All that mattered was Jim was here and only owned what he had on his person. He was sore and hungry too. Strangely he wasn’t tired anymore. A quick check of his stats showed his stamina back up over 85. Nice!

A single level 4 dwarf guard named Timotheus watched the path leading to Rock Hope. The village did not have walls or even a fence surrounding it. One large stone building with a couple of smaller out buildings did have a wooden fence around it along with two guards at its gate. Jim assumed that was the residence of the more profitable merchant. Most of the homes and other buildings were wood. A few of the smallest had thatch roofs. Jim stopped near the guard and used Inspect on everything in sight. The gated residence was indeed Viktous’. The guard studied Jim.

“Don’t give us any trouble or we will enslave you for the mines,” Timotheus warned.

“Wouldn’t dream of causing trouble,” Jim replied. “Just trying to get a feel for the village.”

“Good.”

“What did you mean I would be enslaved?”

“Just what I said. Our headman wants to make the mines as profitable as possible and has no issues with enslaving anyone that breaks the law to do the grunt work.”

“Even for a minor infraction?”

Timotheus took off his helmet and scratched his head. “Well, a first offense might merely see you indentured for a month.”

“That’s a steep punishment.”

“Aye. It’s also why we rarely have problems.”

“There is that” Jim agreed. “I’m Jim.”

“I’m Timotheus,” the guard returned the introduction and offered his hand to Jim. They shook and Jim almost screamed as the dwarf squeezed his hand. Timotheus grinned.

“You have quite the grip,” Jim said. The guard’s grin grew bigger.

“Aye.”

“I’m a newcomer to the area,” Jim admitted.

“I know.”

“How much does the inn charge for a room?”

“Twenty coppers per night and that includes two meals.”

“How much is a meal?”

“Five copper coins,” Timotheus grumbled.

“I take it from the sound of your voice that is on the expensive side.”

“Aye. It was two coppers per meal before Ingrid bought the Sleepy Miner a year ago,” Timotheus explained. “I don’t begrudge anyone from making money, but there is no need to be greedy.”

“Does the tavern serve food?”

“Ha! Nothing but spirits to be found in the Drunken Goose.”

“Perhaps it isn’t greed so much as charging what the market will bear and recouping her money since the only other option is to cook for yourself.”

“Are you a merchant?” Timotheus asked.

“No. I just had a broad education and paid attention to some of the lessons,” Jim answered. Timotheus nodded his understanding. As they were talking Viktous’ gates opened. The merchant was a large fat man with skin as dark as coal being carried on a palanquin by four orcs. Riding on the palanquin fanning him was a beautiful girl with golden hair barely covered by the cloth wrapped around her feminine bits. Jim used Inspect.

{Viktous Goldtooth Level 10 Merchant}

{Svana Level 2 Slave}

{Mok Level 5 Slave}

{Pok Level 5 Slave}

{Durz Level 5 Slave}

{Burz Level 5 Slave}

“Viktous doesn’t travel with guards?”

“Pay closer attention. His slaves are his guards. All of those orcs are armed with short swords or axes,” Timotheus answered. Jim checked the gate guards again. Yep, they were slaves too.

{Congratulations! Inspect as reached level 2.}

Jim dismissed the notice. “Level 10 doesn’t seem that high and he owns all of that and according to Fred a lot of the village?”

“You have the Inspect skill too?” Timotheus asks. Jim nods yes. “Thought so. Yeah, Viktous has done well here despite his low level and lives in luxury while most of us struggle. Pretty slave girls to warm his bed and whatever else he wants them to do, A magic tub that warms or cools the water according to his desire, a magic cooling box to keep whatever he wants cool, and more money than the rest of the village combined. He almost makes me want to be a merchant. I’m not complaining though. We guards have it easy in comparison to most until there is a need for us to fight.”

“Thanks for the chat, Timotheus. I need to get going.”

“Before you head into the village, what do you have in the pack?”

“Just two bushels of corn I got for helping Farmer Fred.”

“Alright. Looking to sell them?”

“Yeah.”

“It’s getting late.”

“Yeah.”

“I would try Ingrid first. Fresh corn would be a welcome change to her meals.”

“Hadn’t had any in a while?”

“Nope. If she won’t pay a fair price, Karim will.”

“Fred recommended Karim as well. Where is his shop?”

“On the left side of the temple in the village square. You can’t miss it.”

“Thanks again Timotheus.”

“Aye. See you around, Jim,” the guard replied as Jim walked into the village.

*

If Viktous has made that much money and lives in relative luxury, I want to become a merchant too Jim thought. Jim wasn’t keen on the idea of owning slaves though. Then again, Svana would be a 10 even on earth, and the idea of owning someone like her doing any and everything Jim desired was very appealing to Jim’s darkside. Those thoughts made Jim wonder just how much of a sadist he was. Jim dismissed the thoughts. He had more important things to do like selling corn so he could buy something to eat. Jim used Inspect on any and everything in sight. Might as well work on leveling up his skill and hopefully his own level while making his way to the inn. Jim came to the village square and gazed around.

{You have discovered a temple. If you die and choose to resurrect, this is where you will resurrect at until you discover another temple closer to your location.}

“Well, isn’t that special?” Jim asked himself. “Yes. Yes, it is. Though it doesn’t do me any good until I level or earn enough cash.”

The temple was a stone building that looked like the ancient Greek temples with the exception that it was round instead of square or rectangle in shape. It had a well-kept lawn, but not the expansive grounds that temples in the games he had played had. Karim’s shop was right beside the temple on its left side. The shop was a small two-story wooden building. Jim supposed the merchant lived on the top floor.

The largest building in the village was the Sleepy Miner on the right of the square. The inn had a stone first floor with the middle and top floors being wood. The buildings around the square were not as run down as Jim feared based on those at the village outskirts. Jim suddenly wished his corn were popcorn. That would be something these people should not know about and could make him a decent buck.

“Wait,” Jim whispered to himself. He remembered that you could make popcorn using corn on the cob if the corn were dry and this is a magical world. Surely there is someone here that could dry the corn with a fire spell or suck the moisture out. If he could get the corn dried out, then he could hopefully convince the innkeeper to buy some corn after he showed her how to make popcorn. Jim decided to sell a bushel and a half to Karim. The other half bushel he would sell to the inn or at least trade for a meal. Jim turned and headed to Karim’s shop.

A little bell rung when Jim opened the shop’s door. A man a few inches shorter and a few years older than Jim came out of the back and greeted him. “Welcome to my shop. My name is Karim.”

“Greetings Karim. I’m Jim,” Jim returned the greeting. He used Inspect on the merchant.

{Karim Level 3 Merchant}

“Pleasure to meet you, Jim. How can I help you?”

“Karim, I have a bushel and a half of fresh corn I would like to sell or trade to you,” Jim answered. He took off his pack and set it on the floor beside him in front of the counter the merchant was standing behind. Jim smiled as he pulled out an ear of corn out of the pack. He loved having a magic bag!

“Hmmm. Fresh corn would be nice. I’ll give you a silver coin for all of it.”

“That price seems a little low. Farmer Fred hasn’t started harvesting his corn yet and I have this that you can sell at a higher price to your customers until Fred starts,” Jim counters. It was technically true. Fred plowed a field while Jim did all the work. “Three silver coins for the corn.”

“You’re a newcomer, right?”

“Yeah.”

“Are you a traveling merchant or trader too?”

“No.”

“So, just someone that either stole that corn or helped a farmer by harvesting some while they did other tasks,” Karim replied. How did the man know that? Lucky guess probably. “What else do you have in that pack?”

“Just the corn,” Jim replied honestly.

“And you just have the clothes you’re wearing too?”

“Yeah.”

“I’ll trade you a blanket, tinderbox, and fire striker for the corn instead. With a Traveler’s Pack, you don’t seem the sort to want to stick around Rock Hope,” the merchant reasoned. Jim thought about it for a moment.

“I’ll take that deal on one condition.”

“I’m listening.”

“You teach me the merchant class.”

“Ha! Not likely.”

“If you do, I’ll teach you how to make something unique with corn,” Jim countered. Might as well go all in and change plans. “I actually have two bushels of corn, but I had planned on selling or trading half a bushel to the inn for a meal or night’s stay.”

“It’s corn. You cut it up and put it in a stew, boil it in a pot, or roast it over a fire,” Karim scoffed. “There is nothing else you can do with it.”

“Not true. Where I’m from we can make a special treat with corn. This treat can last for several days, so you could get multiple sales from it,” Jim replied. “Plus, it’ll be something you have to offer that Viktous doesn’t.”

“Now you have my attention,” Karim said. “Alright. I’ll take both bushels of corn and we have a deal.”

“Works for me,” Jim agreed and shook Karim’s hand.

{Congratulations! Haggling has increased to level 3, and you have completed a deal.}

Karim went around his shop and removed a folded blanket, a tinderbox, and striker from a couple of shelves. He returned to the counter and set the items down as Jim took the corn from the pack and set it on the counter. “There is just one problem.

“What’s that?” Jim asked as Karim moved the corn to his inventory. Jim’s eyes widened in shock as the corn went into a ring on Karim’s right hand.

“I can’t train you to be a merchant.”

Chapter 6

“What do you mean you can’t train me to be a merchant?” Jim asked. “We had a deal.”

“Aye, we had a deal and you’re getting good supplies for your trouble.”

“That was only part of what we agreed to!”

“True. That’s why I’m going to throw in a canteen, tent, and some beef jerky to make up for it,” Karim replied. “Anybody can be a merchant and you don’t need any special training. All you need is something to sell, or in our case trade, and someone that will pay or trade for what you are offering.”

{Your completed deal has been altered and amended due to circumstances beyond either party’s control. You have learned the merchant class. You have leveled up. Would you like to switch to this class? Y/N}

Jim dismissed the notice. He would deal with that later. It didn’t happen the way he wanted, but Jim had learned the class, gained some additional loot, and leveled up too. It was a win!

“I feel I might be getting the short end of the stick even with the additional items.”

“Depending on how your corn treat sells, you might be. Then again, I might be getting the short end,” Karim laughed. “That’s what happens with trades.”

“That’s fair I guess.”

“Right. Now, how do we make this treat?”

“Do you have a way to dry the corn?”

“I don’t have any magic devices or skills that can do that, no.”

“Alright. We need to dry it out over a fire or leave it in the sun until it dries out.”

“I tell you what, let me lock up and we’ll go upstairs. My wife should have supper ready shortly. I can’t promise you a big meal, but she was making a stew earlier, so there should be enough for the three of us. While we eat, we can dry a couple of corn ears in the fireplace,” Karim offered as he walked to his front door and locked it.

“Thank you. That sounds like a good plan.”

*

“We remove the kernels like this,” Jim stated as he showed Karim and his wife, Violet, how he twisted his hands over the dried corn cob that he had a tight grip on. The kernels fell into the pot sitting on the floor in front of Jim. Jim repeated the process with a second ear of corn. “Do you have any cooking oil?”

“Yes,” Violet answered as she stood and walked to the cabinet that she kept the oil in. She returned a moment later with a bottle of oil.

“Thank you,” Jim said as he took the oil and poured a little into the pot. “Does this pot have a lid or is there something we can put on top of it?”

“Why do you ask?” Violet asked as she took the oil back.

“The kernels will pop and when they do, they will fly everywhere.”

“Oh. I’ve never seen that happen before,” Violet replied as she took the oil back to the cabinet. A moment later she returned with a lid that she placed on the pot. The pot was a stew pot. Karim took it and hung it over the fire in the fireplace.

“How long will this take?” Karim asked.

“Hopefully, just a few minutes,” Jim answered. “Do you have any salt?”

“Yes. Why?”

“Some people like salt on their popcorn.”

“Popcorn?” Is that what this treat is called?”

“Yeah. It’s a simple name.”

“That it is,” Violet agreed. A few minutes later they heard a pinging sound coming from the pot. First it was one ping, then it rapidly increased. “Is it popping?”

“Yes. Honestly, I wasn’t sure if it would work. I’ve never tried drying corn over a fire before,” Jim replied. After a couple more minutes the pinging had all but stopped. “Let’s take the pot up.”

“Alright,” Karim agreed. He removed the pot from the fire and then took the lid off. The pot was filled with fluffy white popcorn. Karim picked out a piece and sniffed it. “Smells good.”

Jim walked to the table and pulled out a piece. He sniffed it and then ate it. “Tastes good too. Could use a little salt though.”

Karim ate his piece and waved his wife over. “Our new friend is right. It is good.”

Violet tried a piece. “I agree. But I think Jim is correct and that it could use some salt.”

Karim walked over to the cabinets and returned with a small bag. He handed it to Jim. “Here is our cooking salt.”

“Thanks,” Jim replied as he opened the bag and poured some into his hand. Jim sat the bag down and then sprinkled the salt over the popcorn. “This would work better in a big bowl or something that we could stir the popcorn in. But this should give you a taste.”

“Is there anything else you can add to it” Violet asked.

“Some people like melted butter on it,” Jim answered.

“Butter is hard to come by,” Karim said. He explained further after Jim gave him a questioning look. “Not a lot of farmers have enough bison to sell the milk or use it for things other than well, milk.”

“Fred makes a little and trades it to us when he can. Usually during the winter,” Violet added. “Perhaps one of the traveling merchants could get some.”

“Well, you can try it whenever you get some butter. Just melt the butter and then pour it over the popcorn. Some people really love buttered popcorn, but I like it with just salt.”

“This will keep for days?”

“Yes. An open container of popcorn will last for 4 days or so depending on the cli…I mean the weather.”

“What does the weather have to do with it?” Violet asked.

“If it gets really warm with a lot of moisture in the air, it’ll make the popcorn go bad quicker.”

“Oh. It never gets like that here,” Karim replied. “Our days stay mild until winter and then it gets cold.”

“Good to know,” Jim said as they finished the popcorn.

“I know my husband traded for the knowledge with you, but I think you have given us a great gift,” Violet told the newcomer. Karim nodded in agreement. “We don’t have another bed or room, but you could stay here and sleep on the floor here if you like.”

“I did trade you a blanket but would be glad to loan you a couple for the night,” Karim added. Jim thought over the gesture.

“I’ll make sure to cook extra for breakfast in the morning,” Violet teased.

“I can’t turn down that kind of offer. I accept.”

*

A couple hours later and Jim was laying on a blanket before the fireplace. He pulled up his character sheet and chose to accept the merchant class.

{

Jim Merchant

Health: 110

Stamina: 110

Class: Merchant(2)

Skills: Inspect(1)

Haggling(3)

Harvesting(1)

}

Jim chose merchant as a last name and noticed his health and stamina had gone up by 10. He wondered if it was a percentage. His stats had not gone up at all.

{Strength-6, Endurance-6, Dexterity-6, Charisma-8, Intelligence-8, Wisdom-7, Luck-7}

“Well, it is what it is,” Jim muttered to himself as he noticed that he had not gained a cooking skill or anything like that. Jim dismissed his screens and closed his eyes. “Maybe I’ll get some stat points next level.”

Chapter 7

Jim did a mental check of his supplies after Karim opened his shop for the day. Karim had unlocked his door an hour after the sun rose. One tinderbox, striker, blanket, tent, canteen, and a few days’ worth of beef jerky. He needed something to sell or trade. Jim also knew he needed directions to the next town or village. Karim was doing a little dusting while Jim looked around the shop. Jim saw some potions behind the counter. Inspect showed them to be minor health and mana potions. Those would sell anywhere.

Karim stepped around the counter after a few minutes of cleaning. “See anything you like?”

“Lots.”

“Anything in particular?”

“The potions.”

“Always popular items that sell everywhere,” Karim agreed.

“Would you trade me some of them?”

“You don’t have anything to trade.”

“True, but I’m sure Farmer Fred would put me to work harvesting more corn. He did say something about trading one bushel for ten before I left yesterday.”

“Hmmm. Violet is going to pop some of the corn, and we are going to attempt to sell it today. If it works out and the popcorn sells well, I’ll trade you one potion for one bushel of corn. If it doesn’t sell, five bushels of corn for one potion,” Karim offered.

“I like the first part of the deal, but let’s say three bushels for one potion,” Jim countered.

“Four bushels.”

“Three and a half.”

“Done,” Karim said and stuck out his hand. Jim shook it.

{Congratulations! You have made a deal. The reward is variable depending on how popcorn sells and how much corn you can bring Karim.}

“Alright. It’s time for me to return to the farm. See you later Karim.”

*

Ten hours later Fred and Jim loaded the last two baskets of corn on Fred’s wagon. Fred had helped Jim the whole day by loading the full baskets onto the wagon and keeping Jim supplied with empty ones. This had enabled Jim to harvest five rows of corn. While that didn’t seem a lot, it was 100 bushels of corn.

“Jim, you worked awfully hard today, and I appreciate it. You can stay in the barn tonight if you like,” Fred offered.

“Tempting, but I promised Karim I would return and trade with him this evening.”

“Fair enough. Coming back in the morning?”

“Maybe. Depends on how the trading with Karim goes.”

“If you come back, we’ll repeat what we did today,” Fred said as he finished pouring the tenth bushel into Jim’s pack.

“Thanks Fred. See you when I see you.”

“Of course, you see me.”

“It’s just an expression where I’m from. It means we’ll meet again whenever we meet.”

“Oh. Ok,” the Farmer replied as Jim started back to the village. Fred muttered to himself, “Jim’s nice, but a bit off.”

*

“Hey Jim!” Karim greeted the newcomer.

“Hi Karim. How did your day go?” Jim returned the greeting and asked as he dropped his pack with a sigh on Karim’s counter.

“Better than yours by the way you look.”

“Fred helped today so I was able to harvest a hundred bushels of corn. Ten are mine, but yeah, I’m beat.”

“Smells like it too.”

“Sorry about that. I don’t have any other clothes or a place to wash,” Jim replied after taking a sniff of himself.

“I can help with that. We’re about the same size and I’ll let you use our tub in the back room. The water will be cold though.”

“That’s too much Karim,” Jim protested.

“No, it’s not. We sold both bushels of corn I got from you yesterday as popcorn today. Plus, people bought other goods while here,” Karim explained. “I had to turn people away that wanted popcorn. Feeding you, letting you use the tub, and giving you a spare change of clothes is worth what I made today and then some.”

“Thanks. I’m too tired to argue further.”

“Well, let’s get the business done and then we’ll get you set to rights.”

“Fine with me,” Jim agreed. Karim pulled a coil of rope, bedroll, some cooking and eating utensils, and a pan from behind the counter. Jim raised an eyebrow in question and Inspected the items. They were all basic traveler goods.

“Trust me,” Karim simply stated. “I’ll take your ten bushels of corn and the blanket I had given you in exchange for these items and three of each of the minor health and mana potions. I’ll throw in a pair of pants, small clothes, and shirt as a bonus.”

“Today was really that good?”

“Yup. The next few days should be even better.”

“Alright. I agree to your terms.”

{Congratulations! You have completed your deal. Inspect has increased to level 2.}

“Karim, I have a couple of questions.”

“Alright.”

“Do you have a map? And where is the next village or town?”

“Aye. Just a moment,” the merchant answered. He walked into the back room and returned a moment later with a rolled-up map. Jim joined him further down the counter where Karim unfurled the map. Karim started pointing out places including Rock Hope and the closest villages, Catfish Landing and Swift River.

{“Congratulations! You have discovered new locations. These locations have been marked on your map.”}

*

Jim’s third day on Stormgion had started out well enough. The bedroll had proven to be a thin sleeping bag that was a little better than the blanket he had used the night before. It was really two blankets that had been sewn together. Jim had left Rock Hope after having breakfast with Violet and Karim.

Birds were chirping, the sky was a clear blue, and a nice breeze was blowing as Jim made his way down the path towards Catfish Landing. Jim couldn’t wait to see what the catfish looked like since the whole village was named after them. A voice from the trees beside the path cut into his thoughts.

“Merchant, what do you have?”

“My name is Jim, but most folks call me…Jim,” the merchant answered the warrior that had stopped him. Jim used Inspect on the orc warrior. Kaldor was a level five. Jim was barely level two.

“I never asked for your name.”

“Never hurts to make introductions.”

“I’m in a hurry. Just show me what you got.”

“Fine. I have a few minor mana and healing potions for sale. Three of each in fact. I also have some rope,” Jim answered as he lowered his pack. After a moment, he held up a wineskin. “I also have some wine. All are fairly priced. Three silvers for each potion. Five coppers for the rope and three coppers for the wineskin. You won’t find a better deal outside a village.”

“Looks like you have a bedroll, pan, and some cooking utensils too.”

“Those and what food I have are for me and not for sale.”

“We’ll take it all.”

“That’s great! That’ll be…18 silver and five coppers. I’ll throw in the wine for free.”

The warrior laughed. “That’s not bad, but we want everything including your bedroll, food, cooking supplies, and money.”

“We?” Jim asked. Jim started to have a bad feeling about this. He was pretty confident the warrior could run him down. He had put several points into stamina, but orcs were known for their stamina. Jim had put most of his points into his charisma and luck. “There is just the two of us.”

“Boys, why don’t you come on out and introduce yourselves to Jim,” Kaldor called out. Four more people exited the surrounding trees. Jim turned in a circle and used Inspect on each. Taven was a dual welding elf rogue. Cain was a dwarf warrior. Grim, a goblin shaman. And the last was an elven archer named Robin. He even had a hood. The skill reveled all were level five too. Yep, he was boned. Finding bandits shouldn’t have been a surprise, yet it was. “As you see, you’re surrounded and we’re all higher rank too. Give us your stuff and we’ll let you live.”

“Let’s just kill him,” Grim said. “I could try and turn his corpse into a zombie!”

“Don’t be like that Grim. If we let him live, he can donate to us again the next time he comes through,” Cain countered.

“I like that idea,” Taven agreed. “The more donations these plebs give us the quicker we can get rich.”

“We could just enslave him,” Grim offered to his group.

“Robin?”

“Doesn’t matter to me. We need to hurry though.”

“You know how I feel about slavery Grim. The only reason I’m free is that fool I had been enslaved by was eaten by giant spiders and I was able to escape. We’re not enslaving him.”

“Fine. Do whatever and let’s go.”

“Looks like you get to live merchant. Drop your stuff and go,” Kaldor ordered. Jim complied and regretted choosing to be a merchant.

“Happy?”

“Thrilled. Now get lost.”

“Alright,” Jim agreed and turned back towards Rock Hope, the nearest village in this region. He had gone 50 feet when an arrow hit him between the shoulder blades causing Jim to fall face first.

“I love Powershot!” Robin exclaimed. Not only had the skill taken half of Jim’s health, but it had stunned him as well. Jim heard the bandits’ approach. “Don’t forget to check his boots. He might have tried to hide some coin in them.”

“Too bad!” Cain exclaimed as he swung his hammer down onto Jim’s head. The world turned red and then faded to black.

*

{You have been killed. Since you have no coin, one level has been removed in lieu of payment. You will be resurrected at the nearest temple and your new level will be 1 if you choose to resurrect. Do you wish to resurrect? Y/N}

Chapter 8

The day dawned as any other within Rock Ridge’s temple. As the sun rose, Ariel the priestess, led Bea, her acolyte, in their morning prayer. Birds chirped and started singing which brought a smile to the woman’s face. She loved the small village and its boring lifestyle. The most exciting thing to happen in years was Karim’s new popped corn treat. Both had immediately loved the new snack, but Ariel knew she would have to be careful with the new temptation. It wouldn’t be good to make a habit of eating it.

“Mistress, should I open the doors now?” Bea asked after they finished their prayer.

“Yes Bea,” the priestess answered the acolyte. “Then see to our breakfast.”

“Of course, mistress,” the girl replied. Ariel slowly stood up and turned from the altar. Her eyes tracked her acolyte as the girl opened the temple’s doors and headed to their private quarters in the back of the temple. A blinding flash of golden light emitted from the altar.

“Mistress what is that?” Bea screamed in alarm as her eyes watered. Ariel wiped and blinked her own eyes.

“I don’t know child,” Ariel answered. “Perhaps the gods have blessed us.”

“Where the hell am I?” a male voice asked.

“Th, the temple at Rock Hope,” Bea helpfully answered. “Are you a god?”

“I’m Jim,” the voice answered. “Anu could have warned me that dying hurt.”

“I’ve never heard of a god named Jim,” Aerial said.

“I’m not a god.”

“Then don’t curse in my temple,” Aerial warned. “You’re nothing but a level 1 merchant. How did you get in here?”

“Should have remembered the line from Ghostbusters,” Jim muttered as he heard the anger in the woman’s, well priestess’ voice. Then he realized what she said. Pulling up his character screen, Jim confirmed what she had stated.

{

Jim Merchant

Health: 110

Stamina: 110

Class: Merchant(1)

Skills: Inspect(2)

Haggling(3)

Harvesting(1)

}

“Fuck me! It did take a level to resurrect,” Jim grumbled to himself. A jolt of electricity hit him. “Ow! The hell was that?”

“I warned you not to curse in my temple!” Aerial screeched. She blasted Jim with another Spark. Jim’s health dropped another 10 points. “This is the price of your transgressions!”

{

Jim Merchant

Health: 90

Stamina: 110

Class: Merchant(1)

Skills: Inspect(2)

Haggling(3)

Harvesting(1)

}

“Alright! I’m sorry,” Jim screamed as she hit him with Spark again. He dived behind the altar.

“Bea, run and get the guards while I hold this vagabond here.”

“Yes mistress!” the acolyte answered and dashed out of the temple. The priestess did not seem to want to move from her spot, so Jim decided to stay hidden behind the altar.

“Once the guards get here, you’ll be enslaved and made to work the mines,” Aerial gloated. “Maybe I can have them make you clean the temple too.”

Jim didn’t say a word as he was worried that the priestess was correct. As their standoff extended a few more minutes, Bea returned with some guards. “Mistress, I have brought the guards.”

“I see that.”

“What is going on here?” one of the guards asked. Jim recognized that voice. There might be hope he could get out of this yet.

“Timotheus! It’s Jim”

“Jim? I thought you left a few days ago. What are you doing in the temple?”

“Temple?” Jim asked and stood up. Jim ducked back down as he saw the glow at the end of the priestess’ hand.

“Aerial, cut that out,” Timotheus ordered. “We are here and will handle this.”

“Fine,” the priestess sniffed. “I want that miscreant out of here and in chains!”

The other two guards snickered as Timotheus sighed. “We don’t take orders from the temple or its priestess.”

“Can I come out?” Jim called out.

“Yes,” Timotheus answered. Jim walked out with his hands up. The guard pointed at a pew. “Sit Jim.”

Jim complied. “Ok.”

“Aerial, you and Bea sit there,” the guard instructed as he pointed at the pew across from Jim. After the women sat, Timotheus took off his helm. “Alright. Tell me what happened.”

Aerial, Bea, and Jim all started talking at once which made the other two guards laugh.

“Enough!” Timotheus shouted and waited for the three to shut up. “One at a time and we’ll start with Bea.”

“Are you sure,” the acolyte asked. “She looked at Aerial for confirmation instead of the guards.

“Of course, dear. Just be honest,” Aerial instructed.

“Ok,” Bea replied. “Our day started like normal and then…”

*

“And then I found myself on the altar,” Jim finished.

“You were killed by bandits and then woke up on the altar?” one of the other guards asked.

“Yeah, that’s pretty much it. I did lose a level though.”

“That’s impossible! You cannot be a level 1 with a class,” the third guard stated.

“Inspect me. You’ll see I’m back to level 1.”

All three guards did so. “I’ve never heard of such a thing. Priestess Aerial do you know what is going on?”

“It appears one of the gods brought this merchant back and I have no idea why,” Aerial answered. Since it appeared the man was touched by the gods, and she didn’t want to offend someone the gods were watching, she decided to heal Jim. “Healing touch. Jim, your wounds should be healed. I apologize for attacking you as well.”

“Thank you, priestess,” Jim replied deciding to let things go. A free healing was nice. He decided to take another step and smooth things over with the priestess. Jim pulled up his character sheet to make sure he was back to full health. “When I am able, I’ll return and make an offering.”

{

Jim Merchant

Health: 110

Stamina: 110

Class: Merchant(1)

Skills: Inspect(2)

Haggling(3)

Harvesting(1)

}

“That would be nice. I look forward to your return,” Aerial agreed. “Now get out of here so my acolyte can cook breakfast.”

“You heard her, let’s go,” Timotheus ordered the other two guards. “Jim, come with us.”

*

“What are you going to do now Jim?” Timotheus asked as he led Jim and the other two guards away from the temple.

“Start over somehow.”

“Looks like Viktous’ favorite trading group is back,” the second guard announced. Jim and the others turned to where the guard was looking. Jim froze. Timotheus turned to look at Jim and saw he was starting to shake from fear.

“Jim?”

“…”

“Jim, what is it?”

“He acts like he’s never seen an orc before,” one of the third guard said.

“Nah, I know he’s seen Viktous’ slaves as I saw him talking to Timotheus the other day,” the second guard retorted. Timotheus stepped in front of Jim, but the man continued to stare at the mixed party that had entered the village square. The guard slapped the merchant.

“What did you do that for?” Jim asked as he rubbed his cheek. The dwarf packed a wallop.

“Had to get your attention somehow. You were staring at that group like you were seeing ghosts.”

“I’m not sure who the smallish one is, but the other three are part of the bandits that robbed and killed me,” Jim replied. The guards turned from the merchant and stared at the group.

“Bradford, go get some more guards. And do it quickly,” Timotheus ordered the third guard. “Fritz and I will approach the group. Jim, stay here.”

“What about the smallish one?” Fritz asked. “He has a collar.”

“They probably want to sell him,” Timotheus replied. “The only way to free him is to kill whichever one enslaved him, but I would rather keep them all alive and put to work in the mine.”

“Really Timotheus?” Jim asked.

“Yup. It’s the way of the world,” the guard answered. The group sat beside the village well. “Perfect. They’re waiting for the shops to open.”

“Will I be able to get my stuff back?”

“Yeah, we can do that,” Fritz answered. “Might could give you a share of whatever they have on them too since you have identified the bandits.”

“Yeah, the headman will agree to that,” Timotheus agreed.

“The others are taking up position,” Fritz observed.

“Yup. Let’s go greet the bandits,” Timotheus told his fellow guard.

Chapter 9

Kaldor grunted as he sat on the ground outside of Viktous’ shop. His outfit had an agreement with the merchant. The bandits left Viktous’ goods alone and in return the merchant acted as a fence for the bandits’ ill-gotten gains. Viktous also informed the bandits whenever he got wind of other merchants moving goods through the area. The relationship had proven beneficial to all involved with one exception. The merchant demanded the bandits come to him instead of meeting somewhere more discreet. So, here they were in Rock Hope’s village square waiting for the merchant to open his shop.

Kaldor thought they had a nice haul though. They had Cain’s hammer and armor as well as Taven’s gear. Kaldor mused he would have to replace them at some point soon. There was the guards’ gear that killed his companions. The merchant they killed three days ago didn’t have much beyond the six low grade potions except a few basic survival tools and food. The poor fool had been traveling alone and didn’t even have a single copper coin on him. The three other traveling merchants they had robbed had a good amount of copper and silver coin in addition to various goods, mostly food, seed, and fabric that Viktous would give a decent price for. One of them even had a nice selection of daggers. The bandits had kept those for their personal use.

The real prize though was the elf they had enslaved. The boy named Cohen had the enchanting skill and had been traveling with his uncle to learn and experience the world. Too bad the merchants’ two guards had been warriors and not archers. Robin had made short work of the two and the merchant had begged for their lives. Kaldor knew Viktous would pay well for an enchanter, even one as unskilled as Cohen. So, Kaldor had swallowed the bile that creeped up his throat, spared the boy because of his skill, and taken him as his first slave. The orc shrugged his massive shoulders. It was the way of the world after all.

*

“What about the goblin shaman?” Jim asked the guards as he came up behind them.

“Didn’t I tell you to stay put?” Timotheus asked.

“I thought you would need some info or maybe want me to go and get the priestess,” Jim dodged the question.

“Dwarves have a high magic resistance. “We’ll be fine,” Fritz replied.

“Now get back,” Timotheus ordered.

“Too late,” Jim muttered as the archer noticed them and alerted the others.

*

“Kaldor!”

“What Grim?”

“Two guards are coming this way.”

“Don’t worry about it,” the orc warrior replied. “We’re not known bandits. We’re just some adventurers looking to trade some loot and a slave.”

“It’s him!” Robin hissed.

“Him who?” Grim asked.

“The poor level 2 merchant we killed three days ago.”

“Impossible!” Kaldor exclaimed. “Cain had smashed his head so hard the white meat showed.”

“It was gray or fleshy looking,” Grim stated. “I’ll cast a spell and we can run away.”

“Your pitiful spells won’t work on dwarves,” Robin retorted coolly. “He is a level one merchant now.”

“Are you sure?” Kaldor asked his archer.

“Yeah, I’m sure. Same face and name.”

“Jim?” Grim asked.

“That’s the one.”

“Ugh.”

“You’re in for it now,” Cohen teased.

“Hush slave!” Grim screeched and hit the boy in the stones. Cohen fell crying and curled up into a ball. Grim kicked the boy a few times. “That’ll teach you.”

“Guards are coming up behind us too,” Robin stated. “Kaldor, don’t do anything. Let’s see if we can talk our way out.”

“Why?”

“There are at least ten of them and only three of us,” the elf answered. “The two approaching with the merchant are level 5. I imagine the others are as well.”

“And even if they are slightly lower level, they outnumber us,” Kaldor concluded.

“You’re giving up?” Grim asked.

“No, we haven’t done anything wrong here.”

“But the merchant.”

“It’s his word against ours.”

“And we outnumber him,” Grim added with a grin.”

“Exactly.”

*

“Good morning,” Timotheus greeted the bandits.

“Good morning,” Robin replied after a short silence and no replies from his associates. The other guards surrounded the bandits.

“Have we done something wrong by just sitting here waiting for the merchant to open his shop?” Kaldor asked.

“No.”

“Then why have you and your fellow guards surrounded us?” Robin asked.

“We have questions for you.”

“Then ask.”

“Why don’t you drop your weapons first,” Fritz suggested. Jim stayed quiet behind the guards. A few of the villagers were emerging from their homes and the inn watching the proceedings.

Grim raised a hand and started muttering a cantrip. A hatchet flew and stuck in the back of the goblin’s head. Blood sprayed coating his fellows and Cohen. The goblin collapsed to his knees and then fell face first into the ground.

“Do either of you two want to try your luck?” Timotheus asked. “If not, I suggest heeding my companion’s suggestion and dropping your weapons.”

Kaldor and Robin exchanged a look. They dropped their weapons. “Alright.”

“Bradford, you and Mobley frisk them,” Timotheus ordered. The two guards complied without saying a word. The pair removed at least three daggers from each bandit. The two guards then pulled out shackles. “Don’t resist.”

“What is the meaning of this? We did nothing wrong.”

“You killed my uncle and his guards. Then you enslaved me!” screamed Cohen.

“Sounds like you did something to me,” Fritz stated with a grin. “If you resist, we’ll just kill you. Otherwise, we’ll put you to work in the mine.”

“You’ll take the word of a slave over free men?” Robin asked.

“It’s not just the word of your slave,” Timotheus answered. The guard pointed to Jim. “It’s the word of a merchant too.”

Kaldor hung his head after Robin did. The dwarves finished shackling the two. The orc then looked up at Jim. “How did you survive and beat us here?”

“I didn’t.”

Chapter 10

“What?” Kaldor screamed.

“How is that possible?” Robin asked.

“Doesn’t matter,” Timotheus answered for Jim. “Take them to the headman so he can judge them.”

“Wait,” Fritz counter ordered the other guards. He walked up to the two bandits and patted down Robin. Fritz removed a coin purse. He did the same to Kaldor. “Now, you can take them to the headman.”

“Just make sure we get our share,” Bradford replied as he pushed the orc forward. “Get moving!”

“Alright you lollygaggers, go about your business!” Timotheus instructed the villagers.

“So, now what?” Jim asked.

“We divide the loot up before the headman comes making claims on it,” Fritz answered with a grin.

“That one,” Jim pointed to a Traveler’s Pack, “looks like the one I had. Unless they moved things around, it should have six minor potions, some food, cooking utensils, a pan, a coil of rope, flint, striker, tent, and a bedroll.”

Fritz checked the pack. “It has all of that plus 10 bolts of fabric.”

“Jim, how many slots does that pack have?” Timotheus asked.

“25 that holds 10 of each item put into a slot. Why?”

“Take this one instead,” the guard answered holding up the pack he had just checked. “It’s newer and has 50 slots. It stacks 10 of each item to a slot too.”

“Can we do that? What about the owner?”

“The bandits had it. What do you think they did with the owner?” Fritz asked.

“Even if they are still alive, Traveler’s Packs aren’t an item you can bond to any one person like you can storage rings,” Timotheus added. “So, yeah, we can do this.”

“Ok. An upgrade would be nice,” Jim replied as he took the offered pack. Checking out what was inside, he was surprised to find two sets of leather armor, two iron swords, four daggers, a bow, a quiver of 40 arrows, five bags of wheat seed, four bags of trail rations, three water skins, 20 bolts of fabric, and a control rod. Jim took the items from his old pack and transferred them to the new one. “Thanks. What is a control rod?”

“A control rod is used to control slaves,” Fritz answered without looking up.

“We’re not done. There are still the packs the archer and goblin had to go through. Plus, what to do with the boy and however much coin Fritz is counting,” Timotheus replied.

“You’re going to share the rest with me too?”

“Maybe just the coin and boy.”

“These guys had been at it a while and saved up a good amount of coin,” Fritz said. “That or got lucky with the last few merchants they robbed.”

“How much did they have?” Timotheus asked.

“20 gold, 20 silver, and 45 copper coins.”

“Wow,” Jim replied.

Timotheus whistled and then added, “Wow is right.”

“That is my uncle’s gold,” Cohen sullenly said.

“Hush lad. It was on the bandits and is now ours to decide what to do with by law. Just as you are a slave and ours to decide what to do with,” Fritz warned the boy.

“A skill book,” Timotheus observed as he went through Grim’s pack. “Enhanced Senses. That’s a pass for me.”

Jim perked up. Having enhanced senses could help him avoid trouble while traveling. “I’d like to take that. I’ll give you the control rod for it.”

“Are you sure?” Fritz asked. “The only slave they had was the boy and he is a level 2 enchanter.”

“I’m sure. Owning another person doesn’t feel right to me. Plus, having enhanced senses should help me avoid trouble on the road.”

“What do you think Timotheus?” Fritz asked as he shrugged. He didn’t care one way or the other, but he admitted the boy would be useful once he levels up.”

“Fine by me. If Cohen can enchant our armor and weapons, it keeps us alive longer,” the senior guard answered. He held out the book in one hand and extended his empty hand palm up. Jim placed the control rod in the dwarf’s hand and took the book. “That’s a trade I can live with. I’ll also throw in five gold.”

{Congratulations! You have made and completed a deal. Reward: Enhanced Senses skill book and five gold coins.}

Jim dismissed the notification. The notices were starting to get annoying. He would have to see if he could find a way to disable them later. Cohen fumed as he was traded away like an item.

“Here Jim, take the 20 silvers and 45 coppers too,” Fritz offered as he held out a small coin purse. “The rest of the gold will go to us guards.”

“And the rest of the gear, weapons, and supplies will go to the village,” Timotheus added.

“Works for me,” Jim replied as he took the small pouch. “Do you guys need a hand with that stuff?”

“Nah. We’ll just use the packs and Cohen here as a beast of burden,” Fritz answered with a grin.

“Alright. I’m going to see if Karim has a storage ring he will part with. It’s been a pleasure doing business with you.”

*

“Hi Karim”, Jim greeted the merchant. The man had been watching from his shop while Jim and the guards divided the loot and opened it as Jim approached.

“Hi Jim. I thought you had left.”

“I had, but I’m back.”

“So, I see. Plus, you have some stuff from those bandits.”

“Yeah. I want to do a bit of business if we can.”

“I’m always ready to do business,” Karim replied as he led the way into his shop. After walking around his counter, he turned to face Jim. “What do you have in mind?”

“I was wondering if you had a storage ring for sale. I’m very much interested depending on price.”

“I have two small storage rings.”

“How do they compare to yours?”

“Cheaper metal and they only have 50 slots that hold 15 of each item per slot,” Jim’s fellow merchant answered. Jim tried to control his demeanor. A little ring would hold more than his pack!

“What metal are they made of, and do they bond or whatever?”

“Silver and yes, they are bondable.”

“How do you bond a ring?” Jim wondered out loud.

“Cut the finger you want to put the ring on and let the metal touch the blood. The ring will promptly ask if you wish to bond it.”

“The ring is sentient?”

“No,” laughed Karim. “It’s just the way things work.”

“I take it that is how the slave collars work too,” Jim guessed.

“Yup. Blood from the intended slave and master. Of course, the master has to be holding a control rod at the same time.”

“I’m not worried about that. I don’t intend to make a slave or buy one.”

“Fair enough.”

“How much are the rings?”

“Five gold each.”

“What? No discount for a friendly face?”

“Ha! That is giving a discount. I’ve had them for nearly 18 months and haven’t been able to sell them.”

“Three gold plus a set of leather armor and two steel daggers,” Jim countered.

“Let’s see what the armor and daggers look like before we go any further,” Karim replied. Jim took off his pack and set it on the counter. He removed a set of the armor and two of the steel daggers. “The armor needs repairing. There is a hole on the left side of the chest. The daggers are better quality than the village smith can make. Four gold along with the daggers and armor.”

“Instead of four gold, I’ll throw in a sword as well,” Jim countered as he pulled out one of the swords. Karim’s eyes widened as he used Inspect on the sword.

“Jim, how much does your Inspect show you?”

“Not much,” he admitted. “Why?”

“You’re lucky I’m honest and like you. This is an enchanted elven sword. I’m not sure of the enchantment as my Inspect doesn’t show it, but this sword is worth 10 gold by itself,” Karim answered. Jim’s eyes widened. He used Inspect on the sword.

{Enchanted Elven Sword. Level 5. Value 10 gold}

{Congratulations! Inspect has increased to level 3}

Jim’s Inspect gave him more info after Karim had provided the info and had increased a level. Yes! He did a mental fist pump. Jim was giddy. He still had the other sword and two more daggers plus another set of the leather armor. The sword was the first item Jim had seen that had a level. He wondered about that but decided not to ask. Jim decided to press his luck. “Can I get both rings for the sword, daggers, and armor?”

Karim mulled the offer over. “Alright. We have a deal as it’s not like you had to buy anything you’re trading.”

{Congratulations! You have completed a deal. Your reward is two small storage rings. Haggling has increased to level 4!}

“Thanks Karim. It’s tempting to want to bond both rings, but I’ll try to sell one of them,” Jim replied.

“Give me a moment and I’ll get the rings from the back,” Karim told Jim. He left the sword on the counter along with the daggers and armor while he left to go to the back room. He returned a moment later and presented Jim with a box holding two silver rings. Jim used Inspect.

{Silver Storage Ring. Value 6 gold}

“Do you have a needle or a small knife so I can bond one of them?”

“Sure do,” Karim answered as he picked up one of the daggers. “Hold still. I have to make sure this is sharp after all.”

Jim pulled up his character sheet to take his mind off of what was about to happen.

{

Jim Merchant

Health: 110

Stamina: 110

Class: Merchant(1)

Skills: Inspect(3)

Haggling(4)

Harvesting(1)

}

Chapter 11

{Warning! Enhanced Senses is a passive skill that does not level. Any additional benefits seen is due to your level advancement. As a passive skill that does not level, it will not show up on your skill list. Do you wish to use this skill book? Y/N}

Jim used his skill book and spent two hours in Karim’s shop trying to get used to his enhanced senses. His vision was much sharper and picked out details at longer distances. Touch enabled him to feel the individual threads in his clothes. A part of Jim could not wait to see how his new sense of touch would feel while having sex. Another part of him dreaded what it would do if he was cut. His hearing was similar to his eyesight and made it sound like Karim was shouting at him. Jim could clearly hear Violet muttering to herself upstairs. Jim’s sense of smell made him regret using the skill book. The smell of his and Karim’s unwashed bodies was too much. Along with the herbs and food Karim had in his shop made Jim throw up. The vomit’s smell made Jim heave until his stomach was completely empty. While waiting to recover, Jim found a way to disable notices and used Inspect on his coins.

{Genuine Gold Coin}

{Genuine Silver Coin}

{Genuine Copper Coin}

Jim wasn’t sure what he had expected, but it was good to know that inspect showed what the coins were. Besides, it was good practice. He gave Karim one silver coin in addition to his apology since the other merchant cleaned up Jim’s mess. Jim refused to drink or eat anything except water. The well water had a mineral or metal taste that Jim had not noticed before. He now wanted a way to purify water.

Jim apologized a second time as he left Karim’s shop. The now brighter sunlight made him want sunglasses. The normally light blue sky now looked a touch darker and the clouds a little whiter. The slight breeze on Jim’s face made him shiver. The sounds of village life made him want earplugs. Distant hammering sounded like it was being done right beside him and he started to get a headache. Jim rushed to his next destination. His own footfalls made him want to scream.

*

Jim entered Goldtooth’s General Store hoping the merchant had what he wanted. While talking with Karim, Jim had been hit with a good idea. He wanted to make a notebook. Karim didn’t have any parchment to spare nor ink and quills. So, after talking things over with the friendly merchant, Jim decided to visit the village’s wealthiest resident’s shop. Viktous Goldtooth himself was behind the counter being fanned by Svana, his slave girl.

“Greetings and welcome to my humble establishment,” the fat merchant greeted. “I am Viktous Goldtooth. How can I help a fellow merchant?”

That was quick Jim thought. He decided to be nice for now as the other man had not given him a reason to not do so. “Hi, I’m Jim. It’s nice to meet you Mr Goldtooth.”

“Likewise, Mr Merchant. If you don’t mind my asking, how did you lose a level?” Viktous asked.

“Had a little trouble on the road and losing a level was the penalty,” Jim answered.

“Ah. The gods can be cruel as well as fair,” Viktous sagely replied.

“Indeed.”

“I’m sure you’ll regain your level soon enough. From what I’ve heard you are an enterprising individual and we have you to thank for the corn snack that Karim is selling.”

“Thank you.”

“Would you sell me the secret of how to make this snack too?”

“I’m afraid not,” Jim answered with a sad look on his face. “The deal I made with Karim does not allow it.”

“Pity.”

“Indeed. But I do have an item I think you will be interested in.”

“Oh?”

“Yes. But first I would like to know if you have ink, quill, and parchment you can sell or trade to me.”

Viktous stroked his chin. “I do. How much would you require?”

“How large are the sheets of parchment?”

“Svana, show Mr Merchant a piece of parchment.”

“Yes master,” the girl answered as she set her fan down and pulled a piece of parchment from under the counter. She unfurled it. The parchment was roughly two feet by one foot.

“This is good quality parchment. I use it myself to keep records and for messages,” Viktous informed Jim.

“May I touch it?”

“Of course.” The parchment was coarse, but it would work. Jim didn’t expect modern paper.

“How much are you selling it for?”

“Three copper per piece,” Viktous answered. Yep, Jim thought. This guy has earned his reputation.

“That is expensive.”

“Yes. Parchment is a luxury item in a village such as this. My costs are high as well.”

“How about ink and quill?”

“Thirty coppers for a pot of ink. Svana, show Mr Merchant an inkpot.”

“Yes master,” the slave answered and produced an inkpot from under the counter. The inkpot was a tiny bottle about three inches tall with a long narrow neck that made up half the bottle. The fat part of the bottle was maybe two inches round.

“Again, that is expensive.”

“Correct, but it is a luxury item. I will give you a quill with each inkpot you buy.”

“I’ll take 100 sheets of parchment and two inkpots,” Jim replied. Viktouos sucked in a breath that Jim would not have heard before and knew the merchant would have dollar signs in his eyes if possible. But he did not intend to pay that much or even at all for what he wanted.

“Svana, count out 100 pieces of parchment!” Viktous ordered. The two men watched the girl do so for the next few minutes. “That will be 3 silver and 60 copper coins.”

“Don’t forget that item I mentioned earlier.”

“I had almost forgotten about that,” Viktous conceded. Of course, you had you greedy prick Jim thought as he removed the elven sword from his ring and set it on the counter. Viktous’ eyes quickly widened and returned to normal as he used Inspect on the sword. “I can give you two gold for the sword less the parchment and ink.”

“That will not do. Karim offered 10 gold for it,” Jim replied. Viktous’ eyes tightened.

“Then sell it to him. It’s a nice sword, but he obviously doesn’t know what it is worth.”

“Fine,” Jim said nonchalantly as he picked up the sword. Jim wanted at least 11 gold for the sword. He would play to the other merchant’s pride. “I was sure a merchant of your standing would have been able to double whatever he paid for it, but I guess I was mistaken.”

“Wait. Let me see it again,” Viktous ordered. Jim sat it back on the counter. “I can do nine gold and the items you wanted.”

“I noticed the gleam in your eyes when I first revealed the sword. While my level of Inspect does not show me the sword’s worth, I’m sure it is much more valuable than that. I want 15 gold for it.”

*

Viktous made a show of thinking things over. He knew the sword was enchanted with a forever sharp enchantment as well as a minor freeze enchantment. That made the sword worth 30 gold. “I will do 12 gold for the sword.”

“Make it 12 gold plus the parchment, ink, and quill and we will have a deal,” Jim counteroffered.

“Fine. We have a deal,” Viktous stated and reached for the sword. Jim stopped him by placing a hand on the sword.

“My gold please.”

“Of course. Give me a moment and I will retrieve it,” Viktous replied with a smile that didn’t touch his eyes. He waddled into the back without another word.

*

Jim used Inspect on each coin instead of trusting Viktous.

“Do you not trust me, Mr Merchant?”

“I Inspect all coins I touch. My former kingdom had counterfeit coins, so it became habit. Nothing personal.”

“Ah. We have never had that trouble here, but that might be something I start doing as well.”

“It always pays to be cautious,” Jim replied. Jim put his sword and items into his ring. “The sword is yours Mr Goldtooth. It was nice doing business with you.”

“I look forward to doing more business with you if you return to our humble village,” Viktous said as Jim walked to his door. Jim threw up a hand and waved as he exited the shop.

Chapter 12

After leaving Viktous’ shop, Jim followed the sound of someone chopping wood. Soon enough he found a dwarf chopping firewood on the outskirts of the village. Stormgion did not appear to have cardboard, so Jim needed thin pieces of wood for his notebook covers.

“Hi there,” Jim greeted the man. “My name is Jim, and I was wondering if I could bother you to cut me a few pieces of wood in a certain size and shape.”

“Lad, are you daft?”

“No. I’m just a merchant looking to create a product. And for said product I need some thin pieces of wood. Since you are chopping wood, I thought I could pay you to help me.”

“Why didn’t you say you would pay in the first place?” the dwarf asked. “My name is Bryon.”

“Pleasure to meet you, Bryon.”

“Aye. Likewise. Now on to business,” Bryon replied. “What exactly do you need and how much are you willing to pay?”

“The logs you are splitting are about a foot long and five inches wide?”

“Nine by six give or take a tenth or two.”

“That’s perfect. How thin could you split a piece without it breaking?”

“Don’t rightly know. I’ve never tried.”

“Would you mind trying?”

“Are you paying?”

“Yeah, I’m paying. Just for trying I’ll give you a copper.”

“Deal,” Bryon agreed. He picked up a hatchet from beside the pile, squatted, and chopped down into the wood. He kept going until he had cut off a thin slice of the wood. It was about 3/10s of an inch thick. “How’s that?”

Jim took the slice of wood from the man. After a moment of testing the weight, looking it over, and thinking about what he needed, Jim said, “This works. Can you make 15 more the same?”

“Depends on how much you’re paying.”

“I gave you one copper to try. Let’s say 19 more coppers for the lot. That gives you a total of 20 copper coins.”

“Deal,” Bryon agreed. He started splitting more wood. “I hope whatever you want these for will make your coin back.”

“I think it will.”

*

“Hi Karim,” Jim greeted the merchant as he entered the man’s shop.

“Hey Jim. Are you planning on renting space?”

“No. Don’t want to sleep on your floor again either,” Jim grinned as he replied. “I’m wondering if you have some sturdy fabric or light leather pieces.”

“What for?”

“I have an idea for a new product and need something to cover it with.”

“Ok.”

“Let me show you what I have in mind,” Jim told the other merchant as he started pulling parchment and the slim pieces of wood from his ring and set them on the counter. “What I want to do is make a book of sorts. We cut the parchment in half or a little smaller. Next, put three holes in the cut pages at equal distances from one end. Then loop some sturdy wire through the holes to hold the pages together.”

“What’s the wood and leather or fabric for?”

“To use as a book cover and a pad for writing in the book.”

“What’s the point of this book?”

“Taking notes, doing inventory, writing messages, that sort of thing.”

“Interesting idea.”

“I think so too. I’m going to call them notebooks.”

“I have some light leather that should work, and Violet can sew it shut.”

“Wire I cannot help with.”

“Does the village have a blacksmith?”

“Ha! There are dwarves and a mine here. Of course, there are blacksmiths here.”

“Near the mine?”

“Yes. The smithy is right beside it.”

“Makes sense. Less distance to have to haul ore.”

“How many of these notebooks are you planning on making?”

“Four. Fifty pages in each.”

“You have me interested. Violet and I will help you put them together between customers for two of the notebooks plus 25 coppers.”

“Is the coin to pay you or cover the costs of your materials?”

“Costs.”

“Fair enough. We have a deal.”

“Plus, after seeing how you make these notebooks, we can do the same if there is a demand for them.”

“True,” Jim agreed. Jim headed to the door. “I’ll head to the mine and be back as quick as I can.”

*

“Bryon? You’re a blacksmith? I thought you were a woodcutter?”

“Ha! Good to see ya again Jim. Nah, I’m no woodcutter. I was cutting firewood for my house when you found me this morning. Making extra coin is always appreciated though. And yes, I’m one of the blacksmiths.”

“Good. If you can do what I need, you’ll take more of my coin.”

“Sounds good. What do you need?”

“First I need three metal rings or pieces of stiff wire that will hold a circle shape,” Jim answered. Bryon walked over to a pile of scrap metal and came back with a piece of wire.

“Something like this?” he asked as he handed the wire to Jim. Jim bent the wire. It was too flimsy for what he wanted. Jim bent a little loop at each end and used it to hold a circular shape.

“How I looped the ends is what I have in mind to hold it together so it is easy to open or close, but the wire will need to be sturdier and the length half of this.”

“Aye. I can do that, and it won’t take long,” Bryon replied. “How many do you need?”

“12. Karim might come asking for some later as well.”

“Scotty! Warm up the forge and bring me a spool of the number 3 wire. I have work for you to do.”

Jim jumped and barely kept himself from covering his ears. The dwarf’s shout took him by surprise and hurt his head thanks to his enhanced hearing. “Scotty is your apprentice?”

“Aye. What else do you need?”

Jim pulled a quill from his ring. “I was wondering if you could make me something to write with.”

“You have a quill. What more do you need?”

“Something better. I’ll need two if you can do make it. And Karim may come asking for some later as well.”

“Alright. Here is some parchment and ink. Draw me a sketch of what you have in mind while you explain it to me,” the blacksmith instructed. Jim spent the next few minutes explaining what a fountain pen is and doing his best to draw one.

“That’s basically it.”

“I can do that. It’ll take all afternoon though.”

“That’s fine. I’ll take the wire hoops with me and work on the project I need them for with Karim and Violet. I’ll come back in four hours or so and we can settle up.”

“I’m not sure what to charge you, so we can discuss price when you see the finished items.”

“Works for me. We have a deal.”

“Anything else?”

“Who do I see about buying some ore or metal ingots?” Jim asked after a short silence.

Chapter 13

Jim returned to Karim’s an hour or so after he left. Karim had cut the parchment in half and had holes in about half of the pages when Jim returned. Violet had one cover done as well. “Wow! You guys are fast.”

“Aye. Business has been slow so far today, so we were able to get some work done,” Karim agreed. Violet even had holes in the cover to line up with the pages.

“Let’s see if this works,” Jim said while taking the completed cover from his fellow merchant’s wife. “Thank you.”

“You’re welcome.”

“It took you a while,” Karim observed.

“Yeah. Sorry about that. It took Bryon’s apprentice a while to make the hoops I wanted,” Jim explained. “I also talked to the mine’s manager and bought 5 gold worth of ore and ingots.”

“How much did you get?”

“25 steel ingots and 50 iron ingots as well as 50 pounds of iron ore.”

“The mine sold you that much?” Violet asked with a raised eyebrow.

“I was very persuasive,” Jim replied with a grin. This earned a laugh from Karim and his wife.

“Did you level or something?”

“Maybe, hopefully. I haven’t checked. I’ll do so after I see if this works or not. Honestly, I think they took pity on me and that the guards let them know about my run in with the bandits,” Jim answered. Karim nodded as Jim took a stack of the pages and counted off 50. Jim put the pages inside the cover and lined up the holes. Next, he took out three of the hoops and opened them. He forced one hoop through each hole and was barely able to close the ends. Giving it a try, Jim opened the crude notebook and shut it. Then he opened it and flipped the top cover around. It wasn’t as good as a modern spiral notebook, but it would suffice. Jim closed the notebook and held it out to Karim and Violet. “Take a look and see what you think.”

Karim took the notebook and tried it out like Jim had. Violet took the notebook from her husband and flipped the top cover and held it so she could mime writing on it. After a moment she said, “I see what you were saying about how this would be useful.”

“Aye,” Karim agreed.

“Good. So, you agree that it is worth the expense and effort?” Jim asked.

“Aye.”

“Great! I have one more surprise to show you if Bryon finishes it today as he promised.”

“What kind of surprise,” Violet asked.

“One that you two can sell.”

“Jim, what is it?” Karim asked.

“Fine,” Jim huffed after a mock glare from Karim. “It’s a new writing implement.”

“We have quills for writing,” Violet rebuffed.

“This is far beyond the quill and if it works, it’ll work far better than a quill.”

“Jim has been right so far. Let’s give this surprise a chance too,” Karim told his wife.

“True.”

“Great. Thanks for the vote of confidence!” Jim replied. “Let’s finish these other three notebooks.”

*

While the husband and wife ran their shop, Jim had fooled around with a few ideas and even sketched an idea in one of his notebooks after they had finished them. Ingrid, the owner of the Sleepy Miner Inn, had come in to buy some popcorn and had purchased one of Karim’s two notebooks for five silver coins after she had watched Jim for a few minutes.

“What’s that?” Violet asked about the drawing Jim had done. She was looking over his shoulder.

“An idea for a wagon when I have the money to have it built,” Jim answered. The sketched wagon was his take on a Gypsy wagon. The concept wagon was 12 ft long by 7 ft wide by 6 ft tall. The roof was rounded. The door was at the front along with a small 2 ft porch that doubled as the driving seat. The wagon had windows at the rear wall and on each side. A single-size bed rested against the rear wall.

Jim planned for the bed to have storage space as well as a slide out table under it. The first five feet on the right side would be a tiny bathroom. Mostly it would be a toilet and hopefully a standup shower. Jim hoped to find an enchanter or mage that could do something about the waste as well as supply water.

The first five feet on the left side would be a tiny kitchen. Mostly just a sink, if he could find a person to do the enchanting, as well as small stove. The stove would serve to heat the wagon when it was cold as well as being how he cooked. The rest of the space would be used for storage or to sit. Jim figured that he could have seats built into the walls opposite the pull-out table and use the space under them for storage. Since storage rings are a thing, he figured he could get an enchanter to do the same to the shelves and drawers in the wagon so he could store a lot more merchandise and supplies.

“Interesting idea,” Violet said. Jim made a couple of changes. He added an overhang at the front and rear to keep rain off. Next, he lowered the porch and added a seat to the right side of the door. Finally, Jim added front and rear brakes with levers inside for the rear one and beside the driver’s seat for the front brake. “What are those things you just added?”

“Brakes.”

“What are those?” Karim asked as he walked over and looked at Jim’s design.

“You guys don’t have brakes?” Jim asked. Both shook their head in the negative. “How do you stop wagons?”

“Slow the horses, bison, or oxen pulling the wagon until they stop,” Karim replied.

“Brakes are metal attachments over the wagon wheels that descend until they touch the wheel when you push the lever forward. The more you push, the more the metal pushes against the wheels. This will stop the wagon.”

Karim and Violet exchanged looks. “Jim where are you really from? Some of the guards came by while you were at the mine and talked about you this morning.”

“This will take a little while and you probably won’t believe me,” Jim replied.

“We want to know,” Violet told him. “Your ideas are far different than anything ever seen in Stormgion that we have heard about.”

“We know this is a small village, but word does spread around,” Karim added.

“I’m a traveler from a different world.”

“Be serious,” Violet replied.

“I am. Sit and I’ll tell my story.”

*

“Bryon, are you done with my pens?”

“Aye,” the blacksmith replied with a grin. He gestured to a bench to his right. “Take a gander and let me know what you think. Blasted things were not easy to make.”

The pen was basic. Jim picked up one of the fountain pens and removed the cap. Sort of crude, but the tip should work. Jim unscrewed the other end and added some ink. Reattaching the end, Jim pulled out his notebook and tried the pen. It worked! “Yes!”

“Glad you like it.”

“I love it!” Jim exclaimed. “You keep grinning. Did you level or something?”

“Aye. Both me and the lad did,” Bryon answered as he gestured to his apprentice. “So, I’ve decided to give you a deal because of that.”

“How much are we talking?”

“10 silver for each.”

“Done,” Jim replied and paid the smith. “As I said earlier today, Karim might want some as well.”

“That’s good. I’ll work out a deal with him if he does. Anything else you need?”

“Yeah. Three things. How many pens can you make tomorrow? Is there a butcher or someone that sells bison meat around here?”

“Aye. Head back to the village and take a right turn. Keep going straight and you’ll find the butcher on the outskirts of the village. Folks don’t like the smell.”

“I can imagine.”

“As for how many I can make, well, say ten by midafternoon now that I know what I’m doing.”

“Same price?”

“Aye.”

“Thanks! Here is a gold. I’ll pick them up tomorrow afternoon,” Jim replied.

“What’s the third thing?”

“Have you ever seen a fishing hook?”

“Aye. They are curved and sharp. You have to be lucky to get a fish up.”

“That’s what I thought. Let me show you a new style hook,” Jim said as he pulled out his pen and notebook. After a quick sketch, he showed the smith a barbed hook. “This will work a lot better.”

“I think I see what you mean. I’ll need to make a mold. Leave me that drawing will ya?” The smith said. Jim pulled the page out of his notebook. “The lad could then make them like he does nails while I work on the pens.”

“Alright. 100 hooks and the pens for 1 gold and 50 silver coins,” Jim offered.

“Done,” Bryon agreed after a moment’s thought. Jim figured the smith thought he might gain another level for doing something else new.

“Alright. I’ll return this time tomorrow,” Jim agreed as he left the smithy.

*

“You have a big smile on your face Jim. I take it Bryon had what you wanted,” Karim said in lieu of a greeting as Jim returned to the shop.

“Indeed, he had, but that is not why I’m smiling.”

“Oh? Then what has you smiling?”

“Do you guys have any bread?”

“Yes. I baked some this morning,” Violet answered.

“Perfect. I stopped by the butcher and got him to ground up some bison for me. He had to pound the meat as he had never heard of ground meat before,” Jim started to explain.

“We haven’t either,” Karim pointed out.

“That’s fine.”

“Before you go that far, let’s see this surprise you had been talking about.”

“I had almost forgot about it,” Jim replied as he pulled one of the pens from his inventory. He showed the couple how it worked and how much better it wrote than a quill.

“I want one,” Violet said.

“Me too,” Karim replied to his wife. “These will sell.”

“Yep,” Jim agreed. “Want to trade the pen for some of your goods?”

I’m going to treat you two to something called hamburgers,” Jim replied with an even bigger smile. Jim pulled up his character sheet and stats.

{

Jim Merchant

Health: 120

Stamina: 120

Class: Merchant(2)

Skills: Inspect(4)

Haggling(5)

Harvesting(1)

Invention(2)

}

{Strength-6, Endurance-6, Dexterity-6, Charisma-8, Intelligence-8, Wisdom-7, Luck-7}

Chapter 14

Jim set out from Rock Hope heading to Catfish Landing two mornings later with an additional 50 silver worth of merchandise from Karim. Half of it was farm implements such as shovels, rakes, and hoes. The rest was five sets of cheap, but decent armor. Jim had the 75 ingots and 50 pounds of ore he got from the mine. He also had 11 fountain pens and 100 barb fishing hooks from Bryon as well as his other ring plus 10 gold and 50 silvers in coins. The rest of his coin had been spent. The cheaper stuff was in his Traveler’s Pack while the more expensive items were in his ring along with the ingots and ore. The rest of the merchandise he had was the potions, rope, various seeds, trail rations, and fabric he had gotten from the guards and Karim.

Jim had his personal gear and food in his ring as well. He was pleasantly surprised to discover that the storage rings kept food and items in the condition they were in when placed into storage. Therefore, he had two pounds of ground bison as well as a loaf of bread in perfect condition as well. Jim mused he just needed some gravy and rice or beans, tomato sauce, and spices. Jim had worked several odd jobs while in college, short order cook, waiter, retail, and even construction.

Jim used his enhanced senses to avoid animals along the road. Well, road was being generous. It was a well-worn footpath. Nonetheless, it would get him where he wanted to go eventually. The first day and night passed by without incident. So did the second day. Jim camped in secluded spots off the road, but close enough to hopefully avoid the more aggressive animals. About noon the third day, his luck took a turn for the worse.

Jim heard two men talking further up the trail. He stopped and listened. One was complaining about the lack of travelers while the other complained about the lack of whores in the Catfish Landing area. Jim focused on the sides of the path and spotted the men hiding amongst some trees. Both wore a couple of pieces of armor above rough clothing. More bandits. Jim tried using Inspect on one of them.

{Justin Level 3 Human Rogue}

Jim decided to avoid the bandits and detour around them. Jim went around the bandits until he could only hear them lowly. This proved to be a mistake. A low huffing sound was his warning. Him stopped and looked around. A large white mound moved. Jim used Inspect.

{Kodiak Cave Bear Level 8}

Holy shit! For a split second Jim thought the system was messing with him due to the name, but then he remembered that the system changed things into English for him. Another fleeting thought was that change included the spoken language unless everyone on this planet spoke English. Jim chided himself to focus. The bear growled. Jim backed up slowly. The bear growled again and stood on its hindlegs. The bear was at least 10 feet. Jim’s mind blanked, he turned, and ran. The bear pursued.

A few minutes later Jim found a tree that he was able to climb. The bear followed and growled as it spotted Jim in the tree. Jim remembered a line from a movie where one guy told the other that he just had to be faster than the other to escape a bear or some such. Too bad he didn’t have someone else around. A second later Jim remembered he did. The bandits were nearby. Inspiration came to Jim like lightning.

Jim pulled some of the bison from his ring and balled it up. He tossed it at the bear. The bear ate it and started sniffing for more. Listening as much as he could, Jim was able to hear the bandits. He was closer than he thought. Jim tossed another bison ball a few feet away from the bear. The bear followed its nose to the morsel. One more ball got the bear about ten feet from the tree. Jim quickly climbed down and ran in the direction of the bandits. The bear pursued.

*

“Logan and Owen need to relieve us. I’m hungry and bored,” complained Liam.

“Shut it!” snapped Justin. “Anyone passing by will hear you.”

“You can’t tell me what to do. You’ve only been with Logan for a few days longer than I have,” retorted Liam.

“I said shut up.”

“Make me.”

“It’ll be my pleasure,” replied Justin. Before either man could swing at the other, Jim crossed the trail and burst into the woods where they hid. Jim stopped. Both men looked at him. “You! Drop your pack and we’ll let you live.”

“Yeah!” agreed Liam. Jim stared at the two. “He’s not listening.”

“Take it from him.”

“Logan! Owen! We got one!” screamed Liam. A huffing noise came from behind Jim. Two other bandits ran into the little clearing.

“What do we have here?” asked the larger and better armored man. “Give us your wares merchant.”

“No,” Jim replied. “I’ll give you a Kodiak Cave Bear though.”

“What?” asked the fourth man. A growling sounded behind Jim. The merchant took off running directly toward the men. They parted enough for Jim to dash between them. The bear emerged and charged the bandits. Jim kept running and left the bandits to deal with the bear. He climbed another nearby tree.

Inspecting the bandits showed none of them was over level 5. None escaped the bear’s fury either. The bear had taken some stabs and other wounds, mostly from the rogue. A few minutes later the Kodiak was eating from one of the corpses. The bear eventually laid down and rolled onto its side. It didn’t move again. Jim checked a notification.

{Congratulations! You have reached level 3. You have discovered Strategy and Tactics.}

“I must have been given credit for their deaths somehow,” Jim mused to himself. He pulled up his sheet and saw he had 10 points to distribute. Jim dumped four points into Charisma, two points into Intelligence, and one point into Dexterity. The last three he put into Luck.

{

Jim Merchant

Health: 130

Stamina: 130

Class: Merchant(3)

Skills: Inspect(4)

Haggling(5)

Harvesting(1)

Invention(2)

Strategy(1)

Tactics(1)

}

{Strength-6, Endurance-6, Dexterity-7, Charisma-12, Intelligence-10, Wisdom-7, Luck-10}

Jim stayed in the tree another hour before climbing down. The Kodiak was not breathing. Jim assumed the rogue had used poison on his blades because it did not look like the bear had sustained any major wounds to Jim’s untrained eye. He decided to check the bandits for anything useful.

Approaching the first corpse, Jim threw up until he had nothing left in his stomach. After the dry heaves passed Jim took a waterskin out of his ring and rinsed out his mouth. He took a swallow and returned the skin to the ring. He approached the corpse again.

{Would you like to loot this corpse? Y/N}

Well, that was neat. At least Jim didn’t have to touch the mangled body. Jim looted the bear and other three corpses. He then left the clearing. Jim did not want to be around if any scavengers showed up.

The bandits did not have much on them. Some copper coins, two poison steel daggers, an iron axe and sword, plus a yew bow. Their armor wasn’t worth anything as the bear had destroyed it. Jim tossed the scrap. A part of Jim wanted to try and find the bandits’ camp to see if there was more loot, but the rest of him decided against it as he was afraid of finding more bandits. So, Jim continued onto Catfish Landing instead.

Chapter 15

Unlike Rock Hope, Catfish Landing had a wall and gate. It was just past sunset when Jim arrived at the village and the gate was shut. Jim didn’t see any guards on the wall. This did not fill Jim with confidence. Were the villagers worried about bandits, animals, or monsters? Maybe all three. “That’s just lovely.”

Looking around Jim spotted a tall tree a short distance from the wall. Jim got the bright idea to climb it and investigate the village. If he could spot the temple, he should be brought back here instead of Rock Hope if anything bad were to happen. Jim climbed the tree easier than he expected. “Must be that extra point in dexterity. And why am I talking to myself so much?”

Jim used Inspect on every building in the village. Catfish Landing was about the same size as Rock Hope. The village had a square with temple just like Rock Hope. The temple wasn’t as large and made of wood instead of stone, so it took Jim a moment or two to identify it. The village only had one shop and it was located at the docks. Jim supposed that made sense as it would allow easy of cargo moving to and from boats that used the river.

Jim stayed in the tree for another half hour as he scanned the village and filled in his map. Besides the shop and temple, the only other buildings that he was interested in was the butcher at the far end of the village and the inn. It was also near the docks.

Jim climbed down from the tree. It was too dark for him to setup his tent, so he pulled out his bedroll and spread it out. Jim had liked camping on occasion while on earth, but this was starting to get old. The bedroll not being as comfortable as a modern sleeping bag was a large part of that. Having to worry about animals, monsters, or bandits was another. Jim sighed and closed his eyes.

*

Thankfully, the night passed without incident. Jim was sore and fairly sure he smelled. Walking through the blood and such from the bandits and bear battle couldn’t have been good for his hygiene. The sun was just coming up and the gate still closed, so Jim decided to make breakfast from his trail rations. Breakfast ended up a simple porridge that was bland, but filling. Jim considered walking to the river to wash his cooking equipment and utensils but decided against it since he didn’t know what lurked near the water. Instead, he used water from one of his waterskins to do so. Jim gathered up his things, took care of necessary business, and then walked to the gate.

While waiting for the guards to open the gate, Jim decided to do a better check of the loot he picked up the day before. Jim Inspected each item repeatedly for half an hour.

{Congratulations! Inspect has reached level 5.}

Finally! Jim Inspected the sword and axe once more.

{Iron Sword Level 1 Value 5 Silvers}

{Iron Axe Level 2 Value 7 Silvers}

Neat! Inspect now showed values. Jim checked the rest of the loot.

{Poison Steel Dagger *2 Level 3 Value 50 Silvers each}

{Kodiak Cave Bear Pelt Level 8 Value 5 Gold}

{Kodiak Cave Bear Claw *2 Level 8 Value 25 Silvers each}

That is a nice haul Jim thought. Hopefully, somebody here would buy at a good price. The gate finally opened a short while later. Two guards took up position on each side of the gateway.

“State your name and business,” the male guard demanded as Jim stood. He had been sitting in the middle of the path. “You’re not from around here.”

“Jim Merchant. I’m here to sell my wares. I might buy merchandise that catches my eye as well. I’m also open to trades.”

“I’m Asher and that is my partner Ella, the guard replied. “You’re pretty low level.”

“Yeah,” Jim agreed. “I’m just starting out on the merchant’s path.”

“I don’t suppose you have anything good,” Ella commented.

“I have a few things that might interest you.”

“Oh? Do tell.”

“I have a few minor health and mana potions, fabric, trail rations, seed, farm implements, and other common goods,” Jim started only for Ella to roll her eyes. He continued, “I also have some unique items such as fountain pens and barbed fishhooks.”

“What are those?” Asher asked. Jim pulled a fishhook from his ring and handed it to the guard.

“That is a barbed fishhook. Notice the barb. It keeps fish on the hook better than the rounded hooks that I understand are common to the area.”

“Sharp,” Asher observed after testing the hook. He handed it back to Jim. “The fishermen will love those if they work.”

“This is a fountain pen,” Jim stated as he put the hook back into his ring and withdrew one of the pens. Ella took it to examine. “It is used for writing. It is not as sloppy as a quill and writes better as well.”

“Can I see how it works?” Ella asked.

“Sure,” Jim answered and pulled out his notebook. He flipped to a new page and handed it to the guard. “This is a notebook. I only have one other currently though. Give it a try.”

Jim showed the two guards how to remove the cap and fill the pen with ink. Ella then tried it out.

“You were not lying. This pen does work better than a quill. The notebook is nice too,” she observed. “I want one. How much are you charging for them?”

Jim took the notebook and pen back. “25 silvers for a pen.”

“That’s a lot!” Ella exclaimed.

“It is sort of pricey,” Jim agreed. “It’s a totally new thing though. Plus, only two or three other people currently have them that I know of. And they are in Rock Hope.”

“Ok, but I want the other notebook and the pen for 25 silvers.”

“Is there a merchant here?” Jim asked dodging the offer for a moment. He knew there was but didn’t think the guards would look kindly on him spying out the village if he admitted to doing so.

“Yes,” Asher replied.

“Does he sell parchment and leather?”

“I think he sells parchment to the headman and priestess,” Ella answered. “I know he deals in leather. Why?”

“Is there a smith and someone that sells wood?”

“You didn’t answer her question, but yes to both. There is also a carpenter and inn,” Asher supplied.

“Perfect. I will show you how to make a notebook if you buy the pen for 25 silvers. You can then haggle with the others for the supplies needed to make one,” Jim counteroffered.

“Deal,” Ella replied after a moment. “But I want a pen with ink in it.”

“Fine,” Jim replied with a smile. He pulled out another pen and filled it with ink. He handed the pen to the guard, and she handed him the money. “Can I setup a stand in the village square or at the docks?”

“Yes. Other traveling merchants do.”

“Great,” Jim said. “Can you tell me how to get to the carpenter? I need some wood and a table so I can setup my stand.”

Chapter 16

“I’m Nora,” the carpenter introduced herself. Nora was a very pretty elf with long red hair and bright blue eyes, which Jim found surprising for some reason.

“I’m Jim,” he replied. “If you don’t mind me saying, I haven’t seen many elves in these parts.”

“I don’t mind. Most of us live in the eastern forests where the trees are much larger and plentiful.”

“What brought you to Catfish Landing?”

“My husband and I wanted to try and cultivate the forest here. That and cedar trees. Cedar is not found in the eastern forests, so we moved out here so I could work with the wood,” Nora replied and gestured to a chair. It was a simple, rustic, midback dinning chair with arms made from logs. It was quite beautiful, and Jim suspected that the chair would command a high price in America.

“That is a very lovely chair,” Jim praised her work. “Is it for sale?”

“Aye.”

“Do you have a table you would sell as well?”

“Of course,” Nora answered and gestured to a matching table a few feet from them.

“That is lovely too,” Jim commented. The table was five ft long, three ft wide, and came up to Jim’s waist. Jim shook it. The table was quite sturdy. He decided he wanted it. “How much for the table and chair?”

“I haven’t seen you around before.”

“I’m a traveling merchant that is just starting out,” Jim answered. I plan to setup in the square or at the docks. I want to use the table to display my wares.”

“One gold,” Nora answered after a moment’s thought.

“50 silvers,” Jim countered.

“Ha! It took days to build the table and chair. 90 silvers are as low as I could go.”

“Make it 60 silvers and I’ll throw in a fountain pen, which I think you’ll find quite useful.”

“What is a fountain pen?”

“This,” Jim replied as he took his pen from his ring. Jim also pulled out his notebook. Nora marveled at the pen and notebook as Jim showed her how they worked. “Try it.”

Nora took the notebook and pen and tried them. She laughed in delight. “Much better than using a quill.”

“Yes,” Jim agreed. Nora flipped the notebook’s pages and found Jim’s wagon sketch.

“What’s this?”

“A plan for the future,” Jim answered. He then explained what he intended the wagon for.

“That makes a lot of sense. You’ll need an enchanter for the indoor outhouse and storage spaces. You’ll also need a good smith to build this stove of yours. I could do the inside woodwork. Wyatt, my husband, is a wainwright, but works as one of the village guards since there isn’t much call for his craft around here. He could build the wagon itself.”

“Did you see my brake idea?”

“He would need a blacksmith to help with that.”

“Is the smith here good enough to build the stove and braking system?”

“Aye. Jaxon is good enough. He mostly makes weapons, nails, or fishhooks,” Nora answered.

“That’s great,” Jim said. Privately he wondered if this was happening too fast but decided to go with the flow. “I have business to discuss with him anyway.”

“Good. Let’s get back to business for a moment then. I’ll take the pen and 60 silvers in exchange for the table and chair.”

“That’s a deal,” Jim agreed.

“I want a notebook as well,” Nora informed Jim.

“That is something else I wanted to talk to you about,” Jim replied. He explained the cover and how they had used wood to make it.

“I can do that. You might not even need the leather covering,” Nora said after a short pause. “Eli!”

“Yes mama?” a young boy asked as he appeared as if by magic.

“Go, find your father. Tell him I need him. Then go and get Jaxon as well,” Nora instructed her son. The boy looked at Jim and took off running. “I hope he doesn’t tell Wyatt I’m in danger.”

“Me too. I don’t want to face an angry husband.”

“Don’t worry. I’ll keep my husband in check. Why don’t you try out your chair in the meantime?” Nora replied.

“Don’t mind if I do,” Jim answered as he paid the carpenter for the table and chair. He gave her a new pen and filled it with ink after taking back his pen. Nora tried the new pen and nodded in satisfaction. Jim touched the table and willed it into his ring. He then took it back out.

“That is handy too,” Nora said. Do you have a storage ring you want to sell?”

“Maybe,” Jim replied as he sat in his chair.

“It’ll be a short wait while Eli gets the Wyatt and Jaxon. Would you like some tea while we wait?”

“Thank you. That would be fantastic.”

*

“Get away from my wife!” Wyatt shouted in anger at Jim as he entered the workshop. Jaxon, Eli, and another guard trailed the elf. Jim was sitting and threw his hands up.

“Jim, put your hands down. Wyatt, calm down,” Nora instructed the two men. She turned a disapproving look to her son. “Eli, I said I needed your father, not that I was in trouble.”

The boy looked sheepish and shrugged. “Sorry mama.”

“Go play,” Nora ordered the boy.

“Ok!” Eli shouted and took off out the door.

“What’s this about Nora?” Jaxon asked. “I have nails and hooks to make.”

“Wyatt, Jaxon, this is Jim. He’s a traveling merchant with an interesting wagon he wants built. Why don’t you two have a seat and I’ll get you some tea. Jim can explain what he wants,” Nora said. She flipped Jim’s notebook to the wagon sketch. She sat it on the Jim’s table. “Here is a drawing of it.”

Wyatt and Jaxon pulled up chairs to the table. Nora left the men so she could get the tea. The other guard left after seeing that everything was ok. Jaxon was a dwarf but didn’t have the thick beard that those Jim had met in Rock Hope had.

“This is an interesting design. What do you have in mind?” Wyatt asked.

“What is this brake and stove? Jaxon asked as the blacksmith seized on the parts he would have to make.

“It’s like this…”

*

Wyatt looked at Jaxon and his wife. After getting nods from both, he addressed Jim. “Aye, we can build this wagon.”

“That’s great.”

“Let’s discuss price. I want 12 gold for Nora’s and my part. Jaxon will need three gold coins.” Wyatt stated. “That’s 15 gold coins which includes our supplies and labor.

“That seems a bit expensive,” Jim hedged.

“Not really. Not only will I build your stove and brake system, but I will make the nails, braces, and hinges too. Plus, there is the wagon tongue and iron for the wheels,” Jaxon explained. “We will also have to find a way to seal around your stovepipe. I will also put in water pipes and forge your sink.”

“Alright,” Jim replied and held up his hands. “I can pay you the three gold now, but I don’t have 12 gold to pay Nora and Wyatt. Would all of you be willing to trade for part of my payment?”

“Depends on what you are trading,” Wyatt answered for the three craftspeople.

“Nora had asked earlier if I had another storage ring. I have one I am willing to trade. It’s a minor storage ring like mine,” Jim explained and held up his hand to show the ring. He still had his Traveler’s Pack after all. “It is worth five gold.”

Wyatt and Nora exchanged a look. Nora replied for the couple. “We’ll take four gold off our price for the ring.”

“I also have this,” Jim said as he pulled out the Kodiak Cave Bear hide.

“You killed that beast?” Wyatt asked. The guards had been warning people to avoid the deeper parts of the forest because of the bear.

“I didn’t fight it, but I am responsible for its demise as well as four bandits.”

“How are your responsible if you didn’t fight it?” Jaxon asked. Jim explained what happened between the bear and bandits.

“That was some quick thinking,” Nora praised Jim. Wyatt and Jaxon nodded in agreement.

“Thanks.”

“We can take off another five gold for the pelt,” Wyatt said after exchanging another look with his wife. The bear had been an increasing problem. It being dead saved the guards from having to hunt it down. Wyatt also knew Nora could turn the pelt into a rug, which they could sell to the headman or passing merchant for at least ten gold.

“So, three gold, the pelt, and ring for your parts?” Jim asked to clarify.

“Aye.”

“Then we have a deal,” Jim agreed and pulled out the other storage ring. He handed it to Nora. “Do you know how to bind it?”

“Yes. I’ll do so now,” Nora answered as she walked into the shop’s backroom again.

“What are you going to trade me?” Jaxon asked.

“Would knowledge of a couple of new items be worth something to you?”

“If it is knowledge I can use to forge or make things to sell, sure,” Jaxon answered with a grin.

“Ok. The stove is one thing. I think people would like to have them once they see they can cook more things at once instead of having to always use a fire. “The second thing is something I call a grill. It is also something used to cook on.” Finally, there is barbed fishhooks. Those should sell well here and at Swift River.”

“I’m interested. Show me what you have in mind,” Jaxon replied as a happy Nora returned. Jim produced a hook and gave it to the smith. After examining the hook, Jaxon said, “If these work the way I think they should, these will sell very well even at five silvers each.”

“Good. I have 100 of them to sell. Well, 99. I’ll let you have that one,” Jim stated.

“Thank ye,” Jaxon replied. “Now, show me this grill thing.”

“Ok,” Jim said. He sketched a simple round grill with removable top sitting on a tripod. “The grate/cooking service lifts out so wood or charcoal can be placed in the bottom.”

“And you can cook meat right on the grate?” Nora asked.

“Yes. Some vegetables can be grilled as well,” Jim answered as he pulled the page out of his notebook. He started sketching a simple stove and oven.

“Jaxon, if you can make this grill, we would like one,” Wyatt told the smith.

“Just make sure you use it outside,” Jim warned. “That or you would need a way to remove smoke from the room.”

“Like the pipe in your wagon design?” Nora asked.

“Yeah,” Jim answered as he finished the quick drawing. He turned the notebook so the others could see the sketch. “This is a stove and oven. I think a heat enchantment of some sort is the only way it will work as I want though.”

“I could probably make one of these grills in three hours or so,” Jaxon said after looking over the stove drawing. “This stove will take longer, and I don’t know any enchanters.”

“Billings might know one,” Wyatt offered.

“Who is Billings?” Jim asked.

“Our merchant. He can get enchanted weapons or items if asked,” Nora answered. “You guys can finish talking. I’m going to start on those wood pieces for the notebooks. Jim, I’ll send Eli or come find you when I’m done.”

“Ok. What about price though?”

“We’ll discuss it later. I want to see what I can do first.”

“Ok.”

“I need to get back to patrolling,” Wyatt said after kissing his wife. Nora had already put the pelt in her ring. “I’ll start on the wagon in two or three days, Jim. It’ll probably take a month to build. Maybe more.”

“That’s fine. I need to make some more money first and find some horses or oxen or something to pull it anyway.

“Come on lad. Let’s head to the smithy and we can discuss things further,” Jaxon told Jim as he stood. Jim stood and put the table and chair into his ring.

“Right. Lead the way,” Jim agreed. “I need to talk to Billings too.”

Chapter 17

Jaxon agreed to do the notebook loops Jason wanted for 2 coppers each. Jim realized that Bryon had never actually charged him for the 12 he and his assistant had made. Jim shrugged it off. If he visited Rock Hope again, he would pay the smith then. Jim ordered 100 loops from Jaxon. The smith assured Jim that his apprentices would have them done by midafternoon.

Jaxon promised to have the first grill ready in three hours or so and he would deliver it to Jim at his stand. Jim promised the smith a hamburger and that they would settle up at that point for the grill. Jaxon wanted to see if others were interested in the grill before deciding if he would decide about giving Jim a discount on the wagon parts or not. Jim figured the smith also wanted to see how much interest the grill earned before charging him for it too. He didn’t blame the dwarf since it was something he would do too.

Billings turned out to be the merchant’s last name. His first name was Charles. Charles charged Jim two coppers per parchment sheet. They were the same size as what he had gotten from Viktous. Jim bought all the merchant would sell which ended up being 300 sheets. Charles had a paper cutter that he offered to let Jim use for 10 coppers. Jim paid the fee and spent an hour cutting the pages.

“What did you want all that parchment for just to cut it in half like that?” Charles asked when Jim was done.

“Making something to sell. Don’t scoff. You’ll want to give me some of my coin back when you see the finished product,” Jim promised with a grin. Jim had 4 gold coins, 2 silver coins, and 20 coppers after his sales, bandit looted coins, and expenses. “I’m going to setup my stand. Make sure you visit me in a little while. You might even spend some of your own coin.”

“Ha! We’ll see once you setup,” Charles agreed. Jim left the shop and found a place to setup his stand under a tree near the docks.

Jim used a bolt of blue fabric as a tablecloth and spread some of his wares on it. Jim displayed 20 of his fishhooks, 3 health potions, 2 bolts of fabric, 5 pens, the coil of rope, and some of the trail rations. He leaned a hoe, rake, and shovel against the table along with the iron sword and axe. He then plastered a smile on his face while waiting for potential customers.

*

Surprisingly, it was the kids that found Jim first. After thinking about it he decided he shouldn’t have been surprised. This made him wish he had some toys or at least candy. That was something to look into. Toys gave him an idea though. Jim added the slinky and spinning tops to his growing list of things to “invent”. One of the boys had a wood fishing pole and seemed intent on fishing on the other side of Jim’s tree.

“Hey, you with the pole. What’s your name?” Jim asked the boy. He could Inspect the boy but decided not to.

“Me?” the boy asked and pointed to himself.

“Yeah you. You’re the only boy around with a fishing pole.”

“Owen,” the boy hesitantly answered.

“Well met, Owen. My name is Jim Merchant,” Jim greeted the boy. Owen laughed at Jim’s last name.

“Is this stuff for sale?” Owen asked.

“Yes.”

“You’re a traveling merchant named Merchant. That’s funny,” Owen laughed.

“Yeah, it is. That’s why I chose the name when I got my class.”

After the boy got over his laughter, Owen asked Jim what he wanted. Jim asked to see his fishhook. It was a carved wood hook. It looked to be cracked as well.

“Owen, would you do me a favor?”

“Depends.”

“Good answer,” Jim replied. Owen smiled proudly. Jim held up one of his hooks for the boy to see. Owen reached for it. “Careful. It’s very sharp.”

“Ok,” Owen agreed. Jim handed him the hook. “This is a lot better than any hook I’ve ever seen. Mr Billings doesn’t offer anything like this.”

“I’ll give you this hook if you use it to fish with. If you catch fish, I want you to tell everyone you can about my hooks.”

“That is all I have to do for the hook? Just tell people about it?”

“That’s all,” Jim agreed. “Where I’m from we call that advertising.”

“Advertising?”

“Yes. That is when you pay someone to promote your product. My product is the hooks. I’m paying you by giving you that hook in exchange for telling everyone you know about it.”

“I see,” Owen replied. Jim saw that the boy did understand too. Owen slipped the knot that held his wood hook on the line and tied on the barbed hook.

“Does your dad fish?”

“Yes. Why do you ask?”

“The way you untied the wood hook and tied on the steel one,” Jim answered.

“This is steel?” Owen asked with wide eyes.

“Yes,” Jim answered. “I sell them for one silver coin. I know that may seem expensive, but as long as your line holds, the hook will last unlike a wooden one.”

“I can’t take it. It’s too expensive,” Owen objected.

“Nonsense. It’s fair pay for services rendered. You are testing it out and will advertise for me later,” Jim explained.

“Are you sure?”

“I’m sure,” Jim answered with a smile.

“Ok. Deal!” Owen yelled with a smile of his own.

*

Two hours later Jim had sold a bolt of purple fabric, the coil of rope, and three health potions for a whopping 10 silver. Several men had looked at the hooks, but none bothered to even try and haggle Jim off the price. They just smiled and walked off. Jim understood the village was on the poor side, but he was still disappointed. Him being a newcomer probably didn’t help either.

“Jim! I have your grill and loops,” Jaxon greeted the merchant.

“Hi Jaxon. That was faster than I expected.”

“Aye. Always under promise and over deliver.”

“Ain’t that the truth?” Jim replied. Jaxon set the grill down so Jim could look it over. “This looks a little different than my sketch.”

“Aye. I used a shield mold I have to speed things up,” Jaxon explained. “You have a sword and axe for sale?”

“Yeah. You want them?”

“Nah, I know a couple of guards that might be interested though.”

“Send them my way if you don’t mind.”

“I will. Here’s your loops,” Jaxon said and set the loops on the table. “Both my lads and I leveled up working on these.”

“That’s great! I’m happy for you,” Jim replied as he set the grate/grilling service back in place. “How much do I owe you?”

“Since we leveled, which was a very nice surprise, 25 silvers for the lot.”

“That’s a deal. I won’t even attempt to haggle with you,” Jim replied with a smile. He paid the smith. “Now, I just need some wood or charcoal.”

“I have you covered. This is on the house,” Jaxon informed Jim as he removed some charcoal from a bag tied to his belt.

“Is that a storage bag?”

“Aye,” Jaxon answered as he put the charcoal in the grill. “You want it lit?”

“Yes, please,” Jim replied. “I think I have enough ground bison for six burgers or so. I’ll need more bread though.”

“Can’t help ye with that.”

“I can,” Owen said. He came over with a string of fish. “My ma bakes bread and sells some of it.”

“How much does she charge?”

“Three coppers.”

“If you go get me a loaf of bread, I’ll pay you two coppers to bring it back.”

“Deal!”

“I see the hook is still on your line and you have a good catch too,” Jim observed.

“Oh. Yes sir. It worked great!” Owen gushed. “I never would have caught this many fish with my wooden hook. It would have broken.”

“You let Owen use one of your hooks?”

“I let him test it for me and I’m giving it to him in exchange for telling everyone about it.”

“Yeah. I’m going to advertise for Jim!”

“Advertise?”

“Tell everyone about his hook,” Owen explained.

“Here’s five coppers Owen.”

“Ok, the boy replied and took the coins. “I’ll be back soon.”

Jim and Jaxon watched the boy take off. A few villagers wandered over to investigate the grill. Jaxon held a waterskin while Jim washed his hands. The grill was large enough to hold the six burger patties and then some. Jim had just finished placing them on the grill when Owen returned.

“Here is the bread. Mom cut it in slices.”

“Thanks,” Jim said as he put the bread in his ring. It was fresh and smelled good. Jim handed Owen another copper. “Here is another copper for your mother since she cut the bread.”

“Thank you.”

“Owen, will you take my water skins to the well and fill them for me? I’ll pay you to do so.”

“Sure!” Owen answered. Jim gave him his waterskins.

“Don’t forget to tell people about the hooks,” Jim called out as the boy ran off.

*

Jim, Jaxon, and Owen were enjoying burgers when Nora found them. She showed Jim the wooden covers she had made. The wood was smooth, and Jim liked it better than the crude leather cover he had made in Rock Hope.

“How many of these have you made?”

“Six,” Nora answered. “Ten coppers for a pair.”

“That’s fair,” Jim answered after thinking it over. “Have a burger.”

The carpenter took the offered sandwich. “Is this bison?”

“Yes.”

“It’s good,” Nora said after taking a bite.

“Glad you like it. Can you make enough cover sets for 12 notebooks?”

“Yes,” Nora answered after finishing her burger. “Can I take one of those to Wyatt?”

“Yeah,” Jim answered and gave her the fifth burger. She put it in her ring after he told her the ring would keep it fresh. He cut up the last burger and gave it to some of the gathered villagers. “How fast can you have them done?”

“Tomorrow.”

“Great. Now I just need a way to put holes in the parchment.”

“I can do that,” Nora offered. “No charge either.”

“Thank you,” Jim replied and handed the parchment to her.

“I’ll be back in a little while,” Nora informed him. “Jaxon, I want a grill tomorrow.”

“Aye. I’ll work on it this afternoon.”

“Ok. I’ll pay whatever Jim pays you,” Nora told the smith before walking away.

“I’ll charge her 20 silvers,” Jaxon informed Jim.

“Why so cheap?”

“Because her and Wyatt are helping me make two gold from you,” Jaxon answered with a grin.

“Giving me a good discount, I see.”

“Aye. If your wagon and stove work as well as the grill, I’ll make a lot of coin. Plus, there are the hooks.”

“There is that” Jim agreed. Jaxon left after fielding some questions about the grill and letting them know he would be charging 25 silvers per grill. Jim just shook his head in amazement at the smith’s luck.

Chapter 18

Jim was sitting in the River Crawler Inn’s common room after a partially unsuccessful day waiting for the serving girl to bring him his fish stew. Jim had his notebook out sketching a caltrop. He had decided to ask Jaxon to make him as many as possible tomorrow. After finishing the drawing, Jim turned his mind over to pricing his notebooks.

Nora had brought Jim his freshly punctured parchment and the other wooden covers just before he packed his wares for the night. The covers were 10 coppers a pair. The parchment had been 2 coppers a page. Jim had cut those 300 pages in half, which meant 600 pages. Doing 50 pages to each notebook Jim figured would be 50 coppers worth of parchment. The loops cost 2 coppers each which meant 6 coppers per notebook. That was just the material cost. That didn’t include Jim’s labor for putting them together though. Two silvers per notebook would be a good price that he could let people haggle down to a silver and half. Jim smiled to himself as the guard Ella walked up to his table.

“Hi Jim. Judging by that smile I take it things went well today.”

“Hi Ella. Things went ok. I didn’t sell a lot, but I did get a lot done,” Jim answered. He gestured to the chair across from him. “Why don’t you join me? I did promise to show you how to make a notebook this morning.”

Ella smiled and took the offered seat. “That’s why I’m here.”

“Since my stew still hasn’t arrived, let’s get started,” Jim offered as he pulled out enough material to make two notebooks. Jim explained what he was doing as he put together a notebook. He once again informed the guard that she would have to haggle for the materials with Nora, Jaxon, and Charles Billings. The server brought Jim’s stew as he was finishing assembling the notebook.

“That isn’t a hard process,” Ella observed.

“No, it’s not,” Jim agreed. The server left and returned a moment later with a bowl of stew and mug of mead for Ella. The girl smiled at Ella, who smiled back, and left to tend another table. Jim frowned.

“Don’t mind her. You’re a newcomer,” Ella shrugged.

“It’s not the treatment so much as why I had to wait so long and you didn’t,” Jim complained.

“As I said you’re a newcomer and you’re a traveling merchant. You won’t be here long even if you stay a few days. Everyone else lives here,” Ella explained. “Everyone comes to the Crawler to drink and most also eat here nightly.”

“I take it few travelers like myself stay overnight and use the rooms upstairs?”

“A handful a year.”

“Is that why Milton tried to rip me off for a room?”

“Maybe. How much does he want?”

“Twenty copper a night not including meals.”

“Ouch.”

“I’m not paying that much.

“Going to camp out?”

“Nope. I told him I wouldn’t pay a copper over ten a night and that includes two meals.”

“Hahaha. No wonder Sena, his daughter, and the serving girl hasn’t served you as well as she should. It’s not about you being a newcomer so much as it is about Milton being mad over the price.”

“He’ll get over it. I plan on staying a couple more days, so he’ll make 20 or more copper than he had before I arrived,” Jim replied.

“That’s true,” Ella conceded. The two ate in companionable silence with the guard snatching peeks at the notebook materials on the table.

“You want to try your hand at putting together a notebook?” Jim asked after they finished eating.

“I do.”

“Go ahead,” Jim encouraged. He watched the guard put the notebook together easily enough over the next several minutes. “You did well.”

“Thanks. It was easier than it looked,” Ella said while playing with the notebook.

“You want it don’t you?”

“Yes,” the guard answered.

“I normally charge two silvers for a notebook,” Jim said. Ella’s eyes widened in surprise. “But since you provided the labor and have been a good dinner companion, I’ll let you have it for 70 coppers.”

“That’s still a little pricey.”

“It covers my materials though.”

“Fine,” Ella agreed after thinking it over. She handed Jim the money, picked up the notebook, and then stood. “I guess I’ll be going. My shift starts at sunrise.”

“Ella, do you or the guards have a map of the region I could look at?”

“We have a map of the kingdom in the barracks. Why not just buy one from Billings?”

“He wants too much for them and won’t even let anyone look at them unless they are buying. I asked him earlier,” Jim explained. He wanted to see more of the region and see how much of his map interface would fill in.

“Come to the barracks tomorrow at noon and I’ll show it to you.”

“Thanks. I’ll see you tomorrow.”

*

Breakfast the next morning had been better than the fish stew supper. Breakfast consisted of sausage, eggs, and a porridge that made Jim miss grits and rice. After breakfast, Jim started to Jaxon’s smithy. He wanted to get the smith to work on the caltrops and build him some grills to sell.

Jim was stopped by a few fishermen. He sold five hooks at a silver a piece. That made Jim incredibly happy. He checked his notices as he hadn’t done so last night.

{

Jim Merchant

Health: 130

Stamina: 130

Class: Merchant(3)

Skills: Inspect(5)

Haggling(7)

Harvesting(1)

Invention(2)

Strategy(1)

Tactics(1)

}

Haggling had leveled up twice and Inspect once. Inspecting everything was paying off. Jim whistled a tune as he walked to the smithy.

*

“Jaxon, how’s the morning treating you?” Jim asked in greeting.

“Good so far. I have three orders for grills to work on today,” the smith answered with a grin.

“That’s good. I wanted to talk to you about grills and something else,” Jaxon said.

“Let me guess, you want more grills so you can sell them.”

“Got it in one,” Jim agreed.

“How many do you want? It’ll take me and one of the lads two hours for each grill.”

“Depends on how much you’re going to charge me.”

“Twenty silver like I said I would charge Nora,” Jaxon answered after thinking about it. He then grinned even more. “If it wasn’t for you, I wouldn’t be able to make them. Besides, I’ll still make two gold off you for that wagon.”

“I’ll take ten,” Jim said after a moment. It was two gold and didn’t leave Jim a lot of coin, but he figured he could charge 50 silver or about that for the grills.

“It’ll take a couple of days,” Jaxon warned.

“That’s fine. I was planning on staying here two or three days more anyway.”

“Good. What else did you want?”

“Have you ever heard of caltrops?”

“Little metal spike things thrown on the ground used for defense?”

“That’s them. Can you make them?”

“Of course. Caltrops are really nothing but two metal spikes or even nails welded together,” Jaxon answered. “Even the lads can make them.”

“How much would you charge for caltrops?”

“The one of the lads could make between 75-100 a day. I normally charge ten coppers for 100 nails. So, say 25 coppers for 100 caltrops.”

“If you can get me 200 in three days that would be great. I plan on using them for my defense, but I’m not above selling some too,” Jim replied.

“Consider it done.”

“Alright, I need to go sell some stuff,” Jim replied and shook the smith’s hand.

*

By the time Jim got to the barracks, he had sold 10 bolts of fabric for 50 silvers. He was undercutting Billings by half, but Jim didn’t care. It was all profit for him thanks to the Rock Hope guards giving him the fabric. Jim had also sold another 10 hooks. All in all, a decent morning Jim thought as he met Ella outside the guards’ barracks.

“Hi Jim!”

“Hi Ella. How are things?”

“Nice and peaceful.”

“Just the way you like it?”

“You got that right,” Ella answered as she led Jim into the barracks. She led Jim to the far wall. “Here is the map.”

“Thanks,” Jim replied as he gazed at the map. More of the Kingdom of Praha filled in on his map.

“Is there anything in particular you’re looking for?”

“No. I’m just trying to fill in my knowledge of the kingdom and planning my next stop.”

“Swift River?” Ella asked.

“I think so and then on to Raven’s Rest.”

“That’s a big town.”

“Good. I’m hoping to find an enchanter and horses for the wagon Wyatt, Nora, and Jaxon are going to build for me.”

“You want to enchant a wagon?”

“Yep. I want to be able to store more merchandise in it,” Jim answered. He headed for the exit. “Thanks for letting me see the map. I need to get back to selling.”

Chapter 19

Jim had looked over his inventory before setting up for the day and returned to Jaxon. He had forgotten he had the ingots and ore to sell. Jim entered the smithy and waited until the smith finished the grill he was working on before catching his attention. “Hi Jaxon.”

“Jim, what are you doing back here?”

“I have something to sell you.”

“Oh?” the dwarf asked as he wiped his face with a rag.

“I have 25 steel ingots, 50 iron ingots, and 50 pounds of iron ore I thought you might want.”

“Aye, I could use the metal. I’m not due for another shipment from Rock Hope for another month. These grills are making me burn through my supply a bit faster than I thought I would,” Jaxon replied after giving it some thought. “How much do you want for all of it?”

“Ten gold,” Jim answered. “But I owe you two gold for the wagon, so we can take that from the price. I also owe you a gold for the 10 grills. So, seven gold.”

“Don’t forget the caltrops.”

“Ok. So, 6 gold, 99 silvers, and 50 coppers,” Jim replied with a smile. It wasn’t as much profit from Jim’s original investment as he wanted, but the real payoff would be the grills. He willed his Haggling and Charisma to work as hard as they could.

“Fine. You drive a hard bargain, but we have a deal,” Jaxon said and shook Jim’s hand. He handed Jim the coin a moment later. “Put it in the back room there, will ya?”

“Sure,” Jim replied. He walked into the indicated room and deposited the ore and ingots in front of the piles of other ingots and ore in the room. Jim walked out of the room and left the smithy after thanking the smith for buying the metal.

*

By midafternoon, Jim had sold the five sets of armor he had gotten from Karim to the guards for 50 silvers. He also sold them the sword and axe for 10 silvers. Billings had left his shop and came to Jim’s stand late in the afternoon. The merchant had not liked that people complained about his fabric prices when Jim was charging half as much. Jim packed up his wares and entered the other man’s shop.

After Haggling for a good while, Billings bought the farm equipment for 40 silvers, the rest of Jim’s fabric for 1 gold and 20 silvers, the rest of Jim’s hooks for 75 silvers, the four bags of trail rations for 20 coppers, the three mana potions for 8 silvers, and a pen plus notebook for 30 silvers. Jim made 2 gold, 64 silvers, and 20 coppers off Charles Billings.

It seemed the other merchant wanted Jim out of the village as quickly as possible. Jim was proud he got so much for the pen and notebook from his fellow merchant. He still had the weapons, most of his pens and notebooks left. More importantly he had made 9 gold, 13 silvers, and 80 coppers on the day!

Jim walked out of the shop and did some quick math. He figured he had 16 gold, 75 silvers, and 80 coppers give or take a few coins. Jaxon still had to build the ten grills over the next couple of days which added to his wares. Jim checked his inventory. He had eight pens. Seven he would sell. He had 11 notebooks but would keep two. That left nine to sell. Make it seven to match the number of pens Jim decided after giving it a second thought. Plus, he had the two poison daggers and 10 bags of various seeds, half of which were wheat. That was not a lot of inventory.

Jim decided not to setup shop again as the rest of the villagers had shown no interest in his pens, notebooks, or the daggers. Jim pulled his chair out of storage and sat under the tree he had setup at before. With nothing else to do and a couple hours to kills before suppertime, Jim pulled up his character sheet and stats. Jim noticed his sheet displayed his amount of coin now too. That was neat!

{

Jim Merchant

Health: 130

Stamina: 130

Gold: 16

Silver: 75

Copper: 80

Class: Merchant(3)

Skills: Inspect(5)

Haggling(8)

Harvesting(1)

Invention(2)

Strategy(1)

Tactics(1)

}

{Strength-6, Endurance-6, Dexterity-7, Charisma-12, Intelligence-10, Wisdom-7, Luck-10}

He then looked over his notices. Haggling had leveled again, which was nice. As he sat there, two large boats pulled up to the docks.

Several of the village men that were not otherwise busy met the captains and a man Inspect identified as a merchant. Billings joined them and after a brief discussion, had the villagers go to a warehouse that Jim had not paid attention to and start removing frozen fish to load on the boats. “Huh. So, that is where they store their catch and how they sell it.”

Jim got up, stowed his chair, and walked over to the warehouse. Not wanting to interfere, he stepped close enough to the doors to peek in, but not be in the way. The day was warm, but Jim felt a cold breeze coming out of the building. One of the men took a break after a few minutes to warm his hands. Jim asked him how the warehouse stayed cold.

“Billings had an enchanter enchant it to stay cold,” the villager answered.

“Interesting. Thanks,” Jim told the man as he went back to work. Jim headed to the inn with thoughts of having his wagon cooled, a fridge, and hopefully his grill and stove able to cook via enchantment instead of wood or charcoal.

*

The merchant and his two crews stayed the night in Catfish Landing. The merchant was staying at Billings’ home while the captains and their small crews stayed at the River Crawler. Jim thought the captains might know how much the merchant paid for the village’s catch, so he decided to buy them a couple rounds of mead. The couple of rounds ended up being several rounds which cost Jim 30 copper.

In a drunken stupor Jim thought the cost was worth the coin. The merchant paid Billings two gold for 1000 pounds of fish. The merchant in turn, made 10 gold off the fish at Raven’s Rest. The merchant would bring goods to Swift River and Catfish Landing as well to supplement his income and pay the boats’ crews. They also ferried passengers when asked for a price. The merchant made the trip 1-3 times a week depending on the catch and season. Jim decided it was a rather good racket. The only question Jim had now was if the hangover would be worth it in the morning. He pulled up his stats and page.

{

Jim Merchant

Health: 130

Stamina: 130

Gold: 16

Silver: 75

Copper: 50

Status ailment: Drunk

Class: Merchant(3)

Skills: Inspect(5)

Haggling(8)

Harvesting(1)

Invention(2)

Strategy(1)

Tactics(1)

}

{Strength-6, Endurance-6, Dexterity-7, Charisma-12(+1), Intelligence-10(-2), Wisdom-7(-1), Luck-10}

“Look at that. The page shows me with a status ailment of drunk and it affects my stats!” Jim drunkenly muttered to himself right before passing out.

Chapter 20

Wyatt found Jim nursing water and a bowl of porridge the next morning. “You’re a sight this morning.”

Jim glared at the chipper guard and wainwright as he sat opposite Jim. “Too much mead last night.”

“So, I heard,” Wyatt agreed. “Heard the captains got you to buy a lot more than the two rounds you promised too.”

“Yeah, it was coin well spent though.”

“How so?”

“I found out how much fish sells for in Raven’s Rest and that Billings’ warehouse has a cold enchantment,” Jim replied. “My head hurts. I also found out how much Billings is paid for a 1000 pounds of fish.”

“Truly?”

“Yes,” Jim answered. “If you can do something about my hangover, I’ll tell you too.”

“Alright. Come with me,” Wyatt said as he stood up. “We have coffee and some herbs that will do the trick at our place.”

“Coffee? You guys have coffee?”

“Nora and I do, but it is something we have to get Billings to get special for us. Most of the other villagers don’t like it.”

“Savages.”

“Indeed.”

*

True to his word, Wyatt and Nora did indeed have coffee. It was dark, strong, and bitter, but Jim thought it was something he thought could have found anywhere in Europe or the Middle East. Jim loved it.

Neither Wyatt nor Nora would tell Jim what the herbs were. They only crushed up a half leaf of two different plants and told Jim to add it to his coffee. He did so and after a few minutes his hangover was all but gone.

“You two are miracle workers,” Jim professed.

“No. But you are welcome all the same,” Wyatt replied.

“How did you learn to do this?”

“My mother taught me,” Nora answered. “She was a bandrui.”

“What is that?”

“A female druid,” Nora answered.

“Oh,” Jim replied. He racked his brain for what he could remember about earth’s druids. “Isn’t that a priestess or something similar?”

“Priests or priestesses, healers, judges, advisors, lore keepers, enchanters, and teachers,” Wyatt agreed. “They can fill any of those roles or all of them if they have the training, skills, and talent.”

“They can also be caretakers of animals and the forests,” Nora added. “Some can talk with animals and even plants.”

“Talk to animals and plants?”

“Yes. Mother could. I saw her make plants grow faster, calm upset or angry animals, and ask for their aid once defending our village.”

“Aye. Watching bears, wolves, and such defend a village is not something to be missed,” Wyatt agreed.

“Wow! And you didn’t want to follow in your mother’s path?”

“No. I decided I liked working with wood more, plus I was rebellious as a young woman.”

“Ah. That is a common enough story.”

“True. Mother wasn’t hurt by my choice, and I picked up some things anyway,” Nora said. “I often wondered if she could see the future.”

“Is that something a druid can do?”

“Some legends say so,” Wyatt answered. “We both know several druids and bandrui. Neither of us have ever met one that claims they can see the future. Personally, I think it’s just a tall tale.”

“Are there any of them in this part of Praha?”

“Maybe. Some travel all over the kingdom acting as adjudicators or tending to the those in need.”

“Interesting. Thanks for the information,” Jim replied. “And since you kept your word. I’ll keep up my end of our deal. The captains said Billings was paid two gold per 1000 pounds of fish.”

“That greedy worm!” Nora exclaimed.

“He pays the fishermen half a copper per pound,” Wyatt explained before Jim could ask.

“That is bad, but they also said their boss makes ten gold in Raven’s Rest for that same 1000 pounds of fish.”

“You must be joking.”

“Afraid not,” Jim replied. Nora and Wyatt exchanged a look.

“Might be time to pass a word to a few of the fishermen so they can renegotiate with Billings or try and approach the fish merchant directly,” Nora said.

“That’s true,” Wyatt agreed once more with his wife. He turned his attention to Jim. “You’re still here for a couple more days, right?”

“Yeah,” Jim answered as he finished his coffee. “Thank you for the cure and coffee. That was great.”

“You’re welcome,” Nora replied.

“Come on Jim,” Wyatt told the merchant. “I’ll give you a tour of the village after I show you what kind of wood we are going to use for your wagon.”

“Alright,” Jim said as he stood up. “Lead the way.”

*

“We are going to use hickory for the frame and wheels. The rest will be pine,” Wyatt explained as he showed Jim the small pile of logs that the woodcutters had brought him so far. “Hickory is the hardest and strongest wood in these parts, so that is why we use it for the frame and wheels.

“Why use the pine for the walls and such instead of the hickory?”

“Pine grows faster and can be cut easier is the main reason. It’s also a good strong wood as well.”

“Ah. Comes down to cost and I don’t just mean what the woodcutters make either.”

“Exactly,” Wyatt agreed. “What are you going to do the rest of the day?”

“I don’t know. Walk around the village I guess,” Jim answered as he looked toward the river. He used Inspect on some plants growing in a clump at the edge of the river.

{Rice Value varies. Can be used as food}

“That isn’t much of a plan.”

“Yeah, I know,” Jim said distractedly.

“What is it?”

“Those plants in the river.”

“What about them?”

“Does anyone eat them?”

“No. Some of the villagers will use them as feed for their chickens, bison, and hogs though.”

“It’s rice. It’s a healthy food where I’m from.”

“What are you two going on about?” Nora asked as she joined them.

“Jim says those water weeds are called rice and that people eat it where he is from,” Wyatt answered.

“It can also be used to make a type of wine,” Jim added. This made Nora and Wyatt perk up.

“Really?”

“Yes. It can be sweet or fruity flavored depending on how it was made,” Jim answered. “I read about making it once. From what I remember, it takes four cups of cooked rice, a little yeast, and several days for fermentation to take place. It might be a little cloudy to start with but should turn clear on its own.”

“I would like to try this rice wine and rice,” Wyatt said.

“Me too,” Nora agreed.

“That makes three of us,” Jim said. He turned from the rice and looked at the two elves. “If Wyatt doesn’t mind watching my back since I don’t know what lurks in the river or around it, I don’t mind pulling up some plants so we can try it.”

“Works for me,” Wyatt replied.

“I’m more than curious,” Nora said. “I’m not busy this morning either. I’ll help you, Jim.”

“Thanks.

“Just going to put the plants into your ring?”

“Yep,” Jim replied as the trio walked towards the river.

*

“That was a lot of hard work,” Nora complained two hours later as they sat on the ground outside her shop.

“Yes, it was,” Jim agreed. Wyatt had ended up helping after Nora and Jim caught him staring at her backside more than watching their surroundings. Nora had promised him a good night if he helped pull up the plants.

“It would have been easier with a sickle or knife,” Wyatt said.

“True,” Nora and Jim said at the same time.

“Alright Jim. What do we do now?”

“The plants need to dry. Should take a couple of days.”

“Planning on staying here longer?”

“I was thinking of buying some fish and taking it to Rock Hope. While there, I plan on buying as much bison meat as I can along with as many ingots as possible,” Jim answered. “Jaxon would probably buy some of the metal and I was hoping that folks here or at Swift River would like the meat as something different than fish. Maybe some of Farmer Fred’s corn too.”

“Not a bad plan,” Wyatt agreed. “But what about the rice?”

“Oh. Well, after it dries it needs to be threshed and then winnowed.”

“What are those?” Wyatt asked.

“Cracking the outer shell and then removing the husks and trash from the actual rice grain. Mills can do it easily enough, but I didn’t see a mill at Rock Hope or here.”

“Nearest one is outside Raven’s Rest,” Wyatt said.

“So, how do we thresh and winnow the rice?” Nora asked.

“Trampling works for threshing,” Jim answered. “Winnowing can be done by filling a pan of threshed rice, holding it out, and pulling it down. The trash should either move to the edge of the pan or fly out.

“How do you know all this?” Nora asked.

“I’ve seen it done,” Jim hedged. Explaining videos was not something he thought he should do.

“Ok.”

“We can get yeast from Billings,” Nora said. “We need to know how to cook the rice before we can do Jim’s fermentation technique though.

“Let’s get the rice dried, threshed, and winnowed first. When I get back from Rock Hope, I’ll cook some for you. Then we can worry about turning it into wine.”

“Fine,” Wyatt agreed.

“Alright,” Jim said as he put his boots on. He stood up. “I’m off to talk to some of the fishermen so I can buy fish.”

“Jim?”

“Yes Nora?”

“Buy some clothes from Billings and then pay Milton for use of a tub,” the carpenter advised. Wyatt laughed as did Jim.

“As the lady commands,” Jim answered with a bow before walking off.

Chapter 21

The bath and new clothes cost Jim 25 coppers. It was worth it though Jim thought as he walked down the stairs and into the Crawler’s common room. He spotted one of the fishermen’s leaders sitting alone at a table. Jim walked over to the man.

“You’re Aaron, right?” Jim asked. The man looked up at Jim.

“Aye. And you’re the traveling merchant named Merchant.”

“Please call me Jim,” Jim replied. “May I join you for a few minutes?”

“Sure,” Aaron answered. “I have a question I’ve been wanting to ask.”

“Go ahead.”

“How did you find those hooks you were selling?” Aaron asked. “I’ve traveled from Rock Hope to Diamond Shoals at the coast and never saw anything like them before.”

“Would you believe I invented them and had a smith make them for me?”

“Maybe. But you came from Rock Hope. There is nothing north of there.”

“I’m a newcomer to Praha and ended up in Rock Hope. Bryon was the smith that made the hooks,” Jim explained. He hoped that would suffice as he did not want to go into discussion about Anu and being kidnapped.

“Fair enough. I was simply curious.”

“It’s alright. Did you get any of the hooks?”

“Aye. I had my son buy two.”

“The tall lad with curly brown hair?” Jim asked. “He was very respectful.”

“Aye. That’s my Ian,” Aaron replied with a smile. “His mother will be pleased that he was respectful.”

“I take it that you are pleased as well.”

“That I am,” Aaron agreed. “I saw you, Nora, and Wyatt out at the river’s edge pulling up weeds.”

“Those plants aren’t weeds. They are rice and something I wanted to talk to you and maybe the headman about. But before that, I wanted to know if I could buy some fish from you without having to go through Billings,” Jim explained. At the mention of the headman, Aaron smiled.

“Aye, anyone can sell you fish if they want to. Why?”

“I’ve come to understand that Billings just sells to the Raven’s Rest merchant and makes a good profit off doing so. Nora and Wyatt might have more to talk with you about that,” Jim answered. Aaron nodded in understanding and glanced at Milton. “Anyway, I want 100 pounds or more of fresh fish to take to Rock Hope.”

“It’s a three-day walk. The fish won’t stay fresh that long.”

“Yeah, I have made that trip once,” Jim replied with a grin. He lifted his hand with the ring on it. “The fish will keep in my storage ring.”

“That is a nice trinket.”

“It is,” Jim agreed. “What kind of fish do you guys catch here anyway? I’m assuming catfish are one kind.”

“Aye. Catfish are one. Brim, bass, and trout are the others.”

Jim drummed his fingers on the table for a moment. “I’ll pay a copper per pound.”

“That’s twice what Billings pays.”

“I know.”

“I’m back on the water tomorrow. I’ll let the other lads fishing in the morning know as well.”

“Thanks.”

“No. Thank you,” Aaron replied. “Now what about those plants did you want to discuss?”

“Let’s go to Nora’s shop and I’ll show you. It’ll be easier to explain that way,” Jim answered as he stood.

“Alright,” Aaron agreed as he finished his mead. “I’m right behind you.”

*

Jim checked his funds as he and Aaron walked around Nora’s shop to where the rice plants were beginning to dry in the sun.

{16 Gold, 75 Silver, 25 Coppers}

Not too shabby, but Jim not only wanted a lot more, but he also needed a lot more if he didn’t want to lose a level if he was killed again. Jim dismissed the thought and turned to the fisherman. Jim spent a few minutes explaining how to harvest, thresh, and winnow the rice. He gestured and pantomimed what needed to be done to get the rice into a cookable state as well.

“That seems like a lot of work.”

“It is,” Jim agreed. “A grain mill would solve a lot of those issues.”

“The nearest mill is at Raven’s Rest.”

“I know,” Jim replied. He then explained what he had in mind as far as some of the fishermen becoming rice farmers and why. Nora and Wyatt had joined them and listened in on Jim’s sales pitch.

“Hi Aaron,” Nora greeted the fisherman while Wyatt nodded in his direction.

“Nora, Wyatt, it’s good to see you.”

“How did Jim convince you to come look at this so fast?” Wyatt asked and gestured to the rice.

“He can be persuasive.”

“Aye,” Nora agreed. She turned her attention to Jim. “You didn’t tell him about the wine?”

“I was saving that little tidbit for later,” Jim admitted. Aaron looked intrigued.

“What wine?”

“Jim says rice,” Nora gestured to the drying plants, “can be turned into a type of wine.”

“That’s more interesting than saying you can eat it,” Aaron replied which prompted Wyatt to laugh.

“I thought the same thing.”

“I am interested though. A crop that we can grow in these wetlands and then sell would help the village immensely.”

“Is this something you think the headman would buy into?” Jim asked. Aaron, Wyatt, and Nora grinned. “What?”

“I already have bought into your scheme,” Aaron said.

“Wait! You’re the headman? Inspect shows you to be a level 5 fisherman,” Jim said.

“I am a fisherman first and foremost. We are a small and mostly quiet village. My role as headman is secondary and my wife handles most of the small things that come up,” Aaron proudly replied. Nora and Wyatt nodded in agreement.

“Alright. I believe you.”

“Good. Now, none of the fishermen will agree to the work you want done or switch to rice farming without seeing what is in it for them. I will not try to force them either.”

“That’s fine. I can pay.”

“Even if you pay, most will refuse. Instead, I’ll get some of the older boys and girls to do it. You’ll still have to pay though.”

“I’m not sure if I’m comfortable with kids doing the work,” Jim replied.

“Jim, I’m not talking about the children. I’m talking about the ones as old as Ian. He’ll be an adult in two years. Those lads and lasses already do chores and work on their parents’ boats.”

“Or at the inn and for Billings,” Nora chimed in.

“Oh,” Jim said. “Ok. How much should I pay them?”

“I’ll get Ian and nine others to do the work. It’ll probably take most of the day to do what you need doing. I suggest paying them a copper an hour,” Aaron answered.

“Make it ten coppers each,” Jim counteroffered. “If this works like I want it to, there will be more work later.”

“Fair enough,” Aaron agreed. “Is there anything else you need from me?”

“Yeast,” Jim answered. “That is for helping turn the rice into wine. I don’t want Billings to know about this.”

“Alright. Billings charges at least 2 silvers for a small bag of yeast since he must order it. You’ll have to pay for it though.”

“I expected that,” Jim agreed as he pulled out 10 silvers and handed it to Aaron. He then handed the headman another silver. “The 10 silvers are for the yeast and the other silver is for the kids.”

“You’re paying now?” Wyatt asked.

“Yep. I’m heading back to Rock Hope the day after tomorrow so I can get more ingots, ore, and bison meat,” Jim answered. “I’m also going to try and sell a grill or two. I should be back in a few days.”

“You really need to hire guards to go with you,” Nora said.

“Hopefully, I’ll be fine. The caltrops Jaxon is making for me should help for now. I’ll hire some as soon as I can,” Jim promised.

“Jim, how will we know when the rice is dry enough to process?” Aaron asked as the thought occurred to him.

“It’ll be ready when you can roll it in your fingers and it comes apart,” Jim answered. “It shouldn’t take but two or three days.”

“That works,” Aaron said. He turned to Nora and Wyatt. “Nora, if this works as Jim says it will, could you build a mill?”

“Yes, but I will need a lot of help.”

“The village will help,” Aaron promised. He turned to leave. “Jim, be at the docks shortly before dusk for your fish tomorrow.”

“I’ll be there,” Jim agreed.

Chapter 22

Jim checked his inventory one more time as Catfish Landing became a memory. He had 16 gold and 36 silver coins 75 copper coins, 8 pens, 11 notebooks, 2 steel poison daggers, 5 bags of wheat seed, 5 bags of various seeds, 200 pounds of fish, 10 grills, a quiver of 40 arrows, 2 yew bows, 2 Kodiak Cave Bear claws, 200 caltrops, his chair, table, and his Traveler’s Pack in his ring. Jim had forgotten about the bows, arrows, and claws while he was in the village, so had never tried to sell them. Jim also had his tent, bedroll, waterskins, striker, flint, and personal food as well as a scale he bought from Billings for 25 silvers.

“I really need to find better boots,” Jim muttered to himself as he sat down in his chair under a tree beside the path. He had been walking for half the day. “I should have taken that 25 silver for the daggers too.”

One of the village guards had approached Jim as he was leaving Catfish Landing wanting to buy the poison daggers. The man had offered 25 silvers for the pair. Jim turned him down quickly after the guard refused to negotiate. Jim ate a snack and then used Inspect on the claws, seeds, bows, and arrows.

{Kodiak Cave Bear Claw *2 Level 8 Value 25 Silvers each}

{Yew Bow *2 Level 2 Value 10 Silvers each}

{Basic Arrows *40 Level 1 Value 5 Coppers each}

{Wheat Seed Bag *5 Value 5 Coppers each}

{Corn Seed Bag *2 Value 5 Coppers each}

{Butterbean Seed Bag Value 5 Coppers}

{Stringbean Seed Bag Value 5 Coppers}

{Carrot Seed Bag Value 5 Coppers}

Jim pulled out his pen and notebook. He made an inventory list with the price and quantities of wares he wanted to sell as well as their cost.

Jim laughed. He had gotten a lot of stuff without paying for it one way or the other. Jim hoped he wouldn’t come across more goods the same way. He would not add his food, table, chair, clothes, and such to the list as he did not want to sell them. Happy with his list, Jim put the notebook, pen, table, and chair away. Jim pulled a waterskin out and took a drink. Replacing the skin in his inventory, Jim started walking again.

*

“Farmer Fred!” Jim called out. It was mid-morning. The farmer turned and looked at Jim in confusion. He was chopping weeds in his garden.

“Jim? You just left here a few days ago.”

“I did,” Jim agreed. “I made it to Catfish Landing and sold most of my stock. So, I decided to come back and buy more ingots and ore as well as sell some fresh fish.”

“You have fresh fish?” Fred asked and leaned on his hoe.

“I do,” Jim answered and pulled a brim from his ring. “I have some brim, trout, bass, and a few catfish.”

“How much do you want for it?” Fred asked. “We haven’t had fish in a year.”

“Two coppers a pound,” Jim answered. “And why haven’t you had fish in a year?”

“Catfish Landing and Swift River sells everything down river. They don’t come up here.”

“Idiots.”

“Aye. The folks here would pay a premium for fresh fish once a month or so.”

“So, I could get more than 2 coppers a pound here?” Jim asked while seeing dollar signs.

“Aye. How much do you have?”

“200 pounds. So, about 30 fish.”

“Oh yes. With so few, they will go quick and at a pretty high price,” Fred replied. “You wouldn’t charge me more than the 2 coppers a pound, would you?”

“I see you have harvested your corn,” Jim said instead of answering Fred’s question.

“Aye.”

“Have you sold it all yet?”

“Nope. I still have half my crop.”

“That’s good news. Do you have any other crops ready that you want to sell?” Jim asked. Fred thought about it.

“I can sell you a bushel of cucumbers for 5 coppers. I want to keep my basket though.”

“I don’t mind paying that price, but I want the basket included. Before you object, I’ll let you pick your choice of the fish instead of me just selling you whatever.”

“Fine,” Fred said after a moment. “Me and the wife love trout.”

“Thanks.”

“Come on to the barn and we’ll get your cucumbers,” Fred said as he took the money from Jim. Fred led the way to another barn. Once he opened the doors, Jim whistled. “Aye. 125 bushels of corn still to sell.”

“How much do you sell it for?”

“Five coppers a bushel,” Fred answered as he set a basket of cucumbers in front of Jim. Jim put them in his ring.

“Fred, I think you need to start making the trip to Catfish Landing and Swift River.”

“What makes you say that?”

“You’ll make more money instead of the little Viktous and Karim pay you.”

“Why don’t you buy the corn at a better price and then make the trip? You’re the traveling merchant after all.”

“True. Alright. I’ll buy the corn,” Jim agreed. He pulled out his table and chair. Jim sat and pulled out his pen and notebook. He did the math. “125 bushels at 5 coppers are 6 silvers and 25 coppers.”

“Aye. Farmers don’t get rich.”

“Not when you just deal with a local market, no.”

“Selling to others that don’t have access to your crops means they pay more for it.”

“I see your point. That said, I can’t leave the farm to go sell my crops. That’s why I asked you to buy the corn.”

“Right. Do you want some seeds?” Jim asked. “I have 5 bags of wheat seed, 2 of corn, 1 each of carrots, butterbeans, and string beans.”

“I’ll take them all depending on price,” Fred replied.

“Five coppers each,” Jim said with a shrug. “At least that is what they are worth.”

“That is more than fair. How much will you pay for the corn?”

“Ten silvers,” Jim answered after giving it some thought. He then removed the seed bags from his inventory.

“Are you sure Jim?”

“Yeah. I’m not sure exactly how well it will sell, but it won’t go bad in storage, so I should make my money back if nothing else eventually,” Jim answered with a shrug. “Before I pay, let’s take a look at those fish.”

*

Half an hour later, Jim had sold Fred the five trout he had for 10 coppers after paying 10 silvers for the corn. Neither man had enough coppers to make up the difference in a silver, so Fred paid Jim the coppers and then Jim paid Fred the silvers. Jim updated his inventory.

Jim quickly checked his notices and stats. He found a way to change the information into a table like the one he used for his inventory.

{

Jim Merchant

Level: 3

Class: Merchant

Health: 130

Stamina: 130

Strength(6)

Endurance(6)

Dexterity(7)

Charisma(12)

Intelligence(10)

Wisdom(7)

Luck(10)

Skills: Inspect(5)

Haggling(9)

Harvesting(1)

Invention(2)

Strategy(1)

Tactics(1)

Gold:16

Silver:36

Copper:80

}

Haggling had leveled up again, but nothing else had. Jim dismissed the page. He showed Fred a grill, but the farmer passed on it even with Jim offering to give the Farmer a discount. He did think Jim would sell two or three I in the village though. Jim put the corn, cucumbers, and fish in the Traveler’s Pack. That took up 15 slots. The rest of Jim’s wares and items took up 15 slots in his ring. Jim thanked the farmer for his business and headed to the village.

*

“Jim, what are you doing back so soon?” Fritz asked as Jim approached the gate.

“Looking to stock up on more ingots and ore plus sell some fish and maybe a grill,” the merchant answered.

“Are the fish fresh? I know storage items keeps food fresh.”

“They are indeed. Fred got all of my trout, but I have bass, brim, and a few catfish.”

“How much are you charging?”

“For you? Two coppers a pound.”

“I’ll take 10 pounds if you’ll save them for me. I don’t care about the type of fish. They all taste good,” the guard said with a smack of his lips. He had forgot about or didn’t care about the grills and what they were.

“I can do that,” Jim agreed.

“I can’t wait for lunch now that I know you have fish. Too bad I’ll have to wait until tonight to eat them.”

Jim made a quick decision. “Fritz?”

“Yes Jim?”

“Will the smiths sell me some charcoal?”

“Probably. No telling what they’ll charge though. Why?”

“I just decided to show off my grills and let everyone know I have fish at the same time,” Jim answered with a smile. “Find me in the square before you eat lunch, and I should have a surprise for you.”

“Alright. I’ll do that.”

“I’ll see you in a little while then,” Jim replied as he entered Rock Hope.

Chapter 23

“How’s it going Bryon?” Jim asked the smith as he entered the smithy.

“Things are going well. What are you doing back so soon?”

“I came back to restock some metals.”

“You sold out already?”

“Yeah. Jaxon in Catfish Landing bought everything I had.”

“He’s not due for another shipment until next month,” the smith replied with a scratch of his head. “Why did he need what you had for?”

“Can I show you something?”

“Is it like your pens?”

“Perhaps even better.”

“I was interested when you first asked. Now I really want to see what you have,” Bryon replied as his apprentice joined them.

“It’s called a grill,” Jim said as he pulled his grill from inventory. He pulled the cover and showed them the cooking top. “Wood or preferable charcoal goes under the grate. The grate is the cooking surface.”

The dwarves poked and prodded the grill. The apprentice picked it up. “It’s light, but very stable.”

“Yep.”

“This is intriguing, but Jim, most folks just hold a pan over a fire, or put on a pot if they want to cook. Otherwise, they go to the inn for better fare,” Bryon said.

“This will sell.”

“How can you be so sure?”

“Because Jaxon had some of the villagers asking him for them before I left.”

“You want us to build these too?” the apprentice asked.

“Yeah,” Jim answered. “I wouldn’t mind having more stock.”

“Jaxon has to buy his materials from us. How much did he charge you?” Bryon asked.

“One gold for ten,” Jim answered. “This one, he charged a little more as it is for my personal use and was the first. He leveled off it by the way.”

“You want more pens too?” Bryon asked.

“I would love to have more.”

“I’ve shown Micah, Waylon, and Silas here, how to make the pens. I’ll work on making one of these grills,” Bryon said. He noticed how Silas looked at him. “Don’t look like that lad. You’ll help when I need you.”

“Thank you, Bryon.”

“Bryon, could you make these slightly bigger and square instead of round?” Jim asked.

“Aye. Why?”

“To give people choices and a bigger cooking surface if they want it,” Jim answered. “Who are Micah and Waylon?”

“The other two smiths.”

“Ah.”

“I want to see this in action before I start,” Bryon said.

“Can I get some charcoal?”

“How much do you want?”

“Twenty pounds,” Jim answered after thinking it over. He didn’t anticipate returning soon, so decided to stock up a bit.”

“Forty coppers and I’m not Haggling,” Bryon warned. “We use charcoal to heat our forges.”

“Fine,” Jim replied and handed over the coin. He checked how much he had.

{16 Gold 36 Silver 40 Copper}

Silas brought over a bag of charcoal. They weighed it to make sure it was the correct weight. Bryon didn’t want to give too much, and Jim didn’t want to be shortchanged. “Thanks Silas”

“You’re welcome.”

“Are you going to show us how this thing works?” Bryon asked as Jim returned the grill to his inventory.

“Yeah. I’m going to sketch what I have in mind for the square ones first though,” Jim answered. He pulled his table, chair, pen, and notebook from his inventory. He sat and quickly sketched a square grill with rounded edges. Bryon took the offered sketch when Jim held it out to him. Jim stood and packed his stuff while the smith looked over the sketch. “What do you think?”

“I can do this,” Bryon answered. “Will 20 silvers a piece work for price?”

“I know you’ll make more off me than Jaxon since you have the metal here, so yes.”

“How many do you want?”

“As many as you guys can make in the next few days.”

“Alright. Go talk to Nathaniel about your ore and ingots. Then, you can show us how these grills work.”

*

Jim bought 50 steel ingots and 100 iron ingots for 10 gold. That was 12 silvers for each steel ingot and 4 silvers for each iron ingot. Nathaniel promised to have Jim’s order ready in three days. Jim setup his table, chair, and grill in the village square outside Karim’s shop after buying two loaves of bread from the inn for 5 coppers. He sat and updated his inventory and prices. He decided to charge 25 silvers for each steel ingot and 10 silvers for each iron ingot. Jim was going with the classic American pricing method of at least doubling costs for retail prices.

{6 Gold 36 Silver 35 Copper}

Happy with the changes, he put the notebook away as Karim exited his shop to see what Jim was doing.

“Jim what are you doing? And what is that contraption?”

“Hi Karim. This is a grill. I plan on frying some fish on it to show how easy it is to use them,” Jim explained.

“You have fish?” Karim asked.

“Fresh fish at that,” Jim answered. Violet came out and went back in when she heard what Jim said. A moment later she emerged again with two fillet knives and basket. He saw what she was holding. “Thanks Violet.”

“I want them back and cleaned.”

“Sure,” Jim replied as she sat the basket and knives on his table. Jim pulled out a five-pound bass.

“You’re not planning on using your table to clean the fish, are you?” she asked.

“Yeah, that wouldn’t be good,” Jim agreed. She went back into their shop and returned a couple minutes later with a canvas. She handed it to Jim.

“Use that.”

“Thanks,” Jim replied.

“How much fish do you have?” Karim asked as he watched Jim clean the fish.

“Not counting this one and the 10 pounds that Fritz wants, 175 pounds worth.”

“You do know fish is a rare treat for us?” Violet asked.

“That’s what I’ve been told,” Jim answered as Bryon, Silas, and Fritz joined them.

“Looks like you’ve done that before,” Timotheus said as he walked up.

“Hey Timotheus,” Jim greeted the friendly guard. “I’ve done it a few times.”

“I didn’t expect to see you back so soon, if ever.”

“Eh, business in Catfish Landing was good, so I returned to stock up on more metal. Plus, I decided to see if fish would sell here.”

“It’s a rare food out this way,” Fritz said. “You still have my 10 pounds, right?”

“Yep,” Jim answered as he cleaned the knife and pushed the basket holding the entrails and scales away with his foot. Jim then washed his hands using a lye soap he had got from Milton. He used the other knife to cut the fish into small pieces. “Violet, do you have a bread knife I can borrow?”

“Maybe.”

“I bought two loaves of bread from the inn and want to cut it into small enough pieces to make sandwiches.”

“Ok. I’ll be right back,” she replied. Violet returned a couple of minutes later and took the bread from Jim. She cut it up as he wanted while Jim added charcoal to the grill. Jim lit the charcoal and wanted for the flames to die down.

“I love the charcoal smell,” Jim commented. The others looked at him funny. “Trust me. You’ll love the way it adds flavor to anything cooked on the grill.”

*

An hour later Jim had given out all of his samples and sold all of his fish for three coppers a pound. He also sold three grills. One to Viktous, one to the headman, and one to the innkeeper, Ingrid. Jim had sold them for the 50 silvers each that he wanted. As Jim updated his inventory, he realized that Viktous and Karim had lower Haggling skills than he did.

{7 Gold 91 Silver 0 Copper}

Must be all the deals I’ve been making Jim mused as he looked over his coin and inventory. Jim had already rented a room for two nights at the inn and paid for baths. That had cost 55 coppers. Still, it had been a profitable and productive day. On the morrow, he would have to talk to the butcher about bison meat. Jim packed up and headed to the inn.

After a bath, Jim checked his notices. Haggling had leveled again. Jim had an offer to advance to a new skill.

{Bartering replaces Haggling. Bartering allows for up to 50% better prices and is a passive skill. Would you like to upgrade to this skill? Y/N?}

“Oh my!” Jim exclaimed to himself. “If I’ve been getting twice what things are worth with Haggling which was supposed to be 25% better prices, that means I’ll really start rolling in the dough with Bartering.”

Jim took the upgrade.

{Congratulations! You have reached level 4.}

{

Jim Merchant

Level: 4

Class: Merchant

Health: 140

Stamina: 140

Strength(6)

Endurance(6)

Dexterity(7)

Charisma(12)

Intelligence(10)

Wisdom(7)

Luck(10)

Skills: Inspect(5)

Bartering(1)

Harvesting(1)

Invention(2)

Strategy(1)

Tactics(1)

Gold:7

Silver:91

Copper:0

}

“Yes!”

Chapter 24

Jim was on his way back to Catfish Landing, but it was taking more time than he had anticipated. He had avoided some dangerous looking animals including another Kodiak Cave Bear by sticking to the path and being cautious. He was only about halfway to the village and really wished his wagon were ready and that he had some guards. But it wasn’t ready, and he didn’t have any guards.

His camp was well off the trail. Jim had found a small group of boulders and was using them to guard three sides of approach. The fourth side had a double layer of caltrops spread close together. Jim wished he had some bear traps too.

Jim looked at his inventory in the fading light. He had some good wares he thought, and he liked the way he had organized the table. Jim did not count his personal gear, food, and the caltrops. He had decided that they would just be for his defense while in Rock Hope. Jim had spent more time and gold than he had wanted to there, but it takes money to make money. He looked at his dwindling money reserve and sighed.

{Gold 1 Silver 47 Copper 50}

It wasn’t great, but it would have to do for now. Besides, Jim felt he got one over on Viktous when he had purchased the potatoes, carrots, clothing, and inkpots at cost from the other merchant by trading him a pen. Bartering had already proven its worth in Jim’s mind with that single deal. It had also gotten him a decent deal on potions from Karim.

Other than charging 5 coppers a pound for the bison meat, he was not sure what to charge for the other food or how to sell it. He supposed he could always charge per bushel, but he only had the one bushel of cucumbers, and he was thinking of keeping those for his personal use. He had kept a bushel of potatoes and carrots for his personal use as well as 50 pounds of bison. After giving it some thought, Jim decided on 10 coppers per bushel for the carrots and potatoes, with 20 coppers per bushel for the corn.

Jim put away his notebook and pen. He climbed into his bedroll as it got dark. Jim really wished for some salt and tomatoes. If he did, he could make a ketchup of sorts and have French fries. When he asked around Rock Hope why there was no salt, he was informed that salt was worth its weight in gold and only bought when the village killed animals to put the meat away for winter. Viktous and Karim both confirmed that they sold salt for a gold per pound. Jim thought that meant the salt market was tightly controlled and regulated. And way too rich for his blood right now. Jim closed his eyes and went to sleep thinking of salted fries and ketchup to go with his bison burgers.

*

“What the?” Jim was awakened by a small boot to his nose. He didn’t ask more as he saw several tiny spears pointed at him. Looking beyond the blades he saw several small people.

“We should kill the big,” one of the little people said.

“No. We take to elders,” another said.

“Don’t matter. Take its stuff,” a third added. The one closest to Jim’s face and the one he presumed kicked him seemed to think things over.

“We take big to elder,” he decided. Turning to Jim, he commanded, “Up! Out of cloth cave!”

On the one hand, Jim thought he could just knock the small people from him and run away. They weren’t taller than his knee. On the other, he couldn’t believe they had snuck up on him and kicked his nose. Jim decided to follow the command for now. He had to get up to get away anyhow. Most of the little people exited the tent. The commanding one stayed beside Jim pointing a spear at him.

Jim Inspected the little guy as he exited the bedroll.

{Gnome Level 5}

He noticed the other dozen or so had the small level and race. No names were shown to him though. “Now what?”

“You come with us or die,” the commanding one said as he exited the tent. Jim touched the tent as he stood up and it went into his inventory. He had put his Traveler’s Pack with the cheaper goods in it the day before as he got tired of carrying it on his back. All the gnomes jumped and started brandishing their spears in his direction.

“Magic!”

“Kill it!”

“Can we eat it and take magic?”

“What the?” Jim asked. “No! You can’t eat me!”

“Quiet! All of you!” the commanding one shouted. “No talk big!”

“My name is Jim.”

“Don’t care,” another gnome retorted. Jim saw that all his caltrops were gone. He noticed one of the gnomes was shoving it into a tiny storage bag.

“Hey! Those caltrops are mine,” Jim said. A tiny spear poked him in the butt. “Ouch!”

“You no talk or we stab!”

“Our metal now. We make more spears,” the gnome that was putting the caltrop in its bag said.

He knew if he was killed, he would end up back in Rock Hope or hopefully Catfish Landing since he was halfway between them, so he wasn’t too worried about dying. On the other hand, this might be a chance to sell some food and metal if the gnomes had anything worthwhile. So, Jim agreed to go with the gnomes. “Fine. Lead the way.”

Jim was poked again by the commanding one. He then ordered a different gnome, “Caelan, lead the way.”

*

The gnomes marched Jim west for a few hours without rest. At noon they came upon the gnomes’ village. The village was nestled in a small valley. A creek ran on the left of the village and on the right was two mines. Several gnomes pushed carts in and out of one mine. The other had no activity. What looked like poor farmland was north of the village.

Jim was led into the village where all the gnomes present stopped what they were doing and stared at the human in their midst. Jim used Inspect on everything in sight. He was hoping to level the skill again. The commanding gnome, named Graeme, Jim had learned on the march, ordered him to stop when they entered a large village square. One of the others ran into a hut in front of them. A moment later a slightly larger gnome exited with the runner. A second runner had gone into another hut and emerged with two other gnomes.

{Gnome Shaman Level 10}

{Gnome Elder Level 12}

{Gnome Elder Level 11}

Jim gasped. These were the oldest looking and highest-level creatures Jim had seen so far. The three glared at Jim and talked amongst themselves for a few minutes. Jim continued to Inspect the village. Just as Jim’s map added the Shaman’s hut as a temple, the highest ranked elder spoke.

“Kill it!” the elder ordered.

“Wait!” Jim shouted as the Shaman shot Jim with lightning. He fell to his knees as his body convulsed. Several spears punched into Jim, and he fell onto his back as blood seeped out of the wounds. Caelan jumped onto Jim’s chest and slit his throat with a tiny dagger.

{You have been killed. You can spend 1 gold or 1 level to resurrect. Would you like to resurrect? Y/N?}

Jim spent the gold to resurrect.

*

The next day as the sun rose, Jim was resurrected outside of the gnome temple in the square.

“Aaaah!” several gnomes shouted in alarm.

The elders and shaman emerged from their respective huts.

“Kill it!” all the shouted before Jim could move. He was disoriented.

“Wait,” Jim said. But it was too late. Graeme jumped on Jim’s face and stabbed him in his right eye. The little spear punctured Jim’s brain.

{You have been killed. You can spend 1 gold or 1 level to resurrect. Would you like to resurrect? Y/N?}

Jim spent the level this time.

*

The same thing happened the following day.

{

Jim Merchant

Level: 2

Class: Merchant

Health: 140

Stamina: 140

Strength(6)

Endurance(6)

Dexterity(7)

Charisma(12)

Intelligence(10)

Wisdom(7)

Luck(10)

Skills: Inspect(5)

Bartering(1)

Harvesting(1)

Invention(2)

Strategy(1)

Tactics(1)

Gold:0

Silver:47

Copper:50

}

Chapter 25

Jim woke just before the sun rose. It was light enough for him to see, and he groaned as he realized he was still in the gnome village. Jim remembered having his throat cut and being stabbed by a spear through the eye. He also remembered losing his gold and two levels. Before he could get up, the sun rose above the trees, and the gnomes exited their huts.

“Kill it!” screamed one of the elders. The shaman started to channel his lightning again. Jim reached out and grabbed the elder by his leg and pulled the gnome up with him as Jim surged to his feet.

“Now wait just a minute!” Jim yelled as he held the elder upside down in front of him. Jim hated to use the old guy as a shield, but he didn’t want to be killed again. The shaman dropped his hands while the other elder waved the rest of the tribe back. The standoff lasted several minutes.

“Put Callum down!” screeched the other elder.

“I will not. You’ve killed me three times already!”

“He is turning red and will die,” pointed out the shaman. Jim looked down at the gnome he was holding.

“Oops,” Jim sheepishly replied and turned the elder upright. He pulled the gnome to his chest and patted him on the head. “Sorry about that.”

“Stinky Devil put down Elder Callum,” the shaman said.

“Stinky Devil?”

“Yes. You keep coming back to life but are no god. So, devil you are,” the shaman answered. “Plus, smell of piss and shit.”

Jim looked down at himself and saw he was still wearing the same clothes. The pants were much darker looking than they had been, and Jim noticed they weighed more as well. “That’s just lovely.”

“Give us Callum and we no kill again,” the other elder offered.

“What’s your name?”

“Angus”, the elder answered.

“And the shaman’s name?”

“I am Keir, Stinky Devil,” the shaman answered.

“My name is Jim Merchant, not Stinky Devil.”

“Jim Stinky Devil,” Keir replied, and the rest of the gnomes repeated it.

“Wait. You trader?” Callum asked.

“Yes. I’m a merchant and that is my last name as well.”

“You trade with us?”

“Not if you’re going to kill me again.”

“We no attack. We trade instead. Gnomes need food. Jackstocks have eaten most of our crops and fruit from trees.”

“What are jackstocks?”

“Terrible beasts that do nothing but eat,” Angus answered. “They are docile though.”

“Originally, jackstocks were horse like animals. We find wounded many months ago along with dead elven trader. We nurse animals back to health and then they change after eating our food,” Keir explained as he pointed to the fields north of the village. “We give jackstocks to Jim Stinky Devil to make amends for trying to kill you.”

“Since you want to trade, I will trust you,” Jim said and set Callum down. “I need a bath before we do anything else though.”

“No tub or water big enough for you,” Callum replied. “Keir can clean with magic though.”

“Truly?”

“Yes. I will clean Jim Stinky Devil. Gnomes no lie,” the shaman answered. “Must strip and stand in field though.”

“Fine,” Jim sighed as he stepped over some huts and into the field. Jim was directed into a field further from the village. He stripped his nasty clothes off. “Will you burn those for me?”

“Pants we burn,” Angus agreed. “Shirt we keep and use.”

“That’s ok with me,” Jim replied as he stood in his birthday suit after putting his boots into his ring. Several of the younger female gnomes were pointing at Jim’s crotch, smiling, and giggling. They were chased back into their huts by older female gnomes as Keir prepared his spell or ritual. Those older women were chased indoors by male gnomes much to Jim’s amusement as he covered himself with his hands.

“Are you ready, Jim Stinky Devil?” Keir asked after a half hour.

“Yes,” Jim answered. No sooner had Jim spoken the word, than a jet of water shot up from the ground and into Jim’s private parts. “Hey!”

Jim tried to move but was surrounded by additional jets of water. The shaman gave Jim an order. “Quickly clean yourself Jim Stinky Devil. I cannot hold this spell for long.”

*

Half an hour later, a clean and clothed Jim was grilling some bacon and sliced potatoes on his grill in the field closest to the village. The bacon had come from Rock Hope’s butcher and Jim didn’t have much of it. He was sitting in his chair while the food cooked and decided to share some with the gnomes as the little people were staring at him and his grill. The elders really seemed interested in the grill.

“Callum, why don’t you and Angus clean off your shoes? I’ll set you both on the table so you can watch if you do,” Jim offered. The gnomes complied and Jim set them both on the table. Keir did the same a moment later, so Jim picked him up and set the shaman on the table as well.

“This device would allow us to cook for nearly half the village at one time,” Angus remarked after a few minutes.

“Indeed,” Callum agreed.

“This one would do better,” Jim added as he pulled one of the larger square grills from inventory. He added charcoal and Keir lit it with a spell. Jim thanked the shaman as they waited for the coals to burn down. “Would it be possible to get some of your people to peel and slice potatoes?”

“Why do you ask Jim Stinky Devil?” Angus asked.

“I thought I would share my bacon and some potatoes with the village,” Jim answered.

“You honor us, Jim Stinky Devil,” Callum replied as Jim groaned at what the gnomes all seemed to want to call him. He then ordered several of the younger women to peel and slice the potatoes Jim provided.

They kept smiling at Jim and giggling when he looked away. Jim took the potatoes when they finished and started grilling them and the bacon. While that cooked, Jim ate his breakfast. Jim cleaned his grill and put it away as the gnomes ate their food.

“We thank Jim Stinky Devil,” Keir said once they were done. The rest of the gnomes repeated the thanks as Jim groaned in annoyance.

“Angus and I proclaim Jim Stinky Devil a friend of our village,” Callum proclaimed a moment later.

Graeme, Caelan, and Ainslee, the female gnome that had killed Jim the last time, apologized for killing him. “We would like to apologize for killing Jim Stinky Devil, who has proven himself to be a friend to gnomes.”

“Ah, thank you,” Jim replied after a moment. Ainslee smiled and winked at him. Her and the other women can get over whatever idea is floating between them Jim thought. I would probably split them in half if we had sex. Plus, with their size, they remind me too much of children. He shuddered for a second. Jim turned his mind to business. “Callum, you mentioned trade before. What do you have in mind?”

“First, as you were told before, we want to give you the jackstocks to make amends for killing you.”

“That also keeps the beasts from eating all your food,” Jim replied.

“True,” Angus agreed.

“Alright. Let’s go see these terrible beasts,” Jim said. He stood up and decided to leave the table, chair, and large grill for the time being. Jim figured they would be back to talk business in a few minutes anyway.

*

Keir and Jim’s three murderers led him to a tree grove a short distance north of the village. Jim did not need to use Inspect to recognize the fruit on the trees.

“Apples?”

“Yes,” Keir answered. “We love apples.”

“So do I,” Jim replied.

“The jackstocks do as well,” Ainslee added. She pointed a short distance away. Jim couldn’t see the creature’s whole shape, but it was huge. The beast moved into the open after a couple of minutes to get to an apple. Jim used Inspect on it.

{Mammoth Jackstock Level 10}

The beast stood six feet at the withers. A second one joined the first. The other was just a little shorter and was maybe five and a half feet at the withers.

“Those are giant mules!” Jim exclaimed.

Chapter 26

“Ok, maybe not giants. But those things are huge!”

“Yes. You take them away Jim Stinky Devil?” Keir asked.

“We were going to attempt to use them for farming. Then we were going to eat them,” Graeme stated. “Our weapons cannot get through their hides though.”

Jim watched the jackstocks as they ate a few apples. Both were level 10. From what Jim remember reading of mules, they were an intelligent, patient, and generally cooperative animal. They had long memories and could be stubborn if they had a bad experience doing something. They were also supposed to be hardy, long-lived, strong, and have a lot of endurance. The pair might make perfect animals to haul his wagon.

“I’ll take them if I can get them to allow me to ride one and the other follow me.” Jim pulled a carrot and approached the smaller one.

“That one is a female,” Ainslee suppled for Jim.

“Thanks,” Jim called back. The female jackstock made a whinny type sound that ended in a hee-haw sound at Jim and shied away. He held the carrot out and the male ran towards Jim and snatched it from his hand while knocking Jim down. Jim landed on his butt. The gnomes laughed. The female turned back towards the commotion. Jim got to his feet and offered the male another carrot. “Were you going for a touchdown big guy?”

The male took the carrot and ran over Jim again as it ran off. More gnomes had joined them and laughed at Jim’s misfortune. The female came over to Jim and nudged his hand. Jim produced another carrot, and the female gently took it from him. “Smart is right.”

Jim got to his feet and offered the female another carrot. She allowed Jim to pet her while she ate the second carrot. “I’ll name you Peggy.”

{Peggy Jackstock Level 10}

Jim tried to mount Peggy only for her to buck him off. Jim ate dirt once more to the delight of the gnomes. Peggy started nudging Jim’s hand again as the gnomes laughed. The male jackstock made the hybrid whinny/hee-haw sound and Jim got the impression he was laughing at Jim as well. Jim stood and dusted himself off.

“Jim Stinky Devil, perhaps you should blood bond the jackstocks,” Keir advised. Jim approached the gnome.

“And how do I do that?”

“Unlike your storage ring, a living creature needs to ingest blood for a bond to take place. Feed it a carrot with your blood on it.”

“Oh. I didn’t know that was possible.”

“Most humans do not.”

“Ah. Alright. Let’s give this a go.” Jim pulled a knife and cut a finger. He put the knife away and pulled out a carrot. Smearing blood on the end of the carrot, he offered it to Peggy. She shied away, but the male rushed up and nearly bit Jim’s hand off taking the carrot from him. Jim ended up on his ass again. “I’m naming you Al.”

{Al Jackstock Level 10}

“The female shied away from the smell of your blood Stinky Devil,” Caelan informed Jim. “The male was too greedy and wanted the carrot to care.”

Jim got back to his feet. The male stayed standing close to Jim. With his head up, Al was at least two feet taller than Jim. “Go eat an apple Al. I have to get Peggy to eat another carrot.”

To Jim’s surprise, Al obeyed. Jim offered another carrot with less blood on it to Peggy. She took it this time. While Peggy ate the carrot, Jim drank a minor health potion. He did it to make sure the cut healed and that he didn’t get an infection.

“Alright Peggy. You’re going to take me for a ride.” Jim mounted the female jackstock after several attempts and rode her around the apple grove while the gnomes cheered. Jim rode to the gnomes and dismounted. “Keir, why didn’t you do this to them?”

“Because they have already eaten over half the food we had planned to store for winter.”

“Oh.”

“Come, let’s go back to the village and you can talk about trading with the elders.”

*

“Jim Stinky Devil has taken possession of the jackstocks and will be taking them when he leaves,” Keir announced to the village to many cheers.

“We thank you for this,” Angus told Jim.

“Thank you. Al and Peggy will prove to be useful if they don’t eat all my wares.”

“Speaking of wares. We would like to trade for food if you have any,” Callum said.

“I have 125 bushels of corn, 50 bushels of potatoes, 50 bushels of carrots, 1 bushel of cucumbers, and 250 pounds of ground bison meat,” Jim replied to more cheers. “I take it you want it all.”

“Indeed.”

“What do you offer?”

“We offer this ring,” Angus said while gesturing a younger gnome to give it to Jim. Jim Inspected it. The ring was worth far more than the food was.

{Cedar Wood Storage Ring Value 50 Gold}

“I’ll take it,” Jim stated. “Why did you want to trade it?”

“We got it from the dead elven trader. None of us can wear it as it is too big,” Callum answered. Jim switched the silver ring to his left hand and cut his right ring finger. He slipped the cedar ring on.

It was a large storage ring with 100 slots that held 20 items each. The ring contained 10 elven swords, 10 sets of elven armor, 50 steel ingots, 100 iron ingots, 20 mithril ingots, 20 steel traps, 2 sets of men’s enchanted men’s clothing, 1 pair of boots, a tent, 20 haybales, 100 bushels of corn, 100 bushels of peas, 100 bushels of butterbeans, 100 bushels of string beans, 100 bushels of potatoes, 100 bushels of cucumbers, 100 bushels of tomatoes, 100 bushels of lettuce, 100 bushes of onions, 40 bolts of fabric, 10 pouches of black pepper, 50 pounds of bacon, 50 pounds of ham, 20 mana potions, 20 health potions, and 10 gold.

“Good lord!” Jim exclaimed after checking the inventory.

“What is it?” Angus asked.

“Is the ring cursed?” Keir asked.

“No, it’s not cursed. I’m going to have to change our deal though,” Jim replied. This sparked anger from the gnomes. “Calm down. This will be better for you.”

“How so?” Callum asked.

“This ring is loaded with food,” Jim answered. He listed the food which prompted the gnomes to cheer. I’ll trade you almost all the food, but I want to keep a little for myself and to sell to other villages.”

“How much do you want to keep?”

“Just 10 bushels of each along with 25 pounds of each meat. In exchange, I’ll add my minor health and mana potions top the trade.”

“We agree to your terms,” Callum replied after speaking with Keir and Angus.

“Great. Clear some space and I’ll start stacking the food,” Jim ordered. The gnomes moved as ordered. After stacking the food, Jim updated his inventory list. Some of the prices, Jim based off the value Inspect showed him. Others, he just did on his own.

{Gold 10 Silver 47 Copper 50}

The boots, clothing, and tent would be counted as personal items. Jim Inspected the items.

{Blue comfortable elven shirt Enchanted to stay dry, stay clean, and resist wear Value 1 gold}

{White comfortable elven shirt Enchanted to stay dry, stay clean, and resist wear Value 1 gold}

{Brown comfortable elven pants *2 Enchanted to stay dry, stay clean, and resist wear Value 1 gold}

{Comfortable elven leather boots Enchanted to stay dry, stay clean, resist wear, and resize to fit Value 5 gold}

{Tent value 25 coppers}

“Sweet!” Jim muttered to himself. Despite killing him, the gnomes had proven to be very profitable to Jim. First the jackstocks and now all the loot. Jim changed into the elven clothing, including the blue shirt. He wasn’t sure what the material was, but it was much better than anything he had ever worn before. The boots are the most comfortable shoes Jim had ever worn. Jim sighed in relief as he walked around the field.

“You seem very happy Jim Stinky Devil, Angus observed.

“Oh yeah. These boots and clothes are amazing. More importantly, we both have profited well from this.”

“This is true. We have more than enough food for winter now.”

“How will you keep the meat?”

“Salt from the mine,” Angus answered.

“You have a salt mine? Jim asked. The elder nodded. “Can we trade for salt?”

Chapter 27

“Maybe,” Angus answered Jim. “We have food now.”

“I have steel and iron ingots.”

“We have iron. Steel is tempting,” Callum stated.

“I also have some stronger potions.”

“Mana and health?” Keir asked.

“Yes.”

“Also tempting Jim Stinky Devil.”

“Bolts of fabric?”

“Perhaps.”

“How about the large grill?”

“That we want,” Callum replied. “Five pounds of salt for it.”

“I will take that deal,” Jim happily agreed. “What about the legs? It’s a bit tall for you guys.”

“Don’t worry about long legs. Keir will fix,” Angus stated. The shaman walked to the grill and touched two of legs.

“Jim Stinky Devil will hold so it doesn’t fall,” Keir instructed. Jim complied. The shaman cast a spell and half the two legs he was touching melted into ingots. Keir repeated the process with the third leg. After a short break, Keir removed the rest of the metal except for little nubs that would keep the bottom of the grill barely off the ground. “Take the steel to mine. We will use to make more spears and other things we need.”

“Bring Jim Stinky Devil his five pounds of salt,” Callum instructed other gnomes. A short while later, Jim was putting the salt into his inventory. “If can, Jim Stinky Devil should return after winter, and we trade again. Seeds, herbs, food, and potions are the kind of things we will want.”

“I will return if I can,” Jim agreed. “Thank you elders and shaman.”

“We thank Jim Stinky Devil as well,” the shaman and elders stated at the same time. Jim nodded goodbye and whistled for his jackstocks after putting away his table and chair. Jim mounted Peggy and road around the village. Al followed along.

*

Jim rode up to Catfish Landing’s gate two days later before the gate opened for the day. For some reason, most animals and creatures that Jim had to hide from before avoided him, Al, and Peggy. Jim reckoned it was due to the mammoth jackstocks size and level.

Asher and Ella opened the gate only to jump back in alarm when they saw the jackstocks. The guards started to pull weapons when Jim jumped off Peggy and shouted, “Easy! The jackstocks are mine.”

“Jim?”

“Where the hell did you find those beasts and what are they?”

“Yeah, it’s me. I’m later than I wanted to be, but I’m back,” Jim replied to Ella first. “As for Peggy and Al, they are level 10 mammoth jackstocks.”

“That still doesn’t tell me what they are,” Asher complained.

“Know what a horse is?”

“Aye.”

“Know what a donkey is?”

“Aye.”

“If a male donkey is bred with a mare, they produce a mule. jackstocks,” Jim pointed at Al and Peggy, “are huge mules.”

“But where did you find them?”

“In the forest of all places.”

“I think they’re sort of cute,” Ella remarked.

“I can see that,” Jim agreed.

“You’re both nuts,” Asher countered which made Ella and Jim laugh.

“Perhaps,” Jim replied. “But I’m going to use them to pull the wagon Nora, Wyatt, and Jaxon are building me.”

“They should be able to pull any wagon with ease.”

“That’s the hope.”

“Are you going to breed them?” Ella asked.

“Don’t know. I haven’t given it any thought.”

“Oh.”

“If I ever see another one or if they do have a foal, I’ll keep you in mind.”

“Thanks,” Ella replied with a smile.

“Can I take them on in?”

“Yeah.”

“Thanks. I’ll be in town for a few days at least, so I’ll see you around,” Jim told the guards as he led Al and Peggy into the village. He turned toward Nora’s shop since Jim was anxious to see how they did with the rice.

*

Jim could hear sawing and hammering as he approached Nora’s shop two hours later. The village’s children had instantly taken to Peggy and Al. So, for two hours he walked the jackstocks around the village square while letting the children take turns riding the huge mules until Aaron exited his home and made the children go do their chores. Shaking his head, the headman left Jim after advising the merchant that he would join them at Nora’s in a while.

“Wow! You guys really made some progress,” Jim shouted when there was a break in the hammering. The wagon’s bed, the tongue, axles, and wheel were all done as well as the ribs that would support the walls and roof.

“Where the hell have you been Jim?” Wyatt asked as he jumped off the wagon. He then noticed Al and Peggy in the yard. “And where did you get jackstocks?”

“He has jackstocks?” Nora asked as she left the saw she had been using.

“I got captured by gnomes,” Jim answered Wyatt’s first question. “Al and Peggy were given to me as a gift of sorts after three days of… misunderstanding.”

“There is a story there,” Wyatt observed.

“Yep.”

“Well, tell us,” Nora suggested.

“I’d rather only do it once. Aaron is on his way,” Jim replied. “Where is Jaxon?”

“At his forge working on your brake system,” Nora answered. “I haven’t seen jackstocks since we left the Eastern Forests.”

“I was planning on leaving them here until the wagon was done if that is alright.”

“We’ll be done in another week,” Wyatt replied.

“Didn’t you say it would take longer?”

“Always under promise and over deliver,” Wyatt shrugged.

“Besides, we decided to make it a priority after we tried the rice.”

“You figured out how to cook it?”

“Of course. Just boil it in water,” Nora answered. “It’s good.”

“We saved you half,” Wyatt informed Jim. “That gives you a pound.”

“Jaxon, and the rest of us have been eating the rest,” Nora added. “Speaking of Jaxon, we need to get him.”

“Eli!” Wyatt shouted.

“Yes papa?” the boy asked as he exited the shop. His eyes widened in shock at seeing the jackstocks.

“You can see the jackstocks later. Go get Jaxon and tell him Jim has returned.”

“Ok papa!” Eli replied and took off running.

“Why are you level 2 Jim?”

“Part of the story.”

“This should be interesting,” Nora replied.

“You have no idea.”

*

“You have to be one of the luckiest people I’ve ever met,” Aaron told Jim after he finished his story.

“I agree,” Jaxon said while Wyatt and Nora nodded in agreement. Jim shrugged.

“What are your plans and how long are you staying? Aaron asked.

“Help you setup for rice farming, help Nora and Wyatt with the wagon if they need it, draw a stove for Jaxon so he can start on that, and sell my wares,” Jim answered. “As for how long I’m staying, I’ll stay until the wagon is done.”

“How much ore do you have?”

“None. But I do have a lot of steel and iron ingots.”

“We’ll discuss price later.”

“Alright. I also have a surprise I’ll show you then.”

“I’m intrigued.”

“Any other good surprises?”

“A few. I think the village guards will be interested in several pieces.”

Aaron and Wyatt exchanged a look. “We’ll see what you have whenever you setup.

“Why don’t you go ahead and show us what you have now?” Nora asked. “We’re all here and that way the things you think we’ll be interested can be taken care of before you sell to the rest of the village.”

“Fair enough,” Jim replied. “Let me show you what I have.”

Chapter 28

Jim spent two weeks in Catfish Landing while the wagon was being built. It had taken a bit longer than had been thought as Jaxon had a little trouble with the stove. It had taken the smith longer to work out the stovetop thickness unlike it had with the grills. Jaxon was happy with the finished product as was Jim.

Jim sold a lot of his merchandise during that time. He sold half of the vegetables he had for 5 silvers and 50 coppers. The villagers bought 10 pounds each of Jim’s ham, bacon, and bison meat for 1 silver and 50 coppers. They also bought 5 pouches of black pepper for 50 coppers and 5 haybales for 25 coppers.

The village guards bought five swords and five sets of armor 3 gold and 50 silvers. Jim had given them one of the bows as a sweetener. The guards also bought 10 health and 10 mana potions for 2 gold. Jaxon bought two mithril ingots for 1 gold as well as the Kodiak Cave Bear claws for 50 silvers.

In return, Jim bought 50 pounds of trout for 50 coppers. He also ended up paying 2 silvers for the processing of 200 pounds of rice. Jim had rented a room the entire time which cost him 2 silvers.

Jim checked his stats after updating his inventory. He had gained a level back as well as a level in Invention, Harvesting and Inspect. Corn Harvesting had changed to Harvesting after Jim had gained the level due to harvesting rice. Invention leveled after Jim had gotten Jaxon to add an iron band to the wagon wheels. He expected that little addition would start showing up in wagons a lot. Bargaining hadn’t gained a level despite Jim wishing it had and making several deals.

Jim was torn on where to go after Swift River. From there, he could go east to Raven’s Rest or keep going south to Diamond Shoals. Both were appealing, but for different reasons. Diamond Shoals was at the coast and Jim wanted to see the sea. The city was a trading hub, plus there should be more seafood that he could pickup to sell.

Raven’s Rest was near the mountains and closer to the Eastern Forests. Jim wanted to see the elves’ traditional home. He also knew from his friends here that there was at least one enchanter in Raven’s Rest that could do what Jim wanted done to the wagon. His thoughts were interrupted.

“Aren’t you leaving today Merchant?”

“Not planning to Milton. I’ve already paid for tonight and I hate not getting my money’s worth,” Jim answered the innkeeper. Milton really didn’t like Jim because Sena had started flirting with him. What Milton didn’t know was that things between the innkeeper’s daughter and Jim had advanced past flirting. “You and Billings will have to put up with me until tomorrow I’m afraid.”

“I’ll gladly give you your money back for the night.”

“Not happening. Michael is supposed to be bringing a couple of mercenaries for me to talk to about hiring them to be guards when he comes for the fish tomorrow.”

“Humph. Like anyone wants to rob you.”

“It’s already happened once, and I have no intention of letting it happen again.”

“At least whoever did it let you live.”

“Maybe they didn’t.”

“If they hadn’t let you live, you wouldn’t be here to bug me now.”

“Maybe I can come back after death.”

“Ha!”

“I’ll do you a favor and leave until I return tonight,” Jim told the innkeeper as he got up from the table he had been sitting at. “I’m going to go check on my wagon and jackstocks.”

“I wish they would kick your head in,” Milton muttered as Jim exited the inn. Maybe he did know what Jim had done with his daughter.

*

Al and Peggy were doing well when Jim checked on the big mules. The pair had mostly stayed in Nora’s shop’s yard and what was going to become one of the rice paddies. He left them after giving the pair a carrot each. Jim walked up to the wagon, which was now sitting in the shop’s yard.

Wyatt and Nora had done an incredible job. The wagon was 10 ft long instead of 12. It was 7 ft wide and 7 tall. Jim appreciated the extra headroom. The extra height gave 6 ft in the shower whenever Jim got it enchanted to work. The front wheels were close enough to the porch/floorboard that Jim could use the spokes as a step. The porch was about waist high. Jim opened the door and looked inside.

“It needs some rugs, curtains for the windows, and a curtain to separate your bathroom,” Nora said.

Jim jumped. “I didn’t hear you come up.”

“You were a little tied up checking out the wagon again.”

“Yeah.”

“That’s something you’re going to have to work on,” Wyatt said as he joined them. “Not paying attention can get you killed out there.”

“I know. I figured I was safe here though.”

“For the most part,” Wyatt conceded. “We’re thinking about making more of these.”

“Oh?”

“Yes,” Nora replied. “Maybe with straight walls instead of round. We’ll keep the curved roof though.”

“Where I’m from, there are both types,” Jim informed the elves as he sat on the little driver’s seat beside the door.

“I was thinking maybe put the door at the back or on one side instead of in the front.”

“Keep it in the front,” Jim advised. “That way when it is raining hard or cold, the driver can sit in the doorway and stay dry and warm while the wagon keeps moving.”

“Good point,” Wyatt admitted. “That’s why you wanted the door in the front.”

“Yep,” Jim agreed as he picked up the reins. The harnesses and reins had been ordered through Billings and cost Jim 5 silvers. “I figured you two would want to sell more wagons like this. I don’t blame you either.”

“That’s good.”

“I would like a finder’s fee though,” Jim said. “I did give you the design after all.”

“I don’t know about that,” Wyatt replied.

“More people will see the wagon with me taking it from place to place. I’ll send them to you if they are interested.”

“Jim has a good point.”

“I know,” Wyatt admitted. “Alright. How much would you want?”

“You charged me 15 gold even though we worked it out mostly in trade. Charge 20 to others and give me 1 gold for each customer I send to you.”

“We could do that,” Wyatt said hesitantly.

“Do you really think these wagons will sell for 20 gold?”

“Yes. Honestly, if we can find an enchanter that can do what I want done to work with you, then you could charge a lot more.”

“You’ve decided to go to Raven’s Rest then?”

“Yep. I want the shower and toilet to work badly. I also want the stove to work like I hope it will be able to as well as make sure the wagon is protected,” Jim answered. He gestured to his clothes. “These look like regular clothes, except for being a tad more colorful, but they are enchanted.”

“So are ours,” Wyatt admitted. “Let’s write up a contract and we can be partners.”

“I like that idea,” Nora replied.

“So do I,” Jim agreed.

“Let’s take it for a ride,” Nora suggested.

“Then we can sample the batch of sake,” Wyatt suggested with a grin.

“I only got to try the little batch I first made,” Jim complained.

“Jaxon, Nora, and I appreciated your generosity too.”

“You’re not drinking all the product this time,” Jim warned. “Didn’t you order bottles from Michael?”

“We did,” Nora answered. “Do you really think it will sell for a silver per bottle?”

“I do. It will be considered a premium beverage with an extremely limited supply.”

“And you’re getting the first batch for 50 coppers a bottle,” Wyatt complained.

“I showed you how to make it. Don’t be greedy.”

“You two are worse than children. Let’s go on that ride,” Nora interjected.

“You heard my wife.”

“Yeah, yeah. Let me get Peggy and Al,” Jim huffed as he jumped down from the wagon.

Chapter 29

The wagon’s ride was smoother than Jim had thought it would be. Al and Peggy pulled it for hours without pause or even breathing hard. Everyone was impressed with the jackstocks’ stamina and obedience when harnessed. Jaxon was most excited when the brakes worked as Jim had assured them, they would. Jim had privately been worried that the brakes wouldn’t work since Jaxon had never made something like them before. He sighed in relief as he parked the wagon in the village square midafternoon.

“Mama, can we get a wagon like this and jackstocks too?” Eli asked from Al’s back as Wyatt assisted Jim in unharnessing the mules and hobbling them.

“Maybe,” Nora hedged to the laughter of the men.

“Jim had fortune’s favor when he found Al and Peggy,” Wyatt added. “We would have to get any other jackstocks from the Eastern Forests.”

“Having one would be a big help in moving wagons if we do start making more,” Nora replied to her husband. “It’s something to think about.”

“Aye. We should have brought one or two with us when we moved out here.”

“Can’t change the past lad,” Jaxon told his friends.

“That’s true,” Michael said as he approached the wagon with his captains and two other men.

“You’re early,” Jim observed as he led the mules to the water trough that Jaxon’s apprentices had made for the mules. The smith had refused to charge Jim for it and said it was good practice for lads.”

“Yes. We made better time than I anticipated,” the merchant shrugged. The captains and other two men dropped their hands to their swords when they focused on the jackstocks.”

“Those are some huge beasts!”

“Al and Peggy are harmless,” Jim told them as he gave the mules an affectionate pat. He then gave it another thought and smiled. “Well, harmless for the most part.”

“Do you have the bottles we wanted?” Wyatt asked Michael.

“Indeed, I do,” the merchant replied and produced the requested items from his storage ring. He gave the case of bottles to Wyatt. “Thank you for your business.”

“Thank you for getting them so quickly,” Wyatt replied.

“I’m going to take Eli and these bottles home. I’ll wash the bottles and start preparing supper while they dry,” Nora informed her husband and took the case of bottles from Wyatt. The carpenter kissed her husband’s cheek and led their child away.

“May I ask what the bottles are for?” Michael asked as he Inspected the wagon.

“They are for a joint business venture,” Jim answered. “I have first right to sell.”

“Pity. Still, I may be interested in what you have come up with.”

“Even if we charged you a silver per bottle?” Jaxon asked. Michael’s captains laughed as did the other two men.

“I’m guessing you have a new alcoholic beverage,” Michael replied as he stroked his chin. “If the quality matches the work put into this wagon, then yes, I would be interested even at a silver per bottle.”

“We’ll make sure you get to sample the sake before you leave tomorrow,” Wyatt promised. “But as Jim said, he has first rights to sell it.”

“Thank you. Might I look at the inside of the wagon?”

“Sure,” Jim answered while brushing down Al. “Use the wheel spoke as a step.”

“Thank you. This is Sawyer and Amir. They are the mercenaries we discussed before,” Michael replied as he climbed up and looked over the inside of the wagon.

“I’m going to go wash up and head over to the Crawler for supper. I’ll join you and Nora later,” the smith informed Wyatt.

“Alright. I’m going to stay with Jim for a while,” Wyatt whispered to Jaxon. “I want to make sure these mercenaries are acceptable for guard work, and I don’t think Jim has a clue.”

“Aye. Look out for our golden goose,” Jaxon chuckled before walking home.

Michael emerged from the wagon and climbed down. “Wyatt, did you and Nora build this?”

“Aye. We did most of the work. Jaxon did the metalwork. Why? Do you want one?”

“Perhaps. What is with the pipe and metal thing it is attached to? Also, what is with the little outhouse on the right?”

“The metal thing is a stove, and the stovepipe is used to keep smoke from inside. A stove is used to cook on,” Wyatt explained. “It currently uses wood, but Jim wants to have it enchanted.”

“Yep,” Jim agreed. “And the outhouse as you called it is a bathroom. The toilet is self-explanatory and the metal fixture on the other side is a shower. It is used to wash off with. Both will need to be enchanted to work correctly. So, will the sink beside the stove.”

“Sink?”

“The concaved bowl built into the cabinet top,” Wyatt supplied. “It is used to wash your hands and dishes.”

“Ah. That all makes sense if you want to travel in relative comfort.”

“Yeah. I plan on making the wagon my home as I travel selling my wares,” Jim said. “Once I’m able to settle down and open a permanent shop, I’ll either sell the wagon or keep it for any trips I make.”

“Enchanting will be expensive.”

“I know. But it must be done.”

“Must it have round walls? That is the only thing I do not like.”

“No. We have a design for regular walls. It’ll keep the curved roof though,” Wyatt answered.

“How much for one like that and can I have the inside rearranged? I think I would like the door at the back with actual steps.”

Jim told the merchant why the door was in the front. Michael nodded in agreement that it made sense. Jim sketched out a quick design with a door at both ends with two small beds along the sides in the middle with a collapsible table attached to one bed. The kitchen was at the back with the bathroom at the front. Cabinets and other storage were on opposite sides of the kitchen and bathroom.

“Yes. This I would like for my men when we travel overland. Can it have four of those small beds? One above the other?”

“Bunkbeds? Yes, it could,” Jim answered. Jim made another sketch with the beds at the back with a door between them with everything else in the middle and front like Jim’s wagon. “You could also do this.”

“I see,” Michael replied. “I like the second design more. As for myself, I would like it like Jim’s but with normal walls.”

Wyatt looked over the sketches. “We can do that.”

“Excellent. How long would you need and how much would both cost me?”

Jim nodded at Wyatt. “At least two weeks per wagon and 20 gold each.”

Five sets of eyes widened in shock. “That is expensive.”

“Yes. But the quality is excellent,” Wyatt replied.

“Very well. If you can provide me better bedding than Jim’s bedroll, we have a deal,” Michael said after thinking about it for a moment. “I may also order more in the future. My family has an enchanter that should be able to do the work at Raven’s Rest.”

“Oh?” Jim asked.

“Indeed,” Michael smiled. “I will be willing to let him discuss things with you when you reach the town.”

“I know your boats only take a day or thereabouts to reach Swift River. How long are you going to be there?”

“Two days. We are expecting a shipment of goods from Diamond Shoals.”

“I should be able to make it to Swift River before you leave,” Jim said after thinking it over. “Would you mind if I join you on your return trip to Raven’s Rest?”

“It would be a pleasure to have you join us,” Michael replied. “I might even be able to get you to give me a bottle of this sake you were planning on selling.”

“You’re welcome to try,” Jim said with a grin.

“Very well. I shall leave you to discuss things with Amir and Sawyer,” Michael replied. “I shall writeup a contract and pay you half up front on the morrow Wyatt once we both sign it.”

“That works for me,” Wyatt agreed. Michael nodded and led his captains to the River Crawler.

“Well gentlemen, shall we take a seat in the wagon and discuss expectations?” Jim asked.

“Why not,” Amir agreed. Jim waited for Wyatt to lead the way into the wagon and followed Sawyer.

“I really need to get some lanterns,” Jim muttered to himself after seeing how dark it was getting inside the wagon.

Chapter 30

Jim had spent the night in the wagon after sampling the sake and deciding he wanted to avoid Sena. He was pleased with the sake’s taste and thought it would sell well. Jim had also showed them how to make popcorn, which Eli loved and claimed he wanted everyday much to Nora’s annoyance.

Jim had signed an additional contract for it with Aaron, Nora, and Wyatt. Jim would get first rights to the sake and in return he would pay 1 silver per bottle just as anyone else would buying from them. If the village had 100 bottles or less, Jim was guaranteed the sake. Anything more than 100 bottles could be sold to other merchants at the same 1 silver per bottle price.

Jim had decided on the 100-bottle option so his new business partners would not be tempted to sell behind his back. Beyond that, Jim would receive 10 silvers for every 2-gold worth of sake sold plus 100 pounds of rice. Jim felt he could have pushed for more but decided that was a fair enough deal.

As a traveling merchant, he did not have a set schedule. This made Jim wonder how Michael did it since he traded with the village so often. An hour after dawn, Michael, Sawyer, Amir, and the captains emerged from the Crawler. Jim asked his fellow merchant how he kept to the schedule.

“I mostly stay in Swift River. It’s not a bad village and is a bit larger than Catfish Landing. It’ll probably become a town within a few more years,” Michael explained. “When needed or when I want, I switch with a family member so I can return to Raven’s Rest. I’ll do that this time so I can introduce you to Xavier, our enchanter.”

“Alright. That makes sense.”

“We’ll be leaving here in two hours after the fish are loaded. When will you leave?”

“Right after I buy a few things from Billings. I need some lanterns and oil.”

“Damn. That is not something I normally carry. If you can wait, I’ll give you a deal in Swift River.”

“I’d rather have them for tonight.”

“Fair enough.”

“Do you have bedding in Swift River?”

“We do.”

“I’ll buy some from you if the quality is good.”

“I think you’ll find it acceptable.”

“Do you have any small bags?”

“I have some that are used to sell candy in. I brought 100 as I normally sell some hard candy to the children here and Billings. Why?”

“How much for the bags?”

“I won’t sell you all of them, but I’ll sell you half for 25 coppers.”

“Deal,” Jim instantly agreed to the price. He didn’t mind paying that much for bags and hoped to make use of this Xavier, so he didn’t Bargain.

“Here you go,” Michael said as he gave Jim the bags. “Why do you want them?”

“You’ll see in Swift River,” Jim answered with a smile as he put the bags in his ring. They were the perfect size for a small bag of popcorn.

“Fair enough.”

“Alright. Then I’ll see you in Swift River,” Jim replied as he walked toward Billings’ shop. He would rouse the man from his bed if he had to. Jim ended up spending 8 silvers and 25 coppers for the bags, 5 lanterns with a couple jugs of oil, 10 bottles of sake, and a wolfskin rug before he left Catfish Landing. He had also ticked off Sena, who had wanted to travel with him, when he refused her. Jim was eager to get on the road, not for a relationship.

*

The trip was going well for the most part. Jim’s party had only stopped for lunch at noon. The jackstocks were proving their worth and then some, especially since Jim acquired them for nothing. The mules seemed tireless and happy to pull his wagon. If only his guards seemed happy. The two were taciturn and rarely spoke, even to each other. Jim wondered if that was due to his only agreeing to a short-term contract with them.

The two men had wanted a six-month contract worth a combined 60 silvers. Instead of agreeing to that, Jim heeded Wyatt’s advice, and only agreed to pay the mercs 2 silvers each to get him to Raven’s Rest safely. Wyatt had noted something seemed off about Sawyer and Amir but couldn’t say what it was. Jim wondered if they had PTSD. The pair would not talk about past contracts, so Jim reckoned he wouldn’t be finding out.

Amir found a clearing off the trail an hour before sunset that was large enough to hold Jim’s wagon, the guards’ tents, and their animals near a stream. Jim agreed to stop for the night. Jim loaned Sawyer 10 of his traps to help guard their camp’s perimeter while Amir gathered some branches for firewood while Jim tended to Peggy and Al. Jim then brushed down and fed the guards’ horses as they finished setting up the camp.

“Thanks, Mr Merchant,” Sawyer said as he saw Jim caring for the horses. “You don’t have to do that.”

“It’s not a problem,” Jim waved the man’s concern away. “I sort of enjoy it and it helps out. And you don’t have to call me Mr Merchant. Everybody calls me Jim.”

“Ok…Jim.” Sawyer helped Jim feed and water the animals.

“Trail rations are the worst part of traveling over land,” Amir groused as he sat on a campstool, he had brought along by the fire he started.

“Don’t eat that. I’ll cook after I wash my hands,” Jim offered. “We’ll have bison burgers and fries.”

“What are those? Amir asked.

“Ground bison meat shaped into a patty and sliced potatoes that are fried. The potatoes are most often cut into rectangular slices, but they can be round as well,” Jim explained. He was suddenly struck with inspiration once more. “Huh.”

“What is it?” Sawyer asked.

“I just came up with a good idea.”

“Care to let us in on it?” Amir inquired. He setup four of Jim’s lanterns around the camp. One they left hanging above the seats on Jim’s wagon.

“I’ll show you after I fix supper,” Jim answered with a smile. “I think you’ll enjoy them if I can make it work.”

*

“You were right Jim. Those burgers and fries were good,” Amir praised Jim’s cooking.

“I agree,” Sawyer stated. “What is this other idea you had?”

“Watch and learn,” Jim replied. He produced four potatoes and peeled them. He then sliced the potatoes into as thin of round slices as he could. Jim put them into a pot filled with oil and added some salt. Jim hung the pot over the fire on the holder that was used for that purpose. “I don’t know what the right amount of salt is, so I’ll only use a little.”

“Are these thin fries?”

“No. These are called potato chips. Chips are eaten cold instead of hot like fries,” Jim answered. “I’ll let these cool after they finish frying, and we’ll eat them as a snack tomorrow.”

“Alright.”

“Jim, do you mind taking the first watch?” Amir asked.

“I don’t mind. This will take a while to cook. How long do I have to sit up and what do I do if I spot something?”

“Four hours and yell,” Sawyer laughed.

“I don’t have a watch or way to tell time.”

“Use this,” Amir said and gave Jim an hourglass. When the sand runs out, flip it over.”

“Alright. Who has the next watch?”

“I do,” Sawyer answered.

“Get some sleep then,” Jim urged. He updated his inventory while the guards laid down and the chips cooked.

{Gold 17 Silver 37 Copper 25}

After the chips cooked, Jim put some of the corn on over the fire to dry. He deducted a bushel of potatoes and corn from his inventory. If the chips tasted good, he would use the rest of the bushel to make chips. The bushel of corn would become popcorn. Three and a half hours later, Jim had put away his dried corn kernels and woke Sawyer. Jim retired to his wagon feeling quite pleased.

Chapter 31

They were an hour away from Swift River when Jim’s deal with the mercenaries was challenged. A group of goblin bandits attacked and were killed by Sawyer and Amir. Jim had hidden in the wagon per the agreement while the fighting was happening. Once it was over, the merc looted the bandits and tossed their corpses into the woods on either side of the trail. What came into question was that the deal stated Jim had first dibs on any loot, herbs, crafting materials, and such found as he was the employer.

While looting the bodies, Amir and Sawyer placed some items into their inventory while tossing most of the junk into a pile for Jim to look at. Jim knew confronting the mercs could be a very bad idea. The goblins had numbered 10, and all been levels 3 and 4 including a shaman, while Sawyer was level 7 and Amir level 8. Even though the goblins had outnumbered the guards and had magic, they were slaughtered with ease. Knowing he would be killed, awaken in Catfish Landing, and possibly lose his wagon kept Jim from confronting the two men. Jim wasn’t worried about losing the mules. They were bound to him like his ring.

After the guards finished looting the bodies and had tossed them aside, Amir announced that he was going to look for the goblins’ camp. Jim knew he wanted to see if there was more loot to be had. Amir left Sawyer to look after Jim after exchanging a few quiet words which Jim’s enhanced hearing heard anyway.

“This is not part of our deal.”

“Pick through the loot and see if there is anything you want while we wait,” Sawyer told him. Jim felt it was more an order than suggestion. Jim Inspected the pile of broken spears, shields, and bronze short swords from the porch of his wagon. It was all worthless.

“The whole pile is worthless junk.”

“Yeah, it is,” Sawyer grinned. “Maybe you will have better luck next time.”

“Clear the crap from the trail so we can go.”

“You get down and move it.”

“Who is paying who?”

“Fine.” Sawyer scowled at Jim as he kicked the trashed weapons into the brush on the side of the path. He mounted his horse. “Happy now?”

Jim didn’t answer and checked the time. Amir had been gone 10 minutes by now. The one good thing that had happened from this contract was that Jim now knew Stormgion had a 24-hour day just like earth. Jim had found a way to show the time in his vision along with a mini map. Jim once more wished Anu had given him more of a heads up about the capabilities of his system.

“We’re moving on,” Jim announced five minutes later.

“We’re waiting for Amir.”

“Sawyer, you can wait if you want to. Amir is not sticking to the contract and I’m tired of waiting.”

“He’s trying to make sure the area is safe.”

“No. He’s looking for more loot just like whatever you two took from the bodies,” Jim retorted. Sawyer tried to subtly intimidate Jim by putting a hand on his sword’s pommel.

“We’re supposed to make sure the area is safe for you.”

“No. You’re supposed to get me to Swift River and then Raven’s Rest. You’re not supposed to make sure the area is safe!” Jim nearly shouted. “Now, get out of my way.”

“What happens if you run into monsters, beasts, or more bandits?”

“Then I get jumped, robbed, or killed,” Jim answered. Jim released the break and snapped the reins. “Giddy up Al. Giddy up Peggy.”

Sawyer tried to stay in the middle of the path, but his horse was smart enough to move out of the way of the jackstocks and wagon. Jim briefly thought about tossing a silver at the merc and telling him the contract was voided, but he was too pissed to do that now. Plus, he was a little worried that Sawyer would attack him if he did.

*

Sawyer watched the wagon move further down the trail. Indecision weighed on him. Jim was correct that he and Amir wanted whatever loot they could get. He didn’t feel guilty about cheating the merchant. They were the ones doing the fighting after all. But Jim was also correct in that they had signed a contract. The two had decided to become guards as they thought it would be easier and more profitable defending lazy merchants than going from one battle and kingdom to the next or adventuring.

“Amir! Jim is leaving!” Sawyer shouted. He waited two minutes and repeated his shout. Feeling like he had warned his companion enough, he took off after the irritating merchant’s ridiculous wagon.

Sawyer caught up with Merchant a few minutes later and galloped past the wagon. He glared at Jim as he passed the wagon. The huge mules did not react to Sawyer’s horse other than a twitch of the ears from the male and that whinny/hee-hah sound they make from the female. The merchant didn’t react at all much to Sawyer’s disappointment.

*

Amir came thundering up to the wagon crested a hill and Swift River came into view. He slowed his horse to walk beside the wagon and glared at Merchant. “You should have waited for me. I was ensuring your safety!”

“Cut the crap. You were looking for loot and we both know it,” Jim stated. He kept his eyes on the village instead of even glancing at the merc. He was still ticked off and didn’t know if it was more because the mercs were cheating him out of his share of the loot or because they didn’t respect him. It didn’t matter in the end as he had decided to end their contract once they stopped in the village.

Michael had not been totally truthful. Swift River wasn’t just a little bit bigger than Catfish Landing and Rock Hope, it was almost twice the size of either of the other villages and existed on both sides of the river. Where Catfish Landing had a wooden wall, Swift River was circled by a 10 ft stone wall that guards patrolled on. Some fields extended from the western wall out to a 25 ft clearing before the forest. The river was gated on both ends of the village and Jim could see two bridges crossed the river as well.

“I was doing my job,” Amir insisted.

“Right, sure you were,” Jim snorted. Jim caught a fallen tree move in the river from the corner of his eye. Focusing on it, Jim noticed the tree was an animal.

{River Caiman Level 5}

The caiman was over 10 ft long. Jim was able to pick out a couple of others in the river and sunning on the bank. The one in the river just had its head up with the rest of its body under the water. Jim thought it was massive judging by the size of its head.

{River Caiman Level 7}

{River Caiman Level 10}

“No wonder they have such a huge wall and the river gated,” Jim muttered.

“What was that?”

“Wasn’t talking to you.”

“Merchant, we need to communicate if Sawyer and I are going to do the job you are paying us to,” Amir said trying to sound reasonable. Jim refused to say a thing. Al must have picked up on Jim’s mood somehow as the jackstock eased to the left which forced Amir’s horse off the trail. “Control your beasts!”

“They’re on the trail and have a mind of their own,” Jim shrugged. Amir scowled at Jim and rode up to join Sawyer. “Good going Al. I’ll give you a carrot for that when we stop in the village.”

Peggy made the whinny/hee-haw sound.

“Ok. You’ll get one too.”

*

“Except for your bedroll, rug, lantern, and some cooking equipment, your wagon is very empty Mr Merchant,” Josephine, the guard captain told Jim. “Interesting design though. I’ve never seen the like before.

“It’s a new design,” Jim admitted. “Wyatt, Nora, and Jaxon in Catfish Landing just finished it a few days ago.”

“Every merchant I’ve seen with a wagon pack them with merchandise. Of course, they leave their more expensive wares in their storage rings or bags.”

“This wagon is going to be my home on the road. Hopefully, I’ll get it enchanted and able to store more goods eventually, but for now it being a nice roof over my head and a comfortable place to sleep is more important,” Jim informed the guard. He showed her an edited version of his inventory list that didn’t have costs listed when she asked to see his wares. Josephine glanced at Jim’s wooden ring.

“Smart thinking with that wooden storage ring,” she whispered to him. “Most merchants love to flash their wealth with gold or platinum rings.”

“As you can see by my level, I’m just starting out.”

“What are these grills, sake, potato chips, and popcorn you have on your list?”

“Find me when your shift is done, and I’ll be glad to show you,” Jim replied with a grin as she returned his notebook and pen.

“Ok. I’ll do that. I think I want one of those pens and notebooks too,” Josephine informed Jim as she stepped off the wagon and waved him through the gates.

“You seem to have a way with the ladies Jim,” Sawyer remarked. Josephine yelled at the gawkers, including her guards, to clear the road so Jim could enter the village. Instead of answering the merc, Jim no longer considered him or Amir guards, he twitched the reins to get Al and Peggy going again.

Chapter 32

As Jim pulled the wagon into the village square, which was being used as a market, a woman selling produce asked, “How much for those beasts? My husband and I could use them on the farm.”

“They’re not for sale,” Jim answered with a smile. “Al and Peggy are almost like family.”

“Ha! Family indeed,” the woman chuckled. Jim scanned her stand and saw she had some apples.

“How much are your apples?”

“Two for three coppers. How many do you want?”

“How many do you have?”

“Two bushels. So, 50 give or take.”

“I’ll take at least one bushel. Peggy and Al love apples. I’ll be back once I park.”

“I’ll be here.”

One of Michael’s captains spotted Jim when he exited a shop trailed by a lad. He caught Jim’s eye and waved him to an empty space in front of a gated compound. After a word with the boy, he ran into the compound. Jim noticed the mercs followed. Jim set the front brake, entered the wagon, and set the rear brake. He emerged and shut the door. “Going to have to see about a lock or getting it enchanted so only I can enter.”

“It’s good to see you Jim,” the captain greeted him. “I’ve sent a lad to let Mr Barrett know you have arrived.”

{Captain Graham Level 7}

Jim shook the captain’s hand after jumping down and using Inspect to learn the man’s name. It took Jim a second to remember that Barrett was Michael’s last name. He nodded in understanding. “It’s good to see you made it safe as well Captain Graham. I saw three of the caimans in the river. One of those could eat one of my mules.”

“Aye. They are vicious beasts and will attack boats if hungry enough.”

“I need to tend the mules and go back to a stand where a woman was selling apples. Al and Peggy will appreciate the treat,” Jim said. He produced the water trough Jaxon’s apprentices had made and spent several minutes filling it from the village well. Once filled, he placed it in front of his mules which started drinking their fill. Jim unharnessed and hobbled the mules after they finished drinking.

“Don’t worry about your wagon and jackstocks,” Graham told Jim. “Your two guards are here, and the Barrett house guards will also watch your belongings.”

“Good to know,” Jim replied without looking at the mercs. Graham noticed but did not comment. “I’m not worried about anyone stealing Al and Peggy. They won’t obey anyone but me.”

“Are you sure about that?”

“Oh yes. I’m positive,” Jim answered. “Want to join me while I get those apples?”

“Why not?” Graham replied and the two men walked toward the stall in question.

*

“I think we made a mistake, Amir.”

“How? By not being nicer or by taking our due?” Amir asked as they watched Jim and the boat captain walk off. “He’s just a worthless merchant. Jim is arrogant enough to even take Merchant as a name.”

“I have the feeling he is going to fire us.”

“He can’t. We have a contract.”

“Which we broke twice.”

“As long as we stick to the story that we were making sure the area was safe after the attack, we have nothing to worry about. I saw the discarded pile of junk. He didn’t want it and neither did we, so we have nothing to worry about from that either.”

“He saw us take stuff off the bodies.”

“No way.”

“He also seemed to have heard us talk before you went searching for the bandit camp too.”

“You’re worrying for nothing. He’s human, not an elf or orc. Humans don’t have the eyesight or hearing that you are giving him credit with,” Amir replied. “With what we took, and I found, we should have a gold or two worth of loot to sell. So, relax. He can’t prove anything regardless.”

*

“I can’t believe you bought both bushels of apples.”

“You haven’t seen Al and Peggy eat apples before. Besides, I like them and this way I might get two or three before the mules eat them all.”

“Alright. I’ll take your word for it.”

“Graham, does Michael employ enough guards on the way to Raven’s Rest to cover my wagon as well?”

“I’m not sure. I never leave the river. Why do you ask?”

“Things have not worked out with Amir and Swayer the way I hoped. They have breached our contract twice today.”

“How so?” Graham asked. Jim explained the bandit attack and the aftermath.

“Are you sure they said that and that you saw what you think you saw?”

“I’m positive. I have enhanced senses.”

“Really?”

“Aye,” Jim answered. The boat captain gawked at Jim.

“Isn’t all this,” Graham gestured at the village, “a bit much then?”

“I’ve gotten used to the enhancement, and it all seems natural to me now,” Jim answered. Plus, coming back from the dead made the enhancement truly a part of him.

“Somehow, I believe you.”

“Thanks,” Jim replied.

“What are you going to do with them?”

“Fire them. Guards are no good to me if I cannot trust them.”

“There is a lot of truth in that statement,” Graham agreed as they turned back toward the wagon and compound.

*

“I can’t believe you got Vivian to sell you 15 cups for 1 silver or 5 loafs of bread from Clara for 10 coppers,” Graham remarked as they returned to the wagon. “Just how high is your Haggling skill?”

“What Haggling skill?” Jim asked with a smile. “I leveled it to Bartering days ago.

“With your level? That’s impossible!”

“I’ve had some setbacks that cost me some levels and I’ve done a lot of deals in a short time.”

“I’ve never heard of anyone losing levels,” Michael said as he joined them.

“I didn’t think it was possible,” Graham added.

“Oh, it’s possible.”

“You must have upset the gods.”

“I don’t think so,” Jim replied. “I don’t have a curse or anything like that.”

“Even still, it might be worth going to the temple and make an offering along with some prayer,” Michael stated. Jim looked around the square and spotted the temple. It was twice the size of the one in Rock Hope but looked the same otherwise.

“Maybe I will,” Jim said to placate the other merchant. He wanted to change the subject. “How long before you leave for Raven’s Rest?”

“We’ll be leaving at first light tomorrow.”

“That’s good. It’ll give me the rest of the day to sell some of my wares,” Jim replied as he pulled his table and chair from inventory. Jim pulled a bigger grill out and a bolt of fabric to use as a tablecloth.

“What are you doing with that metal thing?” Graham asked.

“This is a grill,” Jim answered as he added some charcoal. “I’m going to use it to cook some meat to show how it works. And I’m going to give the meat away as samples or gifts for people that check out what I offer.”

“That’s…good thinking,” Michael said. “I might use that idea in the future.”

“I would be surprised if you didn’t,” Jim replied as he lit the grill.

“You need an assistant.”

“Yeah, I do,” Jim admitted. “Speaking of stuff I need, you mentioned you had bedding.”

“I do,” Michael agreed. “If you want the best bedding available, I can have a down stuffed mattress brought to you.”

“Will it fit in the bed space in the wagon?”

“That looked about the size of a normal inn bed, so it should.”

“How much do you want for it?”

“Ten silvers.”

“If I like it, I’ll trade you a bottle of sake for it,” Jim counteroffered. Graham laughed as he knew that was something his employer desired.

“Argh. Fine, we have a deal,” Michael replied. He turned to a boy that had followed him from the compound. “Joel, go tell Jesse in the warehouse to have a down stuffed mattress brought out here for Mr Merchant.”

“Yes sir!” the boy replied before scampering off.

“Now we wait, and I’ll watch you work,” Michael told Jim as he pulled a chair from his inventory. “Is there anything else you wish to discuss?”

“Yeah, there is,” Jim answered with a glance at the mercenaries.

Chapter 33

Jim updated his inventory. One bottle of sake was traded for his mattress. Another he had sold to Josephine along with a notebook and pen for 30 silvers. Jim thought he could have charged even more, but he preferred to be friendly with the guards. Jim also sold three grills for 1 gold and 75 silvers. That was a good tradeoff for one loaf of bread and a pound of bison meat. The cups, bread, and apples were considered personal items and expenses, so Jim didn’t add them to his inventory.

The popcorn and potato chips Jim sold had proven extremely popular. Jim sold 25 bags of each within an hour of giving away a few samples. He ended up charging 3 coppers a bag on a whim. He bought an additional 250 bags from Michael and sold another 50 combined bags of both before dusk. That paid for the bags and gave Jim a little profit, so he considered it a win much to Michael’s amusement. Jim also bought a case of 20 bottles for 1 silver and a load, well small wagon full of firewood for another silver. Jim stored most of the wood in his Traveler’s Pack. A little bit of it went into his ring for easy access.

{Gold 19 Silver 27 Copper 60}

Jim decided to use 20 pounds of his rice to make more sake while on the road. From what he remembered of the homebrewing articles he had read; 20 pounds of rice should make 2 gallons of sake. Jim wanted to add apples slices to it while it fermented to see if he could make apple flavored sake. Jim added the bottles to his inventory but hoped to fill them with apple flavored sake in Raven’s Rest.

Jim had fired the mercs after Michael agreed to provide him with security on the trip to Raven’s Rest for 10 silvers. Both merchants knew Michael had Jim over a barrel, so Jim paid the fee without complaint. Amir and Sawyer were angry over being dismissed. Jim felt safe between the village guards and Michael’s house guards, so he had paid the mercs half of the agreed fee and thought nothing else of it for the rest of the afternoon as he made sales and cooked additional pots of chips and popcorn.

*

“Knock, knock,” a feminine voice said and knocked on Jim’s wagon as night fell over the village. The wagon’s door was open while Jim turned off the burners beneath the rice and some bison meat cutup into tips he had gotten from Swift River’s butcher. Jim had added water to the bison tips in the hope of making a thin gravy but knew it just wouldn’t be the same. He also didn’t have hushpuppies or biscuits, so bread would have to do. Still, it was better than a stew and sort of a taste of home.

Jim stuck his head out of the doorway and looked around. His eyes settled on a chocolate skinned woman wearing a light green dress with open toe sandals instead of leather armor. Her hair was down and shoulder length instead of in the bun she had earlier in the day. “Josephine?”

“Yes.”

“You look amazing.”

“Oh please. I’m 44 and probably old enough to be your mother,” the guard captain replied with a pleased smile. “But thank you for the compliment.”

“You don’t look a day over 30, which isn’t that much older than me,” Jim told her and returned the smile. “Is there something I can do for you or the guard?”

“I was hoping to treat you to dinner at the Heron, which is a tavern here, and get to know the newest traveling merchant in the area better. I also have a bottle of this new expensive wine to drink.”

“I was cooking actually.”

“Oh. Perhaps next time you’re in the village then,” Josephine replied as her smile faded. She started to turn and leave.

“Would you like to join me? I should have enough for two people.”

“I would like that.”

“Then please come in,” Jim replied and extended a hand to help her climb up. Josephine took Jim’s hand and climbed up onto the porch. Josephine was at least six foot tall. “Be careful of the lantern.”

“Thank you,” she said taking his hand.

“It’s my pleasure,” Jim told the pretty guard captain as Josephine finished climbing up and stepped closer. Josephine had high cheekbones, a small straight nose, and a small mouth featuring full lips. She smelled faintly of jasmine and had not let go of his hand. Their eyes met and Jim thought Josephine’s intelligent brown eyes were her most striking feature. “It might be bit cozy with both of us in the wagon.”

“I’m sure we’ll be fine,” Josephine replied as Jim led her into the wagon. She shut the door as he pulled the table out from under the bed and then took her sandals off leaving them beside the door. She grinned as she watched him look embarrassed as he set the table with mismatched plates and utensils. “I don’t mind that you don’t have matching plates or silverware. Entertaining guests is probably something you haven’t had in mind.”

“That is something I’ll have to rectify in Raven’s Rest. I hope you don’t mind rice and bison tips with a thin gravy and bread,” Jim said as he offered Josephine her choice of the side benches. She sat on the right.

“I’ve never had rice and bison tips before,” she hesitated over the word, “Bison tip are something we generally add to soup or cook in a stew.”

“Would you like water or sake with the meal?”

“Well, I do have my bottle of sake.”

“Save that. I have the open one I used to let you and a few others sample from. Plus, I can always open another if needed.”

“It’s a poor merchant that drinks up all his wares.”

“Too true.”

“Let’s start with water and we can drink the sake as the night goes.”

“Your wish is my command.”

“Teach that to my guards,” Josephine laughed. “And please call me Josie.”

*

“So, you have been a guard your whole adult life and the captain the last 5 years?”

“Yes.”

“And you lost your husband a 15 years ago to caimans?”

“Yes.”

Jim noticed that answer was said with some sadness. “I’m sorry for your loss.”

“Thank you.”

“You never had children and nobody else has tried to court you since?” Jim asked in disbelieve.

“No children and several have asked but were turned down.”

“Why?”

“They didn’t interest me.”

“Oh.”

“This wagon needs a woman’s touch if it is going to be your home for a while. It needs curtains, paint, flowers, and the like,” Josie observed from where she was lounging on Jim’s bed. She wanted to change the subject and Jim didn’t mind. He was sitting in his chair where the table had been.

“Are you offering?”

“No. Just pointing out the obvious,” she answered. She held her cup out. “Give me a refill please.”

“These types of wagons were brightly painted back home.” Jim refilled the cup with sake as requested. Josie sat up and downed it in one go. “Bravo.”

“Hush you,” she slightly slurred and fell back onto the bed. “That’s enough for me. I don’t want you thinking I’m a drunk.”

“The thought never crossed my mind. Having a buzz shouldn’t hurt anyone.” Jim promised and crossed his heart. Josie looked at him funny. “That’s a sign of making a promise where I’m from. And buzz is a term used to describe feeling good, but not drunk.”

“I can see that. I sort of feel like a bee is flying around in my head,” Josie giggled. She surged to her feet and swayed. “I should be going home.”

Jim jumped up and steadied the guard captain. Jim’s left hand was on her right shoulder and his right hand rested on her left hip. Their eyes met again. “I think you should stay here tonight. Can’t have others thinking their guard captain was out getting drunk with a vagabond.”

“You want me to share your bed?” Josie asked in a husky voice.

“Well, when you put it like that…” Jim got out before Josephine’s lips crushed his. Jim pulled her closer as the kiss lengthened and his hands found Josie’s butt after hers found his. The kiss broke. “Yes, I would love to have you share my bed tonight.”

“Then shut up and get undressed,” Josie commanded as she stepped back and started undoing her dress.

“Yes, my captain,” Jim replied. A moment later he put out the lantern.

*

Just as night passed into the witching hour, two masked men wearing dark leather armor observed the wagon as the village guards exited the square. The pair quietly crept up to the wagon warily watching the sleeping mules. Neither man wished to be kicked by those beasts.

“Merchant should be deeply sleeping by now. He put out the lantern over two hours ago,” whispered Amir.

“What about the woman? She never left the wagon,” Sawyer pointed out.

“Who cares? If we must, we kill her and leave the killing weapon in Merchant’s wagon. It’ll be his word against the scene the guards find,” Amir explained. He quickly warmed to the idea. “In fact, that would be better revenge than robbing the bastard.”

“We should do both then,” Sawyer whispered back. “Enough people saw us stagger drunkenly to our room we have an alibi. Plus, masked, he won’t recognize us.”

“Let’s do it then,” Amir agreed. He quietly climbed up the wagon. Sawyer climbed up the other side so both were on either side of the door. Sawyer put out the lantern, dousing the area into more darkness. “Are you ready?”

Sawyer nodded in agreement. Amir opened the door and slipped into the wagon.

*

“You should learn how to move quietly and make plans before you try to creep up on people,” Josephine said. Amir’s eyes widened in alarm just as Jim’s chair hit him. He flew back into Sawyer and both men fell out of the wagon and onto the ground. Jim bolted upright and stared.

Josephine kept her grip on two chair legs and jumped out of the wagon after the mercenaries only wearing Jim’s shirt. Upon landing, Josie kicked Sawyer under the chin as he got to his knees. She spun and hit Amir over the head with both chair legs as Sawyer flew onto his back. The would-be thief and assassin collapsed onto his face and did not stir. Josie used a command skill and shouted, “Guards to me!”

“They won’t get here in time to save you!” a bloody Sawyer exclaimed as he drew two daggers.

Josephine smiled in answer. The only part of her visible in the dark was the whites of eyes and teeth. She hurled one chair leg at Sawyer. He ducked it easily enough. While he was rising, Josie spun and lashed out with the other chair leg. The backhanded blow took the mercenary square in the jaw, breaking teeth. The man fell onto his front. Josephine followed up the strike with another to the back of his head, knocking him out as the guards arrived.

Lantern light flooded the area from the guards and from the two Jim had lit. Standing clad only in Jim’s shirt, Josephine looked a sight. Two of the guards that arrived at the wagon were men and they stared at their captain’s legs. The other three were women and one of them stared as well after saluting Josephine. The other two women smacked the men in the back of their heads. “Stop staring and salute!”

Josie ignored the stares and byplay. She issued orders. “Lucy, take this filth and lock them up. Make sure you fully check them for weapons and gear. Have the priestess check them out in the morning as soon as possible. I want them in front of the headman no later than midmorning.”

“Ma’am, shouldn’t you put more on?” a guard named Victor asked.

“What I am wearing is none of your concern and I never want to hear a word whispered about it either,” Josie forcibly said with a glare at all five guards.

A chorus of “yes ma’am” answered her.

“I’ll get a statement from Mr Merchant,” Josie informed the guards as they picked up the mercenaries and carried them off. She turned and looked up and Jim, who was still watching her in awe. “This night got more exciting in a bad way.”

“Yeah, it has taken a turn that I did not want,” Jim agreed with a nervous grin.

“You’ll be expected to give a statement to the headman tomorrow.”

“We were supposed to leave first thing in the morning.”

“I’ll make sure that Barrett won’t leave without you,” she replied as she walked to the side of the wagon. Jim extended a hand that she took.

“My shirt looks good on you,” Jim said as she climbed up and stood in front of him. Josie blushed as she felt the hem that barely covered her.

“I guess I should change and go home.”

“I think you should stay. You saved my life and I at least owe you breakfast for that,” Jim replied as he gathered his wits. “Besides, I’m up in more ways than one now.”

“So, I see,” Josie agreed as she looked down. Licking her lips, she said, “I suppose we need to burn off some steam before we can get a little rest.”

“I agree with that.”

“And I can honor your offer of breakfast easier if I’m already here,” Josie stated. Jim pulled Josie into the wagon and shut the door. She pulled him close and kissed him. “What did you have in mind for breakfast?”

“Have you ever had a ham omelet?”

“No. Never heard of it either.”

“This world is so deprived,” Jim muttered as Josie dragged him to bed.

Chapter 34

“You were right. That was good Jim,” Josie praised his cooking efforts the next morning.

“I think it would have been better with chicken, but I haven’t found a butcher that sells them yet,” Jim complained. Josie laughed. “What?”

“Every butcher sells chicken. You just have to get there early to enough before they run out. You told me you’re from another world, but I thought everyone knew what chickens are.”

“We’re talking about little birds that can’t fly and crow at sunrise?”

“Yes,” Josephine laughed.

“Just double checking.”

“Sure.”

“Coffee would be good to. Nora and Wyatt had some in Catfish Landing, but I haven’t found anyone that sells it.”

“Your friend Barrett sells coffee. He charges a lot for it though.”

“Figures.”

“I need to get home before folks start leaving their houses,” Josie said as she stood up. She pushed the table back into its cubbie and crossed to Jim. “You’re welcome to use my tub if you like.”

“If I take you up on that invitation, you won’t get what you need doing done and neither will I,” Jim replied as he put his arms around her waist.

“I’ll be back after I bathe and check in on my new guests. The headman will want to know what you want done with them.”

“Leave them in prison.”

“That’s not the way of our world. It’s either slavery or death for criminals. If it is a smaller crime such as stealing, then the thief will be indentured for so many years,” Josie told Jim as she pulled back so she could look into his eyes. “You need to accept that.”

“At least it’s not cutting off a hand.”

“What kind of barbaric practice is that?”

“One that a lot of countries on my world used to practice hundreds of years ago and a few still do.”

“Parts of your world sound nice, but that is insane.”

“I agree. That said, I don’t know if I can be responsible for two men being killed or sold into slavery. I saw a kid that was enslaved after I resurrected for the first time. The same bandits that robbed and killed me had enslaved him. I told Rock Hope’s guards I didn’t want the kid when they offered him to me. They gave him to the headman since the kid is an enchanter. That was probably a huge mistake on my part. Even if the gnomes killed him, he would be better off than being a slave.”

“Perhaps. Don’t second guess yourself. You didn’t want the responsibility and standard practice is if a person can prove they were wrongfully enslaved, to sell or give them back to their families.”

“Ok. I don’t want to know about whatever happens to Amir and Sawyer.”

“I cannot promise that. People talk,” Josie shrugged. She kissed him and walked to the door. “I’ll see you in a little while.”

*

Jim checked his sheet and the time.

{

Jim Merchant

Level: 3

Class: Merchant

Health: 140

Stamina: 140

Strength(6)

Endurance(6)

Dexterity(7)

Charisma(12)

Intelligence(10)

Wisdom(7)

Luck(10)

Skills: Inspect(6)

Bartering(1)

Harvesting(1)

Invention(3)

Strategy(1)

Tactics(1)

Gold:19

Silver:27

Copper:60

}

Jim then looked out a window. The sky was getting lighter. Jim put out the lanterns and returned them to his inventory. He needed to feed the mules. Jim put on his boots and left the wagon. He returned the outside lantern to inventory before jumping off the porch. Peggy and Al both nudged Jim when he approached them.

“How are my favorite two mules this morning?” Jim asked the jackstocks. He gave each half an apple so he could refill the water trough and get them some hay.

“Morning Jim,” Michael greeted his fellow merchant as he walked out of his gate.

“Morning Michael. I didn’t expect you to be up yet.”

“The early bird gets on the road quicker.”

“I thought it was the early bird gets the worm.”

“That too,” Michael replied with a grin.

“I take it neither the village guards nor your house guards haven’t talked to you yet?”

“About what?”

“I was attacked last night by Amir and Sawyer. They wanted to rob me, kill my guest, and frame me for murder.”

“Really?” Michael asked in shock.

“Yes.”

“That’s not good. Are you and this guest, ok?”

“Yeah.”

“Good. I suppose the village guards wants you to stay long enough to give a statement to the headman.”

“Yeah.”

“That’s not good. I wanted to get an early start.”

“You can go without me.”

“No. You paid for my protection, so we will wait and leave at noon instead of this morning,” Michael assured Jim. He turned to go back into the compound. “I’ll let my people know and question the guards.”

“Ok. Thanks.”

*

Jim returned to the wagon to find Josephine rubbing his mules two hours later. He had sat outside the butcher’s shop until the couple opened for business and bought 20 pounds of chicken in the form of wings and breasts. Jim paid a copper a pound for the chicken. Josie was wearing her leather armor once more.

“Jim, where have you been?” the guard captain asked as he walked up.

“You have enhanced senses, don’t you?”

“I do.”

“I was at the butcher buying chicken.”

“Took my advice huh?”

“Sure did,” Jim grinned. “Do I need to go with you to talk to the headman?”

“No. I have taken care of it. Some of Barrett’s guards gave statements and since I was attacked, you weren’t needed.”

“Thanks.”

“You’re welcome,” Josie replied. She looked at Jim and nodded to herself. “Come with me.”

“Where are we going? Since I don’t have to testify, Michael will probably want to get on the road.”

“He’s waiting until noon. Now come on. We’re going to a farm just outside the village.”

“What for?”

“A surprise.”

“Is that all you’re going to tell me?”

“This surprise is also a reward of sorts. Swift River is keeping the money and loot Sawyer and Amir had. Since that is happening, the headman agreed to allow me to give you a gift to make up for it.”

“Still don’t want to go with me?”

“No. But I’ll be here when you return,” Josie answered with a smile.

*

Jim heard barking before they entered the farm. “Dogs?”

“You’ll see. We’re almost there,” Josie answered. A short while later they came to a barn surrounded by pens. “Clarence! We’re here.”

{Aki Wolf Level 5}

“Those aren’t dogs!” Jim exclaimed. He Inspected several others. The bigger ones were all level 5. The smaller ones ranged from level 1 to level 4 depending on its size. Each of the wolfs were white, black, or grey. One midsize looking one at level 2 was reddish in color with a white underside. All looked like miniature wolves with curly tails. They sort of reminded Jim of Japanese dogs like the Shiba Inu.

“No, they are not,” Josie agreed. “Aki wolves are hunters, protectors, and sometimes trackers, if we have need.”

“They’re beautiful.”

“That they are lad,” a gruff voice agreed. The man that joined them was an older elf.

“It’s good to see you, Clarence.”

“And you, Josephine,” the man returned the greeting. “Are you here for one of my pups? And is this the man that was attacked with you?”

“Yes, and yes,” Josie answered. “I convinced the headman to give Jim one, but still cannot convince him to let us use them on normal patrols or at the gates.”

“Why not?” Jim asked.

“The children love them, and they don’t generally return the affection,” Clarence answered. Most of the pups bond with two or three people at most and will barely tolerate others.”

“Ah. We had dogs like that back home.”

“Take a look and make a choice,” Clarence ordered.

“I suggest a female,” Josie said.

“So, I can compare her to you?” Jim asked with a grin.

“Hardly.”

“The females generally bond quicker with men while the males do so with women.”

“I see. I’ve made a choice.”

“Oh? Which one?”

“The red. She reminds me of the dogs I mentioned.”

“Good choice. I’m not sure where that color came from. I haven’t had a red in over two decades. She’s a sweetheart though,” Clarence informed them before walking to the pen she was in.

“Any idea what you’re going to name her?” Josie asked.

“Kayja”

“Does that mean anything?”

“Precious gift in one language. Extremes in fortune, health, and spirituality in another.”

“That seems like a good fit for you and her,” Josie laughed. “I like it.”

“Just how many languages does this home of yours have?” Clarence asked as he returned with the aki wolf, which had a length of rope tied around her neck as a primitive leash.

“Too many,” Jim laughed.

“Squat down and stare into her eyes. Then tell her what name you are giving her,” Clarence ordered. “That will let her know you are her new owner.”

Jim complied. After Kayja broke eye contact, Jim started to stand. “What do you feed them?”

“Well done,” Clarence informed Jim. “I feed them mostly meat, but also some grains and vegetables. Don’t feed her nuts.”

“Ok. Thank you.”

“Cut your finger and give her this piece of pork.”

“You want me to blood bond her?”

“It pleases me you know what the process is. Do it.”

“Ok,” Jim replied as he pulled a knife and cut a finger. He returned the knife, wiped a little blood on the meat, and fed it to Kayja. Jim then stood and drank a bit of a health potion to stop the bleeding and close the wound.

A few minutes later, Clarence declared the process complete and removed the rope. “She’s all yours. Take care of her.”

“I will,” Jim promised.

“Alright you two. Let’s return to the village,” Josephine said. Clarence had already walked away.

“Let’s go Kayja,” Jim told his new companion as Josephine led the way. Kayja barked, wagged her tail, and ran between them.

Chapter 35

“Jim?”

“Yeah?”

“What’s a dog?”

“An animal that is related to wolves. Over the centuries, they were bred to have all kinds of shapes, sizes, and do various jobs like herding or hunting.”

“Oh. We just use the aki wolves for that.”

“Josie, I want to know what happens if last night leads to you getting pregnant,” Jim quietly said as they entered the village. It had taken longer to return than they thought since the village children kept wanting to touch Kayja. Josephine and another female guard that joined them had to keep running the kids off.

“That won’t happen. I took Maiden’s Milk before I came to you and again when I got home this morning,” replied as quietly as Jim had spoken. “From the look on your face, you’re not sure what Maiden’s Milk is.”

“Keeps a woman or girl from getting pregnant?” Jim hazarded.

“Got it on the first guess,” Josie told him. “It’s one of the two most popular alchemical potions. The other is Stallion’s Blood, which increases a man’s potency.”

“Good to know.”

“Yes, it is,” Josie agreed. “You should find an alchemist to buy those potions from. At the right price, you could make good money at smaller villages.”

“Let me guess, it’s because most villages don’t have alchemists and most village merchants do not stock them due to pressure from elders or some other reason.”

“Bingo. That and price. Both potions are usually expensive.”

“Thanks for the tip. I’ll keep my eyes open.”

“Everyone does unless they are sleeping.”

“No. That is an expression meaning I’ll look out for something. In this case, an alchemist or at least the potions,” Jim laughed.

“Oh. Your world is weird.”

“True,” Jim agreed. “I just thought of something. I wonder how Kayja, Al, and Peggy will get along.”

“The jackstocks will probably not pay her much attention. They are a lot bigger and higher level.”

“We’ll find out in a few minutes.”

“You’ll find out,” Josephine corrected and stopped. The guard stopped as well. “This is where I say goodbye.”

Jim and Kayja stopped after taking another step. “Don’t like long goodbyes?”

“Not really and I have work to do. Mia,” Josie indicated the guard, “will escort you to your wagon. I’ll see you whenever you return. Have a safe trip.”

“Thanks Josephine. Stay safe yourself,” Jim replied. He wanted to step closer and give a hug or goodbye kiss, but Jim could tell from her body language that Josie didn’t think that would be a good idea. “Hopefully, I’ll have some apple flavored sake for you when I come back.”

“I would like that. So long Jim,” she replied and walked off.

“Come on Mr Merchant. Let’s get you to your wagon,” Mia suggested.

“Yeah. It’s time to get on the road,” replied as he met the guard’s eyes instead of watching Josie walk away.

*

“There is a lot of people lined up in front of your wagon”, Mia informed Jim stating the obvious.

“No kidding.”

“Jim!” A voice called out. Looking around, Jim spotted Graham at the Barrett compound gate. Kayja growled at people closest to them, and they started moving out of the way.

“Good girl!” Jim praised his new pet and he started making his way to the gate and boat captain. Mia shook her head and followed. Jim, Kayja, and Mia arrived at the gate a couple of minutes later. “What’s with the crowd?”

“Where have you been?” Graham asked at the same time. Both laughed.

“Josephine took me to get an aki wolf,” Jim answered gesturing to Kayja. He reached down and rubbed the small wolf.

“Those people want to buy chips and popcorn before you leave.”

“Oh.” Jim checked the time. “We still have over an hour before Michael wanted to leave.”

“Yeah. And some of those people have been here since you left.”

Jim pulled out his notebook and checked his inventory. “I have 50 bags of each ready to sell.”

“I’m going to go get a few more guards to control the crowd,” Mia stated and disappeared into the crowd.

“That’s not enough for everybody.”

“It’ll have to do for now,” Jim said. “We don’t have time for me to make more.”

“True.”

“Can you have a couple of guards help clear a path to my wagon?”

“Just use your wolf.”

“I don’t want her biting people,” Jim said. “She is getting nervous.”

“Good point,” Graham conceded. He turned to some guards standing inside the gate. “Layla, you and Carter help Jim. The rest of you stand by to assist if needed. I’ll let Mr Barrett know you’re here.”

“Thanks,” Jim told the retreating captain’s back.

“Follow us, Mr Merchant,” Layla ordered Jim.

*

Unsurprisingly, there was a large open space around Al and Peggy which amused Jim. He checked his mules and gave both an apple. As Josie predicted, the jackstocks didn’t pay much attention to the aki wolf. Kayja sniffed them and even tried running around barking at the mules. The most she got was a tail swished in her direction.

Mia arrived with two other guards as Jim checked on his mules. Between the village guards and the house guards, they got the crowd organized. Jim was thankful Kayja had done her business before they entered the village as he picked her up and set the wolf on the porch. Jim climbed up and opened the wagon door. Kajya followed Jim into the wagon and began exploring the small space. Jim placed a small bowl on the floor near the bathroom and filled it with water. Kayja drank some and then piled down on the wolf fur rug earning a smile from Jim.

He left her there and walked back to the porch after checking to make sure all was in order in the wagon. Jim looked over the crowd and waited until most were watching him.

“Folks, I understand all of you want popcorn or chips,” Jim announced. The crowd agreed through words or nodding their heads. There looked to be at least 75-80 people lined up. Layla and Carter took up positions to either side of him on the ground. “I have 50 bags of each. Since the supply is limited, I can only sell one bag of one or the other to each of you to be fair to all of you. I charge three coppers a bag. Listen to the guards and come up one at a time.”

*

A busy half hour later, Jim had 5 bags of popcorn and 5 bags of chips remaining and was 2 silvers and 70 coppers richer. Jim checked his money and fought to keep a grin from his face.

{19 gold 30 silvers 10 coppers}

Jim thought about keeping the last bags of snacks for himself to eat, but since he could make more, he decided to give them to the guards. “Mia, Layla, Carter, and you other two come here for a moment.”

“What do you need Jim?” Carter asked as the guards gathered around his porch. Jim sat down.

“I just wanted to thank you and give you a bag of chips and popcorn each for your assistance,” Jim answered. Kayja walked up behind Jim and plopped down beside him. He started to rub her back.

“We were just doing our jobs. You don’t have to give us anything.”

“I know, but I want to.”

“I want to try them, so I won’t say no,” Layla told the other guards. They all followed suit after Jim gave her a bag of each. The guards thanked him and left.

“Kayja, stay here. It’s time I hooked Al and Peggy to the wagon,” Jim ordered the wolf with an affectionate pat on the head.

*

“Are you ready to leave Jim?” Michael asked as Jim finished hitching up the mules. The merchant was sitting on a beautiful red roan mare that had a black mane and tail.

“Yep. I Just need to release the brakes and I’ll be ready to roll,” Jim answered. “That’s a beautiful horse.”

“Thank you. I’ll ride part of the way and switch to a wagon since it’s at least a three-day trip,” Michael informed Jim. Jim suddenly had the thought that Michael wanted to be seen as a noble or some such and sighed.

Yeah, Jim wanted to be rich and live a life of luxury, but he wouldn’t show off just to be showing off. Perhaps he didn’t have as much in common with Michael as he thought. Jim’s thoughts were interrupted as three female guards approached on foot.

“Layla, Sadie, and Jade will be your guards for the trip. Your aki wolf will make four.”

“They don’t get horses?”

“No. Half the guards will be riding and half walking. That’s why it’ll take so long to get to Raven’s Rest,” Michael answered. “There will be guards periodically riding up and down the column just in case. Your wagon will be at the end of the caravan.”

“Figures,” Jim muttered as Michael rode back into the compound. Jim turned to the women. “Is he always like this?”

“Mostly,” Sadie hesitantly answered.

“Well ladies, let me go inside and release the rear brake and I’ll be ready to go,” Jim informed them. That earned a snort of amusement from all three. “What did I say wrong?”

“Nothing. Most men wouldn’t call us ladies,” Jade replied. All three women would have passed for bodybuilders on earth. Jade’s arms were as big as one of Jim’s legs. The other two weren’t much smaller. Jim climbed onto the wagon.

“I’m not most men,” he said with a wink as he disappeared into the wagon.

“I’m beginning to see that,” Layla remarked to his back and Kayja, who was still laying in the doorway. She slowly held out a hand to the wolf. Kayja sniffed the offered hand and then licked it. Layla rubbed her head.

“Excuse me,” Jim interrupted. Once Layla withdrew her hand, Jim stepped over his wolf and sat in the driver’s seat. He looked at Kayja. “I think Kayja is letting me know she is the one in charge.”

The three guards laughed. Sadie said, “That’s true for every woman. We just let men think they are in charge.”

“I’ve heard that a few times,” Jim agreed. “Do any of you know how to drive a wagon?”

“We all do,” Jade answered. “Why?”

“Well, you don’t have horses to ride, and I have two seats up here. I was just thinking that you could take turns driving the wagon and riding in the other seat while I cook more chips and popcorn,” Jim answered. The three women exchanged looks.

“I think we’ll take you up on that offer,” Layla replied for them as Michael rode out of the compound leading a line of 6 wagons and two dozen guards. Four of the guards surrounded the merchant. “Guess we’re leaving now.”

“Does this many guards always go on these trips?”

“No. Usually it’s only 12 of us,” Jade answered. “But, when Mr Barrett goes with us, he likes to be safe.”

“Is it a dangerous trip?”

“No more than going anywhere else in the kingdom.”

“We’ll all walk for a while,” Sadie added while casting a glance at Michael. “I’m not sure how the boss would respond to us riding some.”

“Alright. Let’s go,” Jim replied as he released the front brake and snapped the reins.

Chapter 36

The afternoon went by quick enough. Jim decided that this part of Praha was a pretty, but savage looking land with steep hills, cliffs, boulders, and lots of trees. Thankfully, the dirt road they were using was well traveled without a lot of ruts. Jim found himself thinking that same savage attractiveness could be used to describe his borrowed or rented guards.

Layla, Jade, and Sadie all shared a similar look. The three were taller than most at 6’2” or perhaps taller, with long dark hair, and green eyes. All three shared dark skin, full lips, and slightly wide noses. Jim noticed slightly pointed ears and slightly long sharp canine teeth too. The trio were all level 7 as well. Jim suspected the three were part orc and wondered if they were related as well. He wasn’t brave enough to ask since he didn’t want to offend them but was brave enough to flirt with all three, often with two at a time as they started to ride and drive his wagon. Flirting like that was something he never would have done on earth. He chalked it up to the charisma and wisdom boosts. Truthfully, it was probably just the charisma. Wisdom should tell him not to do so.

While the guards took turns at the wagon, Jim had spent some time stretching his legs by walking and playing with Kayja, who had grown tired of riding quickly enough. After the aki wolf and Jim grew tired of playing, Kayja would explore the woods and terrain surrounding the road. She started to bring back rabbits and other small animals. Sadie or Jade would skin the rabbits and ground squirrels while Layla drove the wagon and Jim prepared more potato chips. The lizards and mice were ignored.

When Michael called a stop for the day a half hour before dusk, Jim noticed that Kajya had reached level 3. He assumed that was due to the hunting she had done. Jim’s wagon was forced a little bit away from the others, but within the larger camp and closer to the creek they stopped nearby. Jim assumed it was a slight or that he was being used as potential bait. Either way, he was glad as it meant he didn’t have to use the water trough to water his mules. When he was invited to dine with Michael, he declined stating he had chips and popcorn that were cooking.

*

Jim updated his inventory as Sadie roasted a rabbit on a spit for supper. He had a pot of rice on as well.

{20 gold 30 silvers 10 coppers}

He had 50 more bags each of chips and popcorn. He figured he would do the other 100 bags tomorrow or the next day. Jim considered adding the 20 pounds of chicken he had bought but decided not to as he would give some to Kayja and eat the rest himself. Besides, it was only 20 coppers. One of the other guards bought the poison daggers for 1 gold. Jim knew he could have gotten more since the guard could not Haggle or Barter at all, but his life might depend on the guard’s actions at some point, so Jim took the 1 gold.

“Is your rice done? I ask because we are hungry and the rabbit is done,” Jade told him after knocking on the wagon’s porch. Jim put away his notebook and checked the rice.

“Yeah, it’s done,” Jim informed the guard. Jim took out four plates and scooped a serving of rice onto them. He handed them off to Jade, who gave two of them to Sadie and Layla. Jim exited the wagon. He called back into the wagon, “Come on Kayja, it’s time to eat.”

*

“Jim turned down my dinner invitation to make more chips and popcorn, yet you say he is eating with the guards?”

“Yes sir,” Carter replied.

“I suppose he could have been telling the truth.”

“The riders reported that they saw him bagging things through the wagon’s door when they rode past a little while ago and then writing at a table.”

“I won’t take offense this time. I do not blame him for wanting to have more product to sell,” Michael replied. “Go and invite him to join me tomorrow night for dinner.”

“Yes sir,” Carter said and turned to carry out his orders.

*

Jim went to the creek to wash his dishes. Sadie and Kayja went with him. Jim had noticed a lot of a particular weed growing to the right of the creek when he watered the mules. He idly wondered if it was like some of the weeds that were taking over the US.

“There you are,” Carter stated as he found Jim at the creek washing the dishes.

“Carter, what can I do for you?”

“Mr Barrett would like to invite you to dinner tomorrow night,” the guard extended his boss’ invitation. Jim saw the look on Sadie’s face was one of surprise and perhaps worry.

“I accept.”

“I’ll inform the boss,” Carter stated and turned to go. He stepped into the weeds. He muttered, “Blasted weeds,” as he walked off.

“You looked a little worried Sadie.”

“I thought you would turn him down again.”

“Ah. I can see that,” Jim replied as he finished washing the dishes and returned them to his inventory. He used Inspect on the weeds. The plants were peppermint and not weeds. Jim smiled. “Those aren’t weeds.”

“They’re not?”, Sadie asked and held the lantern she had closer to the plants.

“No. Those are peppermint plants.”

“It’s a weed Jim.”

“Nope. We can use those to make tea and oil. The oil is supposed to be used to rub on sore muscles,” Jim informed the guard. Jim spent the next hour plucking leaves and pulling up a few plants. He figured he had a bushel or close to it of leaves when he was done.

They returned to the wagon and Jim checked Al and Peggy one last time for the night. He set Kayja on the porch a few minutes later and climbed up after her. Letting the wolf into the wagon, he noticed the three guards gazing at his bed.

“You can join me if you like.”

“Jim, we’re half orcs. Any one of us would break you,” Jade retorted.

“Maybe, but what a way to go.”

“You’re an idiot,” she retorted and turned to walk off.

“Goodnight, Jade.”

“Goodnight, Jim.”

Chapter 37

The next morning passed without incident other than the other walkers throwing jealous looks at Layla, Sadie, and Jade as they switched between walking and riding. Breakfast had been eggs, ham, rice, and a thin ham gravy Jim had made by adding water to the ham bits left in the pan after he took up the ham. Jim lamented the lack of biscuits once more as they ate.

The caravan stopped at midmorning for a short break and again at noon for lunch. Stormgion had lettuce, but nobody had brought any. Jim made bacon and tomato sandwiches for lunch. He served them along with some leftover chips he didn’t have bags for. As they were getting ready to start out again, a herd of something called Iron Elk emerged from the woods. Most of the elk were the size of horses. The smallest of the beasts was a level 4 fawn and the largest was a level 15 buck the size of a moose.

“Why are they called Iron Elk?” Jim asked.

“Their hides are hard to penetrate and make excellent leather armor,” Sadie answered. Several of the guards readied their bows. “Too bad I don’t have a bow.”

“I have one I can loan you,” Jim replied.

“She doesn’t have any archery skills either,” Jade laughed.

“Neither do you.”

“Don’t fight,” Layla warned. “We’re close in fighters or use spears for distance weapons.”

“Where’s Kayja?” Sadie asked after looking around and not seeing the wolf. The guards with bows fired at the elk. Jim used the blood bond to feel for his wolf.

“She’s out there,” Jim pointed toward the elk.

“That’s not good.”

“Kayja is fine for the moment,” Jim replied. The herd turned and ran into the woods. A level 5 smaller stag split off in confusion. It started to slip as a reddish shape jumped into the elk and knocked it down. A moment later the aki wolf went for the throat growling. The stag bleated in terror and soon fell silent.

“Sweet gods!” Jade exclaimed. “She just took down a small stag.”

Layla led them to the fallen elk. Carter and a few other guards joined them.

“I knew aki wolves were strong, but I didn’t think one could take down an iron elk alone,” Carter said in wonder. Kayja looked up at the gathered guards and her human with a bloody muzzle.

“You need a bath,” Jim told the wolf to the amusement of the others. Inspect showed the kill had raised Kayja to level 4. “So, are these things good eating?”

“Yeah, they are,” Carter answered.

“Are the antlers worth anything?”

“Yeah.”

“Like what?”

“Depends on who you sell them to,” another guard replied. “Nobles and the wealthy love to have daggers and knifes made with the antlers used as handles.”

“I want the hide, antlers, and a few choice cuts of the meat. I’ll give the rest to the rest of the caravan,” Jim offered. “Make sure Michael gets what choice cuts he would like as long as it doesn’t conflict with what I want.”

“I accept on behalf of the caravan,” Carter replied. He turned to two other guards. “Give me a hand skinning and cleaning this will you?”

“Come Jim, let’s not be in their way,” Jade urged. Jim thought about the blood, guts, and smell that was sure to come.

“Right. Lead the way,” Jim agreed. “Come on Kayja, let’s get you cleaned up.”

*

“Carter, this is excellent work,” Layla praised her fellow guard with a slight blush on her cheeks as she examined the iron elk skin.

“Indeed,” Sadie agreed while Jade nodded her head in agreement and Jim Inspected the parts.

{Iron Elk Hide Level 5 Value 4 Gold}

{Iron Elk Antler *2 Level 5 Value 50 Silvers}

“My father was a tanner and I picked up some skills before I decided to become a guard,” Carter informed them. “Even though that was a small elk, he still weighed 400 pounds. We’ll be eating good for a couple of days at least.”

The guard had come to Jim’s wagon to bring him some meat, the skin, and antlers. The antlers were more horns than antlers and had not begun to grow points due to the youth of the elk. Jim placed the parts into his ring.

“Thanks for bringing them back here.”

“It’s no problem. Mr Barrett wants to buy the antlers and hide from you. He offers 1 gold and 50 silvers.”

“I’m afraid I’ll have to decline,” Jim said while rubbing Kayja. “I’ve already given him choice cuts of the meat, which I have no doubt I could have sold. Plus, that stag was at least 6 ft. The only parts of the hide missing are the head and legs. That is a lot of material left. I couldn’t part with it and the antlers for less than 10 gold.”

The guards looked stunned. Carter slowly said, “I’ll pass that message along to Mr Barrett.

“Oh, and tell him I’ll see him at dinner,” Jim called to Carter’s back as the guard walked to towards the front of the caravan.

“Jim, are you nuts?” Jade asked.

“I don’t think so. Why?”

“If he wants the hide and antlers, then he can pay a fair price for it and not insult me with an offer not even worth half of what the parts are valued at.”

“What do you mean?”

“Merchants have an Inspect skill that shows the value of things. The antlers are worth 50 silvers each. The hide is worth 4 gold,” Jim explained.

“Ok. But why did you tell Carter you wouldn’t sell them for less than twice what they are worth?”

“He’s a merchant,” Sadie snorted with some disdain.

“While that’s true, I think I’ve been mostly fair in my dealings. Would most merchants treat you three like I have or have given away the elk meat like I did? Would other merchants have turned away free slaves not once, but twice?”

“You what?” Layla and Jade asked at the same time.

“I’m sorry Jim. That was not fair of me,” Sadie replied with sorrow in her voice. “You have treated us nicer than any other merchant has. Mr Barrett generally treats us well but makes sure we know he is the boss and we the employee. He won’t let us ride his wagons, cook, or eat with us.”

“The others are starting to move,” Jim observed. “Mount up and I’ll sit inside and tell you how and why I’ve refused slaves.”

*

“Jim, while I appreciate the choice cuts of elk meat, I was disappointed that you turned down my offer for the hide and antlers,” Michael told Jim after they finished supper.

“You and I both know that the hide and antlers are worth considerably more than you offered,” Jim pointed out while reaching down to rub Kayja. Michael had grown nervous when the aki wolf joined them and laid beside Jim as they ate.

“True. But 10 gold?”

“I felt like making a point,” Jim smiled. “Besides, depending on the smith and armor the hide is used to make, it’ll make a lot more than that in return.”

“That’s a fair point,” Michael agreed. “Stag handle daggers and knives are all the rage amongst the nobility. Those antlers will make nice handles and command a good price as a finished product.”

“If you want them, make me a fair offer.”

“Five gold for all three.”

“Make it 9 and I’ll give you 2 bottles of sake.”

“How did you know I finished my bottle and wanted more?”

“I didn’t. But I know you like the taste. I’ll even make one of the bottles the apple flavored sake I’m working on. It’ll be a few more days before it is ready though.”

“Five and a half gold for the parts and sake.”

“Eight and a half.”

“I’ll go six.”

“Eight.”

“How much sake do you have currently?”

“Seven bottles.”

“Give me five bottles and I’ll go seven gold, but not a copper higher.”

“We have a deal,” Jim agreed. The merchants shook hands and exchanged money for merchandise. Jim stood shortly after. “Goodnight, Michael. I’m going to bed.”

“Goodnight, Jim,” Michael replied and watched Jim head to his wagon.

“He will be a problem eventually,” a shadow stated from behind Michael. “Should I dispatch him?”

“No. Not yet Samir. Father and I are interested in seeing if Mr Merchant becomes a competitor or remains a mere entertaining traveling merchant with good ideas. If he becomes an issue, your talents will be called upon.”

Chapter 38

Jim checked his stats just before the sun rose. Today, the caravan would start the last leg of the journey to Raven’s Rest. Inspect had gone up a level. Too bad he hadn’t leveled again. Looking at his money, he thought he would need about another 10000 gold before he could retire. Another 1000 might let Jim build or buy a shop and house along with servants/employees, merchandise, and a nice nest egg. Then again, maybe he was way off base considering the wagon hadn’t cost anywhere near that to build. That was for the future and didn’t matter now.

{

Jim Merchant

Level: 3

Class: Merchant

Health: 140

Stamina: 140

Strength(6)

Endurance(6)

Dexterity(7)

Charisma(12)

Intelligence(10)

Wisdom(7)

Luck(10)

Skills: Inspect(7)

Bartering(1)

Harvesting(2)

Invention(3)

Strategy(1)

Tactics(1)

Gold:27

Silver:30

Copper:10

}

Jim updated his inventory as well. Jim wasn’t sure what to charge for the peppermint. Since people considered it a weed, it didn’t have a value either.

Jim pulled out a peppermint leaf and plopped it into his mouth. He loved the taste, but the leaves lost the flavor quickly. It just wasn’t the same as gum, but it would do. And it gave him the freshest breath of anyone he had met yet.

“I would love to have biscuits or even better, frybread,” Jim muttered as he started wondering what he wanted for breakfast. He looked at Kayja. “I need flour and you need to get out, don’t you?”

Jim got up and let Kayja out after putting away his notebook. He spotted Layla sitting beside a campfire. “Morning Layla.”

“Morning Jim. What’s for breakfast?”

“I was just thinking about that. Does anyone here have any flour?”

“Like for baking?”

“Yeah.”

“Mr Barrett should have some he is going to sell in Raven’s Rest.”

“Figures. If he does, I might have another surprise.”

“Want me to go with you?”

“Nah,” Jim answered. “Kayja is back. She’ll come with me.”

“Alright.”

*

“Morning Michael.”

“Good morning, Jim. What can I do for you?” Michael asked. “I see you have your wolf with you.”

“I was wondering if you had some flour for sale?” Jim asked. “And yeah, she goes with me everywhere.”

“I do,” Michael replied after a moment of thought. “I have 100 pounds and can part with up to 25 pounds. The rest is already spoken for.”

“How much a pound?”

“Hmmm. Are you planning on baking a cake?”

“No. Just biscuits.”

“You actually cook?”

“Yes. It’s a hobby.”

“Alright. 20 Coppers a pound.”

“Really Michael?”

“Yes.”

“Is this pay back for last night?”

“Yes,” Michael answered with a grin. Jim glared at the other merchant. “Oh, don’t look that way. Make it 10 coppers a pound.”

“I still feel like you’re taking advantage of me.”

“I am.”

“At least you admit it. Here is a silver,” Jim replied and handed over the coin. Michael went to his wagon and returned with a guard carrying 10 bags of flour. Jim put them into his ring. “Thanks. When are we leaving?”

“An hour.”

“Alright. I’ll be ready,” Jim replied and headed back to his wagon. Kayja followed Jim after huffing at Michael.

*

“Did you get any flour?” Layla asked. Jade and Sadie were sitting with her.

“Yep,” Jim answered as he picked up Kayja and set her on the porch. “He over charged too.”

“Not surprised after your counteroffer for the hide and antlers,” Sadie said.

“Yeah, he got me back a little.”

“Did he buy them and for how much?” Jade inquired.

“He did for 7 gold and 5 bottles of sake.”

“Nice payday.”

“Indeed,” Sadie agreed.

“That’s nice and all, but what’s for breakfast?” Jade asked.

“I really need cheese and milk,” Jim muttered.

“Why?”

“I could make some really good food if I did,” Jim answered. “But we’ll do frybread, bacon, and eggs today.”

“Is frybread bread that is fried?” Layla asked.

“Yep. It’s fried into thin circles.

“Sounds good,” Sadie stated.

“Hop to it Jim!” Jade ordered. “You have three hungry half orc sisters demanding food. Don’t make us wait too long!”

“I wondered if you three were sisters. You look similar enough.”

“Move Jim!”

“Yes ma’am.”

*

“How much longer until we get to Raven’s Rest,” Jim asked.

“Two hours, but it’ll take at least an hour to replace the axle that broke on the number 3 wagon,” Jade answered from the passenger seat. “You might as well set your brakes. We’re going to be here for a while.”

“The wagon wasn’t enchanted to be sturdier or resist damage?”

“No. Mr Barrett does not believe in doing so. It’s cheaper to just buy and carry a few replacement axles,” Jade shrugged. “You don’t have any replacements. Is the wagon enchanted?”

“No. The wagon is new, so it better not break with this light a load. And I was planning on having it enchanted at Raven’s Rest. There were no enchanters at Catfish Landing,” Jim answered as he set the front brake.

“Mr Barrett expects it to take an hour at least to replace the axle,” Layla told them as she walked up to Jim’s wagon from the front of the caravan.

“Now’s the time for something to happen,” Sadie quipped.

“That’s nothing to joke about,” Jim replied. The guard shrugged as Kajya ran out of the tall grass on the left of the trail. She jumped onto the porch and ran inside the wagon. Jim and the guards looked on in amazement. “I didn’t think she could jump that high.”

“Me either,” the women said at the same time. Kajya stuck her head out of the wagon and growled at a boulder sitting in the middle of the grass.

“She’s afraid,” Jim informed the others. The aki wolf was shaking and her hackles were up. The guards exchanged looks and unsheathed their weapons. The jackstocks picked up on the fear and started to pull against the brake and their harnesses. Jim jumped off the wagon and threw a bolt of fabric over each mule’s head. He gave them an apple each and whispered to them until they calmed. Another guard noticed what was happening and ran forward.

“We should be getting company from a few more guards in a moment,” Jade told them.

“That was quick thinking Jim,” Sadie praised the merchant. “Too bad you aren’t big or a fighter.”

“Why is that?”

“I would see if I could break you instead of knowing that you wouldn’t survive the experience,” she answered to laughter from her sisters and Jim. Kayja’s growling became more insistent, and the boulder moved.

“What’s a Stone Troll?” Jim asked after Inspecting the boulder.

“It’s level 15 too,” Layla added.

“That Jim, is our death,” Sadie quipped as the troll stood to its full height of 9 ft.

“Stone trolls are hard as rock and can only be defeated with magic or the right enchanted weapons,” Jade informed Jim.

“I’m guessing we don’t have either of those,” Jim replied.

“Nope. There hasn’t been a troll here in years,” Jade said. “This one must have come down from the mountains looking for food.”

The troll yawned, stretched, and then its eyes locked onto the convoy. “Hmmm, me like horses. Good eating.”

“They’re intelligent?”

“Not really, but they can talk,” Layla answered Jim’s question. A moment later Barnett, the mounted guards, and first two wagons took off and left the rest of the caravan.

“We’re dead meat,” Sadie said.

“Should we run?”

“No use. It may look like a moving boulder, but stone trolls are fast enough to chase down people on foot,” Jade told Jim as he struggled with the mules. She grabbed the reins to help him. The troll sniffed the air and picked up a club from the ground. The club was a small trunk.

“Mules and a wolf too. Puny people give all animals and Skarn let people go,” the troll told Jim and remaining guards while waving a tree trunk it was using as a club.

“Fine by me!” one of the guards beside wagon 3 shouted and ran after Barrett. Two others followed him. Carter tried calling them back, but the men did not listen. The troll started toward Jim’s wagon since it was the closest.

“Me eat mules first.”

“No!” Jim shouted.

Chapter 39

“Jim, are you nuts?” Layla hissed at him.

Jim paid her no mind and kept his eyes on the troll. “I need my mules to pull my wagon and you cannot have them.”

“What you say?” Skarn asked. Jim repeated what he said to the troll louder. “Me break wagon and you no need mules!”

“No! I need my wagon too.”

“Skarn break you then!” Skarn retorted and stepped to the edge of the trail. Kayja disappeared into the wagon.

“No! If you let all of us leave with our animals, I’ll give you meat.”

“What kind of meat?”

“Fish.”

“Me not have fish before. You give one for Skarn to try or Skarn break your head,” the troll replied and brandished the tree trunk over their heads. The troll held a hand open for the fish.

“Ok,” Jim agreed. He left Jade with the mules and walked to the troll. Jim pulled a single trout from his ring and dropped it into the hand. He then stepped back two steps.

“Sort of small.” Skarn brought the fish up to its face and sniffed it. The trout then disappeared into the troll’s mouth. A moment later, Skarn spoke again. “Good! You give all fish to Skarn.”

“Will you let us go, if I do?”

“Hmmm. Yes,” Skarn agreed after thinking it over.

“Where do you want the fish at?” Jim asked.

“In cave,” Skarn pointed down the hill. Jim spotted the cave about 200 ft from the trail. “Skarn kill bear and take cave two suns ago.”

“Two suns?” Sadie asked.

“Maybe it means two days ago,” Layla replied.

“Oh. Yeah, I get it,” Sadie said. Jim suddenly had an idea.

“Skarn?”

“What?”

“Do you want ham?”

“Don’t know. Never ate before.”

“I’ll give you one to try. If you like it, I will give more if you help men pick up our broke wagon,” Jim slowly informed the troll. The troll seemed to be thinking about it.

“Jim what are you doing?” Carter asked.

“Using available resources so we can get out of here.”

“Ok. You give ham. Me try.”

“Alright,” Jim agreed. He gave the troll a whole ham. It disappeared down the troll’s gullet as quickly as the fish had.

“Hmmm! Skarn like. You give more.”

“Remember what I said. I’ll give you all I have if you pick up the wagon so men can fix.”

“Ok. Show wagon you want Skarn to pick up.”

“Carter?”

“I’ll show it.”

“Follow Carter,” Jim instructed the troll.

“Right this way, Skarn.”

“Ok,” the troll replied and followed the guard to the amazement of everyone. Once they and the other male guards were out of sight, Jim’s legs gave out and he sat on the trail.

“Jim, are you ok?”

“No. I’ve never been so scared in my life.”

“You had to ruin it,” Sadie told him as Kayja emerged from the wagon and went to Jim. He pulled his wolf to him and hugged her while giving the guard a questioning look. “If you had kept your mouth shut, I would have broken you in front of everyone.”

“I…I feel like I’m already broke,” Jim replied to laughter from the half orc guards.

*

The wagon was repaired 30 minutes later. Jim, Jade, and Layla followed Skarn to its cave. Kayja had started to follow, but Jim sent her back to the wagon. He wanted the wolf and his mules to live if he was killed… again. Jim heard trampling in the woods near the cave.

“Bears not stupid. They run from Skarn after me kill 3,” the troll announced.

“What kind of bears?” Jade asked.

“Don’t know. They be big and were in cave.”

“Kodiak cave bears?” Layla guessed.

“Probably,” her sister agreed as they arrived at the cave.

“Follow and give meat,” Skarn instructed. The troll did not lead them far into the cave, so they could see without needing extra light. The floor of the cave was littered with bones, 3 dead Kodiak cave bears, weapons, and armor.

“Holy…”

“Those bears were all level 10,” Layla announced.

“Most of the gear on the floor is level 5 or higher,” Jade stated.

“Skarn, might I trade for the bears and human stuff?” Jim asked the troll.

“Was going to eat bears,” Skarn replied after a moment.

“I’ll give more meat and other food if you will trade.”

“What kind of food?”

“Vegetables.”

“Not meat?”

“No, but very good.”

“Give Skarn taste,” the troll ordered and held out a hand. Jim gave Skarn one each of the vegetables he had as well as a handful of rice, a strip of bacon, and a little bison meat. The troll liked them all. “Ok. You give all food, except little white thing, and we trade.”

“No rice?” Jim asked and showed the troll a grain of rice.

“No. Me no like.”

“Ok. I’ll gladly take that trade,” Jim agreed. He looted the corpses and they disappeared as had happened in the forest to the bandits and first bear Jim had looted.

“We didn’t know you could do magic,” Layla said.

“I can’t. That is a skill.”

“Oh. I wish I had it.”

“Can you teach it?” Jade asked.

“Don’t know. I’ve never tried. We can talk about it on the way to Raven’s Rest,” Jim replied. The two guards agreed.

“Hahaha. Cave clean now,” Skarn bellowed.

“Does that make you happy?”

“Yes.”

“Where do you want the food?”

“In back of cave,” Skarn answered. “Follow.”

Jim and his guards followed the troll about 20 feet into the cave after lighting two lanterns. Jim started putting the baskets of food in the open area Skarn had led them to.

“There’s a chest at the back wall,” Jade pointed out.

“Skarn no like woody box. Will trade though. Have more food?”

“No. I don’t have more food I can trade. How about fabric?”

“Fabric?”

“Cloth used for sheets, clothes, and such.”

“Show,” Skarn ordered. Jim did. “Skarn like. Pretty color.”

“Yes, it is,” Layla agreed.

“Skarn take all fabric. Man take 1 of each food back in trade plus woody box.”

“Can Skarn open box?” Jim asked after noticing a large padlock on it.

“Ok,” the troll replied and pulled the top off the chest. Inside were several bags of coin. Layla’s, Jade’s, and Jim’s eyes widened in shock.

“Thanks. One basket of food or just one piece of food?”

“Baskets,” Skarn replied while gently kicking a bushel of corn. Jim gathered up the chest and baskets of food before the troll could change its mind. He then stacked all the bolts of fabric where the chest had been.

“Hahaha. Many colors. Skarn very happy now.”

“So are we,” Jim replied.

“Good. Now get out. Skarn wants to sleep in sun more and needs to put rock in cave to keep animals out of food.”

“Of course. Other people might be willing to trade with Skarn if Skarn asks before approaching them,” Jim told the troll.

“Will think about,” Skarn replied and led them out of the cave. A few minutes later a large boulder blocked the cave entrance and Skarn led them back to the trail.

“Everybody on a wagon,” Carter told the guards when Jim and the others returned. “Everything ok?”

“Oh yeah,” Jim answered with a smile. “Skarn may want to trade in the future. We need to let others know. The troll just wants food and will probably keep this area clear of other threats.”

“Good point,” Layla said. “Let’s get out of here.

*

“How much money was in that chest?” Jade asked.

“What chest? What money? Sadie asked from the driver’s seat.

“I’m counting,” Jim said. Layla told her sister what they found in the cave.

“Are you going to split that with us?” Sadie asked.

“Yeah. Now let me finish counting.”

“You got it boss,” Jade replied with a grin.

*

Jim updated his inventory after he finished counting and sorting the weapons and armor two hours later. The Bear hides were worth 7 gold each which was a little more than the other had been. The claws were worth the same as were the fangs. Jim had offered the weapons to the guards, but they refused as their orcish made weapons and armor were higher quality.

The chest had contained 23 gold, 25 silvers, and 63 coppers. The troll had been an amazing windfall for Jim. He decided to bring Skarn more food when he passed through the area again. Jim leveled up once more and so did Bartering, which pleased Jim.

{

Jim Merchant

Level: 4

Class: Merchant

Health: 140

Stamina: 140

Strength(6)

Endurance(6)

Dexterity(7)

Charisma(12)

Intelligence(10)

Wisdom(7)

Luck(10)

Skills: Inspect(7)

Bartering(2)

Harvesting(2)

Invention(3)

Strategy(1)

Tactics(1)

Gold:40

Silver:30

Copper:40

}

He gave 10 gold, 25 silvers, and 33 coppers to the guards. Jim knew he didn’t have to give them anything, but he enjoyed their company and they had stuck with him instead of running off when Skarn had started for Al and Peggy. Plus, Jim wanted them to get free of Michael if they could and he figured the extra coin would help them. Perhaps they could buy out their contracts if they wanted to.

“Jim, you didn’t have to give us that much.”

“I know Layla. But you three have been more than worth it to me. Besides, when your contract with Michael ends or if you can buy it out, and you’re looking for work, I would love to hire the three of you.”

“Are you serious?” Jade asked.

“Yep.”

“Thanks Jim. We’ll keep that in mind,” Layla stated. The wagon slowed and came to a stop.

“We’re here. Well, in line at the gate to enter Raven’s Rest,” Sadie announced.

Chapter 40

Jim’s wagon attracted the attention of the town guards. Unlike at Swift River, the guard that went inside his wagon was a gruff male dwarf named Bill. Bill became very interested when he found Jim’s fermenting sake. After a brief discussion that held up the line entering the city even more than it had already, Bill showed Jim his town map in exchange for a taste of sake. This allowed Jim to update his system map. A couple minutes later, Jim sold the unopened bottle he had left for 1 silver to the guard.

After the inspection was done, Jim paid the 50-copper fee needed for traveling merchants to setup and sell in Raven’s Rest. Bill gave Jim a one month selling license in return for the fee. Unlike the villages, Raven’s Rest had a market square where Jim was instructed that he could set up. He was assured there was enough space for his wagon and that he could leave it there if he sold out of it. A livery where he could stable his mules was located just off the market square. Bill also assured Jim that nobody would mess with his wagon as guards were in the square 24 hours a day. Jim didn’t believe that people wouldn’t mess with the wagon. Sadie drove the wagon into the town and headed toward the square.

Most of the merchants had setup away from the livery due to the smell, so the only space left that was large enough for Jim’s wagon was right beside the livery. If Jim was still getting used to his enhanced senses, he would have demanded they find another place to park the wagon for the night and try to find a better spot in the morning, but since he was accustomed to his senses, he didn’t mind being by the livery. Jim wondered what had happened to his sense of smell since the livery didn’t smell that bad to him.

As Sadie parked the wagon, a stableboy came out and told them it cost 10 coppers per day per animal to stable them. Jim led the jackstocks into the stable as the boy gazed at the size of the mules in wonder and Jim didn’t think the lad could handle them. Jim paid the owner for two weeks and was assured the mules would be well taken care of. Jim advised he would check on them daily since he needed them to pull the wagon and make a living. Jim didn’t want to admit he didn’t trust them.

“There’s no sign of Carter, Mr Barrett, or anyone else from the caravan,” Jade informed the others. “What should we do?”

“We were ordered to stick with Jim and his wagon until relieved,” Sadie said. “I say we stay until they come for us.”

“I agree,” Layla replied. “I don’t want it ever said we half-assed a job.”

“Are you going to setup to sell?” Jade asked Jim.

“Not today. I want to find an enchanter or locksmith to put a lock on the wagon. Then, I want a bath and a good meal I don’t cook.”

“I’ll agree to the bath and meal,” Sadie told Jim with a wink.

“Flirting with me now?”

“You stood up to a troll and I like that,” she shrugged. “I would still break you though.”

“Promises, promises.”

“In your dreams.”

“Very possibly.”

“You two need to stop,” Layla interrupted the playful banter. “Jim, I urge you to take one of us and find the smith or enchanter now. That way if Michael sends someone to fetch us, we can claim you’re not here so we can’t be relieved.”

“And put a posting for guards of your own,” Jade added. “A lot of merchants pay someone to sleep in their wagons while in town, unless they are enchanted against theft.”

“Those things are open air or covered with tarps,” Jim pointed out.

“That’s why they pay others to sleep in them,” Sadie replied. “The merchants want a nice comfortable bed at an inn.”

“I would sleep here myself with Kayja,” Jim said. He checked his map and saw that the temple was marked and located at the center of town next to the government buildings. He was surprised there was government buildings. It was mostly a guards’ barracks and office, a prison, tax office, and mayor’s office. The map showed some enclosed compounds in the center of town too, but not what they were. “Alright, who wants to go with me?”

“I will. They got to go with you to the troll’s cave,” Sadie replied. Her sisters gave their agreement.

“Alright Kayja. Guard the wagon,” Jim told his pup with a few affectionate pats. Jim wasn’t sure when he had started to consider the wolf a pup or dog, but it felt right. Sadie led Jim east toward the crafter’s streets.

*

“Did you come with me because you wanted to get me in the bath?” Jim asked with a grin.

“No,” Sadie replied with a matching grin.

“Can’t blame a guy for trying.”

“Sure, I can,” Sadie disagreed. “The enchanters are down this street.”

“Do you know any of them?”

“No. I don’t even know the one Barrett employs. Let’s just ask a few people and guards,” Sadie suggested. Jim nodded in agreement. The pair asked around and were told that two enchanters could do what he wanted. Enoch was the first. Adeline was the second but considered the better of the two. Jim decided to try her first.

*

“Adeline’s Enchanting Services,” Jim read the sign aloud. “Thankfully, it is short, sweet, and to the point.”

“Good point. Shall we?”

“Ladies first,” Jim answered and held the door for the guard. Sadie rolled her eyes but entered first as a bell over the door chimed.

“I’m the one that is supposed to be protecting you, remember?”

“Yeah. I couldn’t see into the shop, so felt you should enter first.”

“Nice try. Any threat would have been outside and not in the shop.”

“Welcome to Mistress Adeline’s Enchanting Services,” a young man greeted them. His eyes lost some of their friendliness. “My name is Kellen. How may I assist you?”

“Coming to the inn with me,” Sadie muttered.

“I’m sorry. What was that?” Kellen asked. Jim subtly jabbed Sadie in the ribs.

“My client,” Sadie said while rubbing her ribs, “is looking to have some enchanting done to his wagon.”

“We normally do not work on wagons.”

“Mr Merchant, is a traveling salesman, and the wagon is his shop and home on the road.”

“Oh. I apologize. I thought you meant a farm wagon or the sort. Your dress isn’t the best,” Kellen replied. Jim was starting to be put off by the attitude. “We could help with that for the right price.”

“Never mind. I can tell I would not be happy with your mistress’ work no matter how good it is. We’ll try one of the other enchanters,” Jim said suddenly. He turned to leave. “Sadie, if you will lead the way to Enoch’s.”

Kellen snorted as they walked out.

“What was that about?” Sadie asked.

“Didn’t like his attitude. He looked down on us from the moment we walked in. I won’t spend money with people like that.”

“Ok. Enoch’s is two doors down on the left,” Sadie pointed to the sign.

*

“Enoch’s Enchanting,” Sadie read this sign. “Even simpler”

“Yeah. Hopefully, they aren’t as stuck up.”

Sadie snorted and opened the door. She smiled. “After you.”

“Thanks,” Jim replied with a smile of his own.

“Good afternoon. My name is Julia. What can we do for you?”

“My name is Jim Merchant. This is Sadie. I’m looking to have some enchanting done to my wagon.”

“What kind of enchanting?”

“I want a magical lock so nobody can enter without my permission. I also want it enchanted to take more damage and abuse as well as not be flammable to start,” Jim answered. Julia’s eyes widened.

“Just a minute,” she replied and walked to a doorway covered by a curtain. She opened it a bit and yelled through it,” Dad! Come up here.”

“Enoch is your father?” Sadie asked.

“Yes,” Julia answered with a blush. “I shouldn’t have yelled like that.”

“Don’t worry about it. We’re plain folk,” Jim replied before turning his attention to some enchanted items on the shelves.

“We’ve yelled at each other a lot on the trip from Swift River,” Sadie added. Julia laughed. Enoch walked into the shopfront. He took in Sadie and Jim.

“How can I help you?” Enoch asked. Jim turned his attention to the enchanter and his daughter as Julia explained what Jim had told her. “I can do that Mr Merchant, but it will be expensive.”

“Can you do it this afternoon? The wagon is in the market square beside the livery. The wagon is 10ft long, and at least 6 wide and tall. And please call me Jim.”

“The lock this afternoon. The rest will take at least a day.”

“How much would you charge?”

“20 gold for those enchantments. 5 for just the lock.”

“Would you accept a trade of goods for at least part of the work?”

“Depends on the goods. What do you have in mind?”

“I have some weapons, both enchanted and not, metal ingots including 18 mithril ingots, Kodiak bear claws, fangs, and hides, and food for the most part.”

“You have mithril?”

“Yeah. Why?”

“Mithril is used to draw the runes for enchanting. Once it is added to an engraved rune, it doesn’t come off, and it channels the magic,” Enoch answered. “How many ingots do you have?”

“18.”

“How much do you want for them?”

“50 silvers each,” Jim answered. Julia’s eyes widened in shock again. Jim wasn’t sure if that was good or bad until she started to speak.

“I’ll take all 18 in trade. That will leave you owing 11 gold.”

“Dad, we could use the fangs and claws too. Lord Peyton wants that magic armor necklace.”

“How much for those and how many do you have?”

“The bears were level 10,” Sadie chimed in.

“I have 10 claws and six fangs, plus 3 hides.”

“May I see them?”

“Sure,” Jim answered. He pulled the requested parts from storage. Enoch and his daughter looked them over.

“This is quality parts. How much for all of them?”

“I’ll give you a deal, 13 gold for all of the bear parts. 9 for the mithril, so altogether, 22 gold,” Jim answered with a smile.

“That would leave me owing you.”

“Yeah, it would.” Jim’s smile got bigger.

“I saw you looking at one of the water skins,” Julie said.

“I was,” Jim admitted. “What are they enchanted to do?”

“Keep the water cold, purify it, and never need filling,” the enchanter’s daughter answered. Sadie perked up at the description. “Those are 5 gold each.”

“Will you do the enchanting and one waterskin as an even trade for my items?” Jim asked.

Enoch thought it over. “Yes.”

“Excellent,” Jim replied. Julia handed Jim a waterskin and showed him how to activate the rune. She took Jim’s bear parts into the back while her father wrote up a bill of sale. He put the mithril into his storage ring when he was done.

“Would you bring three more of those skins to the wagon? Sadie asked. “I want one and I know my sisters will too.”

“And could she get a deal on that?”

“You’re pushing it, Jim.”

“Perhaps, but I plan on asking you to do more enchanting work on the inside of the wagon.”

“Oh?”

“Indeed. It’ll be easier to show and explain to you the things I would like than just explain.”

“Very well. I’m intrigued. I’ll go 12 gold for three waterskins,” Enoch replied. Jim looked to Sadie.

“I’ll take that deal,” she said shaking Enoch’s hand.

“Let me grab my tools and we’ll go to the wagon.

“Alright,” Jim replied. Enoch walked into the back and returned a moment later with his daughter.

“Let’s go Julia. I think I’ll need your help on this job.”

“Ok dad. Lead the way Mr Merchant.”

“I’ll lead the way,” Sadie corrected. “It’s my job.”

Chapter 41

“Oh! Fluffy towels!” Sadie gushed as she felt a towel at a stand of a woman packing up for the day. Julia stopped and felt the towel too. This caused Jim and Enoch to stop as well.

“You’re right,” she agreed with the guard. Enoch looked amused while Jim looked interested. “The washcloths are as well.”

“How much are your wares?” Sadie asked while Jim checked out the towel and washcloth.

“25 coppers per towel and 15 per washcloth,” the merchant answered.

“Do you have blankets too?” Jim asked. The towels and washcloths were very well made.”

“I do. They are 1 silver each.”

“Are you willing to give discounts for buying several of each?”

“Perhaps. How many are you looking to buy?”

“I see you are packing up for the day. Would you be willing to stay a while longer? I need to get Mr Enoch to my wagon so he can start enchanting it but would love to talk to you about purchasing several of your items.”

“I would like to buy some too. My sisters might as well,” Sadie added.

“I would too,” Julia chimed in while looking at Enoch, “if dad allows.”

“I have no objections. The towel is quality work.”

“I will wait an hour more,” the merchant told them. Sadie and Julia agreed to return in a few minutes. Jim promised to come back as quickly as possible.

*

“This wagon is different,” Enoch proclaimed when they reached Jim’s wagon. His daughter agreed.

“Just wait until you see the inside,” Sadie told them. A low growl emitted from the wagon.

“What is that?” Julia asked.

“My pet,” Jim answered. “Kayja, come here girl.”

“That’s an aki wolf, not a pet!” Julia exclaimed as the wolf appeared in the wagon doorway. Kayja’s eyes locked onto Jim, and she jumped into him. Jim caught the wolf and held her in his arms while she licked his face.

“She missed you,” Layla said from the doorway.

“That’s enough of that,” Jim told Kayja and sat her on the ground. Jim turned to Enoch and Julia. “Hold your hands out so she can get your scent.”

“Kayja is a bit shy, but friendly enough,” Sadie told them.

“She is also very protective of Jim, unless you’re a stone troll,” Layla added. The enchanter and his daughter looked back and forth between them like they had lost their minds. Kayja broke the tension by nudging Julia’s leg. The girl leaned down and extended a hand. The wolf not only sniffed it, but then butted her head into it. Julia smiled and started to rub Kayja. Enoch then extended his hand for the wolf to smell.

“See? Not that bad at all,” Jim said. “Come on, let me show you the wagon.”

“No, not bad. I’ve heard of aki wolves being used by a village west of here as guardians, but I’ve never seen or heard of a person with one, much less being playful with it,” Enoch replied. He followed Jim up onto the wagon’s porch. He saw that Julia was torn between following them and playing with the wolf, which was now running around her legs and Sadie’s. “Play with the wolf for a few minutes if you want to. Tomorrow we will be busy doing the protections Jim wants.”

“Thanks dad.”

“We also need to go back to the lady with the towels,” Sadie chimed in. Julia and Enoch nodded.

“What towels?” Layla asked.

“Where’s Jade,” Sadie asked.

“Went to find a privy,” Layla asked. Sadie and Julia told her about the towels as Jim and Enoch entered the wagon.

*

“I can do what you want done. The privy and shower, you called it, are smart. We have our own outhouse and a tub, but nothing like that. I think I’ll use that idea myself,” Enoch told Jim after he had done the lock enchantment and keyed it to Jim through a blood bond. “I’m not sure about the smell though.”

“I figure I can use flowers, herbs, or such. Unless you can make a clean air enchantment?” Jim asked. He had stuck with Enoch the whole time the enchanter worked as he found the enchanting process fascinating. He had given Sadie 4 silvers and asked the guard to get him a dozen towels and washcloths. He also asked her to get him a blanket. She returned with what he asked, plus a bed sheet and pillowcase. Jim was pleased and gave her a silver as a bonus. He didn’t ask how many her and her sisters bought nor if they bought the enchanted waterskins.

“Maybe. I remember seeing a rune that would improve air in mines in a book years ago. I would have to see if I can find it.”

“I’ll be here for at least two weeks, so I would appreciate it if you would look for it,” Jim replied. Enoch nodded agreement. “What about the stove and sink?”

“The sink is easy enough. It’ll be the same as the shower. The stove works off wood now?”

“Yeah, it does.”

“That is a smart invention on its own.”

“True, and I think it would sell well as is. That said, I want more utility out of it. There are times when one cooks that they need a high heat and others where they need a lower heat. That is hard to do with a wood fire. Hence, asking for it to be enchanted.”

“That makes a lot of sense. I can do the work, but it’ll be tricky.”

“Expensive tricky?”

“Is there any other kind of tricky in our lines of work?” Enoch asked.

“No,” Jim laughed.

“I’ll do the work for 20 gold and throw in a light enchantment that gives off the same amount of light as your lanterns,” Enoch said. “If you think that is too high, well, we can trade if you have rare goods, or you can ask others what they would charge you.”

“I won’t ask others. I asked who the best enchanters were before I came to you. You are in the top two. I do have some rare and new items,” Jim replied. “Do you drink alcohol?”

“Jim, I refuse to negotiate while drinking.”

“No, I’m not trying to get you drunk,” Jim laughed. He produced his open bottle of sake and a cup. He poured a little in the cup and offered it to Enoch. “This is one of my wares. It is a rice wine called sake.”

The enchanter took the cup and sniffed it. He then took a sip. “That’s pretty good.”

“I’m out of that flavor but have an apple flavored batch fermenting.”

“Apple you say?”

“Yes. Here,” Jim got up and showed the enchanter one of the jugs he used to ferment the rice in. Jim removed the cap. “Smell.”

“I love the smell and taste of apples. I’ve never seen this type of wine before. Where did you get it and when will this be ready?”

“I brought it from my…home. You won’t find it anywhere else. This batch should be ready in a couple more days.”

“I’ll take a gold off for 5 bottles,” Enoch replied. Jim did his best to keep a poker face on.

“I can do that. I also have something called a grill that you might like,” Jim said as he set one on the table between them. “This is like the stove top, uses charcoal or wood to cook, and has a grate for a top instead of a solid metal surface.”

“This is interesting, but I don’t know if I have a need for something like that.”

“I’ll be using one to cook some samples tomorrow so you can see how they work. You could buy the grills from me, if you like them after seeing them in action tomorrow, then enchant the grills like the stove, and charge a premium price for a portable cooking device.”

“I’ll consider it,” Enoch hedged after a moment. He pulled a quill and parchment out of his storage ring to write up an invoice for Jim’s work.

“Here, try this,” Jim offered a pen and notebook.

“What’s are these?”

“A fountain pen and notebook. I think you’ll like them better than your quill and parchment,” Jim said. Enoch took the items and gave the notebook a cursory glance. The pen really got his attention though. He tried both.

“This pen is amazing! How sturdy is it? Could it hold liquid mithril? Did you bring these from your homeland too?”

“The pen is made from steel, so is pretty sturdy. I just use them to write with, so have no idea about using liquid mithril as ink. You’re thinking of wanting to use one to do your runes with instead of the engraver, aren’t you?”

“I am,” Enoch agreed. He flipped to another page in the notebook and quickly drew a rune.” That is much faster, smaller, and easier than what I can do with the engraver.”

“Do you have any more liquid mithril with you?” Jim asked as he held out another pen. “This pen is empty.”

“I would hate to ruin your product, if it doesn’t work.”

“Consider it an experiment and we can deduct the cost from your price.”

“Fair enough,” Enoch replied as he took the pen. Jim showed him how to fill it. The enchanter filled the pen with some liquid mithril.

“That looks no thicker than the ink I have. The pen should work with it.”

“Dad, what are you two doing in there? I’m ready to go home and get something to eat!” Julia yelled into the wagon.

“Just a few more minutes. We are experimenting,” Enoch called out. He looked around as he spoke. “I don’t want to waste mithril on parchment. What can I try this on?”

“Here, Julia. Try these,” Jim called out to the enchanter’s daughter.

“Try what?” she asked standing in front of the porch. Jim handed her a bag of chips and popcorn.

“Oh! Those are good,” Jade informed Julia. “If you don’t want them, I’ll gladly eat them.”

“Thanks Jim. I’ll try them at least,” Julia said as she walked back to the other guards. She shouted a moment later, “These are great!”

“I have seen a warehouse that had a cold enchantment used to keep fish on ice. Could you do one on the wagon that merely cools it instead of freezes?”

“I could. Why?”

“It gets warm in here even with the windows open,” Jim replied. “And you want to test the pen.”

“In return you get an extra enchantment out of this.”

“Yep,” Jim agreed with a shrug.

“Fine. Let’s see what happens,” Enoch said. The runes were not as deep as they would have been with his engraver, but the work progressed much quicker. It took mere minutes to do the cooling and on/off runes. Enoch tested the runes and they worked perfectly. “Do you want one for heat too?”

“No. I plan on using the stove for heat if it gets cold enough.”

“You’ll find out in five more months how cold it gets when winter hits.”

“True.”

“How many pens do you have?”

“19 counting that one. I charge 25 silvers for each.”

“I’ll probably have to enchant the pens to stay sharp,” Enoch mused. “I’ll take a dozen. That’ll be four gold off my price counting the sake.”

“Make it five gold off and I’ll throw in the notebook, 5 inkpots, and a large grill.”

“I don’t know.”

“Take the offer dad and let’s go!”

“Alright. Let me write this up.”

“About time!”

Jim gave the enchanter 11 more pens, the inkpots, and five gold. “I’ll get you the five bottles of sake when it’s ready in the next couple of days and pay the other 10 gold when you’re done.”

“It’s been a pleasure doing business with you Jim,” Enoch agreed with a handshake. “Let me get Julia home before she decides to eat your wolf. We’ll be here two hours after sunrise in the morning.”

*

Jim booked a room for himself and another for the guards for the night at the inn the guards recommended. That was 30 coppers. The room was ok, but Jim decided he liked his wagon better, especially the bed. The bath and supper were just what he needed though. Before he went to bed, Jim updated his inventory and checked his stats.

{

Jim Merchant

Level: 4

Class: Merchant

Health: 140

Stamina: 140

Strength(6)

Endurance(6)

Dexterity(7)

Charisma(12)

Intelligence(10)

Wisdom(7)

Luck(10)

Skills: Inspect(7)

Bartering(2)

Harvesting(2)

Invention(3)

Strategy(1)

Tactics(1)

Gold:35

Silver:23

Copper:20

}

Chapter 42

“Are my three missing guards back yet?”

“No Mr Barrett. They are still with Jim Merchant as ordered,” Carter answered.

“Their task was to see him to Raven’s Rest, not lallygag with him.”

“Sir, they were ordered to stay with him until relieved. That was expected to be at the gate, but since we got separated due to the troll…”

“I see,” Michael replied. “If they are not back by morning, you will fetch them. If they do not return with you, I will dock them one month’s pay and cancel their contracts. You are dismissed.”

“Yes sir,” Carter acknowledged his employer’s words and left.

“Is Merchant a problem yet?”

“No Samir, but he is becoming an irritation,” Michael replied while pouring himself some sake. He held the cup up. “This is the only thing keeping him from being a problem at the moment.”

“I could…question him.”

“No. Your methods are not something I feel will be needed. I’ll find out how he makes it in time.”

*

“What time does the butcher open?” Jim asked Julia and Enoch when they arrived the next morning.

“In an hour or so. Why?”

“I need a lot of meat.”

“Why?”

“Because I promised myself, I would reward Skarn the next time I head to Swift River,” Jim answered while rubbing Kayja’s belly. He was sitting on the porch with her spread out beside him.

“Jim, you have to be joking,” Layla told him. Her sisters nodded in agreement.

“Nope. I’m dead serious. If it wasn’t for Skarn, we wouldn’t be here.”

“Who is skarn?” Enoch asked.

“Skarn is the stone troll we ran into,” Jade answered.

“Jim, you don’t give trolls food. They will expect other people to do the same,” Enoch explained.

“I’ve talked to Skarn and told him, or is it her? Does anyone know what sex the troll is? Anyway. I told Skarn that they couldn’t just demand food and that it would have to trade animal skins or other things for food after approaching people carefully.”

“Jim, you’re a strange man,” Julia said with a grin.

“We’ve said the same thing,” Sadie agreed.

“Besides, I hope to sell some of the meat at other villages and towns. Plus, I need more to give away samples while I showcase the grills,” Jim added. He turned to the guards. “Since Michael hasn’t bothered to retrieve you three yet, who wants to go with me to the butcher?”

“I’ll go,” Layla volunteered. Jim hopped off the porch and ordered Kayja to stay with the wagon. “We’re going now?”

“Yep. I’ll wake the butcher if I have to. I want to beat the crowds and get back here as quickly as possible.”

*

“Marvin’s Meats,” Layla read the sign. “I’ve always appreciated the simplicity the Raven’s Rest businesses use for their signage.”

“Aye. It is nice,” Jim agreed while he pounded on the door.

“What do you want? The shop is closed!” A gruff voice bellowed from the upstairs window. Jim and Layla looked up.

“Are you Marvin, the butcher?”

“I’m not Milly the seamstress. If you want meat, come back in two hours when I’m open.”

“I’m afraid I cannot wait. I need a lot of meat and will pay quite well for it.”

“How much do you want?” Marvin asked with a gleam in his eyes.

“A few hundred pounds depending on what you have.”

“What’s your name?”

“Jim Merchant.”

“Ha! I’ll be right down Jim.”

*

“You want me to ground 50 pounds of bison meat with a hammer?”

“Yes, unless you have a blade that can cut it into the small pieces I need.”

“That will take at least an hour to do. What else do you want?”

“How are your steaks?”

“Best in the city and weigh a pound a piece.”

“25 of those, 75 pounds of bacon, 50 pounds of ham, 10 pounds of bison cut into little tips,” Jim started with his list. “Do you have sausage?”

“Aye. I have smoked and fresh.”

“I’ll take 25 pounds of each.”

“Anything else Mr Merchant?”

“Chicken?”

“Aye, we have chicken too.”

“Give me 50 pounds of chicken then.”

“I don’t have any fish today. Barrett’s caravan ran into an issue and arrived late.”

“I know. We were there,” Layla said.

“Truly?”

“On my honor.”

“Heard it was a troll.”

Layla smiled as she knew the butcher was fishing for information.

“A stone troll that Jim,” she indicated Jim with a nod of her head, “negotiated a deal with. That’s why he needs so much meat now.”

“Sounds like a good story there.”

“It is,” Layla replied.

“I’ll tell you for a small discount,” Jim added.

“Ha. Depending on the story, I’ll give you a few pounds of bacon for free.”

“I also have some iron elk meat I would be willing to trade, Jim offered with a raised eyebrow.

“Let me see it,” Marvin said. Jim pulled the meat from his ring and set it on the counter. He had 15 pounds of it.

“I thought you gave that to Skarn,” Layla inquired.

“No. I kept it.”

“These are good cuts. Whoever dressed the elk knows what they are doing.”

“The nobles and wealthy merchants love this stuff. So do guards.”

“It’s a little too gamey for my taste,” Jim admitted.

“I’ll trade you the ham for what you have here.”

“Deal,” Jim quickly agreed.

“You could have gotten more for the elk,” Layla told Jim and earning herself a scowl from Marvin.

“I thought so. But I’m not greedy and I’m hoping Marvin will remember that when he gets me the steaks.”

“Aye lad, I will,” Let’s talk price. “I charge 5 coppers a pound for everything but the steaks. Those are 10 coppers each.”

Jim did the math. “That’s 1 gold, 4 silvers, and 50 coppers.”

“Aye. I’ll let you have it all for one gold if your story is good enough since you’re buying so much.”

“Fair enough,” Jim agreed. He spent several minutes telling Marvin about Skarn. He left out the loot and coin he had gotten.

“Hahaha. That was good. I’ll enjoy repeating it in the taverns. Give me a few minutes and I’ll get everything but the bison meat for you. I’ll have to grind the meat and cut the tips and steaks. My son, William, makes deliveries in the mornings. He can bring them to you by noon.”

“That will work for me,” Jim replied and paid the one gold to Marvin. Alright. I’ll get the rest out of the freezer and be back in a few minutes.”

“You have a freezer?” Layla asked.

“Of course. It cost a lot to enchant the basement, but I couldn’t do business without it,” Marvin answered before heading into the back.

Jim stopped the butcher. “Marvin, do you know any painters?”

“There are none. Most people don’t paint often, and the wealthy have servants they can order to do it. Most general shops sell paint though.”

“Thanks.”

*

“Where have you been?”

“It’s good to see you too Carter,” Jim greeted the guard. The general merchant had charged Jim 7 silvers for the green and yellow paint. Jim got her down to 3 silvers and she promised to come and see Jim’s grills in the afternoon. “We went to the butcher and then a general store so I could get some paint.”

“Mr Barrett is demanding that Layla and the others return with me. If they don’t, he will not pay them for the month and fire them for breach of contract.”

“That’s not fair!” Julia exclaimed from under the wagon.

“Stay out of it, Julia,” Enoch warned from beside her.

“Yes sir.”

“It may not be fair, but it is in the contract,” Jade told the enchanter’s daughter. Sadie nodded in agreement.

“Give us a minute and we’ll come with you Carter.”

“Thanks Layla.”

“You don’t have to go,” Jim told them. “My offer still stands.”

“Thanks, but we’ll finish out our contracts. Remember what I told the butcher about my honor. We take that very seriously Jim,” Layla replied.

“Alright.”

“We may come looking for you when the contracts end in a few months,” Jade said. “We’ll have to talk about it more though.”

“Ok,” Jim replied as the four guards walked away. After they disappeared, Jim addressed the enchanter, “Enoch, do you know where I can find some guards?”

“There are guilds in the main square near the government buildings. That is the best bet.”

“You could also try any tavern,” Julia added with a grin.

“Would paint mess with the runes?”

“No. Are you wanting to paint the wagon too?”

“Yeah.”

“The paint will help hide the runes,” Julia advised Jim.

“You two are going to just work out here today?”

“Yeah. The protections will take all day to do.”

“Alright. I’m going to lock the wagon and head to the guilds. I’ll be back before noon regardless of if I hire some guards or not.”

“We’ll be here.”

“Hurry back though. I’ll be hungry by then and want to see how your grills work,” Julia teased him.

“Will do. Kayja, guard the wagon and our enchanters,” Jim ordered the aki wolf. A single bark was his answer.

“Jim, before you go, let me give you some advice.”

“Ok.”

“Buy a coin purse and put a few silvers and some coppers in it,” Enoch said. Seeing Jim’s questioning look, he continued, “The thieves here are vicious. If they don’t see a pack, bag, or purse, they will know you have a storage ring. Most will attempt to cut off your finger to take it. The smart ones will kill you for it since they know rings are a blood bound item.”

“Thanks Enoch. I’ll do that.”

Chapter 43

Jim bought 5 loaves of bread that he got the baker to cut into slices for 15 coppers on his way to the guilds after checking on the mules. He also purchased a basic coin purse for 20 coppers and filled it with 2 silvers and 25 coppers. This was the first time Jim had been alone in days and he felt anxious. On earth, he would have killed for a few days alone. Yet he already missed having Kayja with him and the three guards too.

Jim bypassed the mercenary guild with barely a glance at the sign. After Sawyer and Amir, Jim wanted nothing to do with mercenaries. Jim knew that any hired guard was technically a mercenary but tried not to dwell on that fact. Jim considered the adventurer’s guild and dismissed it after thinking about how boring guarding a merchant should be. That left the apt named Guardian’s Guild.

*

Inspect showed the man in the ridiculous bright orange, pale yellow, and deep green clothing at the counter was Sebastian, a level 3 bureaucrat. Jim almost laughed out loud as he imagined the man gaining levels from the amount of red tape he spun for others. Jim could almost hear the snooty attitude and voice the man must speak with already.

“I’ll be with you in a moment. I just need to finish this first,” Sebastian said without looking up as Jim stopped in front of him. Jim coughed to stifle his laughter as his imagined snooty voice was awfully close to Sebastian’s real voice. The bureaucrat looked up at the cough.

“Sorry. Just had a tickle in my throat,” Jim told him with a smile.

“Indeed,” Sebastian sniffed. Jim could see the disdain in Sebastian’s eyes as the man gave Jim’s appearance a once over. The elven clothing Jim wore was high quality and enchanted but looked like the rough spun clothing most villagers wore despite being brighter shades of color. Jim almost wished it looked fancier and quickly dismissed the thought. “How can the Guardian’s Guild help you, Mr…”

“Merchant, Jim Merchant,” Jim supplied his name.

“I…, How can I help you Mr Merchant?”

“I’m a traveling merchant or trader, if you prefer, and am in need of three or four guards for a long-term open-ended contract.”

“We can certainly assist you with that,” Sebastian carefully replied. He looked around the room, stood, and looked some more. Jim cracked a smile at the absurdity that standing would make something or someone appear that he couldn’t see sitting down. “There’s never a runner around when I need one. If you will excuse me for a moment, I’ll gather a few of our members that are on the premises and then bring you to them.”

“That will be fine,” Jim said as the bureaucrat started walking to a side door. Jim watched him go. Sebastian walked stiff legged with his cheeks pinched. “Yep. That man has a corncob stuck up his keister.”

*

Jim was led into a small conference room by a woman named Isabelle, who happened to be a level 2 bureaucrat. Sebastian had returned to his desk at the front and ignored Jim after saying someone else would be assisting him for the rest of his visit to the guild. Sebastian’s attitude had irked Jim. Being handed off to a lesser flunky ticked him off as she displayed the same disdain for Jim that Sebastian had, but he followed along since he really needed guards.

In the room were about a dozen candidates. Jim immediately noticed all wore mismatched armor. Inspect showed all were low level as well. The highest ranked was level 3 and the fellow looked more like a newbie fantasy rogue complete with mask and cowl, than guard as he twirled a dull looking dagger in his hands. Two thirds of them looked no older than 16 and the rest looked old enough to need walkers.

“These are all the candidates the guild has available?”

“These are the ones that are suitable to your task,” Isabelle replied. Jim imagined the “and that you can afford” the woman didn’t speak. He also noticed she didn’t say the members were qualified. Jim felt angry at his treatment and sad for the guild members at the same time. He decided to question them and see if any were worth contracting with.

“May I interview them?”

“Of course,” Isabelle replied and sat at the long table in the room. Jim sat uninvited two chairs from her. Isabelle looked like she wanted to object but held back as Jim pulled a pen and notebook from his inventory. The items intrigued her as he knew they would.

“My name is Jim Merchant, and I am a traveling merchant. I’m in need of 3 or 4 guards to travel with me,” Jim announced to the group of candidates. “Ok, first question for all of you, as I am packing my wares up for the day, I drop some coins without realizing it. You notice the coins. Do you take the coin for yourself or return it to me?

*

“Last question. There is a stone troll south of Raven’s Rest along the trail to Swift River. Yes, that is a true statement if anyone is wondering. The troll calls out and approaches us. Do you attack it, do you run away, or do you stay with me and see what happens?

“I wouldn’t go south at all until the mages have killed the troll,” the rogue looking guy scoffed. “You would be on your own Merchant.”

Most of the others agreed with him. Four admitted they would run away and leave Jim to his fate. One of the youngest girls stated she would be too afraid to move, so she would stay with him.

“Skarn, the troll, is friendly enough. I negotiated a deal with it on the way into the city. The guards I had with me at the time, stuck by my side.”

“Then why don’t you still have them employed?” an older man asked.

“Layla, Jade, and Sadie work for Michael Barrett. They were assigned to me while we traveled together,” Jim admitted. He pointed to the young girl, whose name he hadn’t bothered to learn, that had stated she would have been too scared to move. “If she were older, she would be the only one of you I would hire.”

“Considering the other guards, you mentioned were women, I’m not surprised,” another young boy said with a sneer. Jim shrugged and turned to the girl.

“Find a merchant or family that needs a guard here in Raven’s Rest and level your skills. After you gain experience, if you want to travel at that point, find another traveling merchant then,” Jim advised before standing up. The girl nodded her understanding. He walked to the door and turned to the guild members before exiting. “I wish you all better luck in the future and hope you have a good day.”

*

“Mr Merchant, wait.”

“Yes Isabelle?” Jim asked as he stopped.

“Where did you get that tool and book you were using in there from?”

“I sell the pens and notebooks.”

“How much do you charge?”

Jim was still terribly angry at the guild, Isabelle, and the jerk out front. “One pen, two notebooks, and five inkpots for 50 silvers.”

“That is insane!” Isabelle exclaimed.

“Perhaps. But you will never find a finer writing instrument and the notebooks work far better than single sheets of parchment.”

The bureaucrat deflated and pulled the money from her ring. Jim smiled, took the coin, and gave her the office supplies. “Thank you for your business.”

*

On the way back to the market square, Jim passed an herbalist’s shop. The smells drew Jim inside. As Jim browsed the woman’s wares, he found sugar, garlic, paprika, and even vinegar. Jim still had some tomatoes left. He suddenly decided to make ketchup. He bought what he thought he would need, including a stone mortar and pestle, and headed back to the wagon. It was 10:30 in the morning.

*

Jim updated his inventory while the tomato sauce mixture cooked. The apple flavored sake batch produced 10 12-ounce bottles. Five of those were promised to Enoch. Jim decided to make another batch of it and a batch of the regular sake. Several merchants in the square had items Jim had wanted. He bought 125 bottles for 1 gold, 10 pounds of sugar for 1 silver, a 20-ounce bottle of vinegar for 10 coppers, a pound of garlic for 20 coppers, a 20-ounce bottle of paprika for 10 coppers, and 250 more bags for 1 silver and 25 coppers. The mortar and pestle cost him 5 silvers.

*

Jim tried the test batch of ketchup. It didn’t taste quite the same, but it would do. Jim estimated the 5 bottles he had cost 10 coppers each to make with the small amounts of the ingredients used. He thought he could get away with charging 25 coppers for 4 he planned on selling. He would try that anyway.

“Jim, we’re going to go get something to eat and be back in an hour,” Enoch called into the wagon. It was 1 in the afternoon.

“What is that smell?” Julia asked. “It smells good.”

“Why don’t I treat you?”

“I thought you wanted to sell stuff this afternoon.”

“I do. But I also promised to show you how the grills work. Julia, that smell is something called ketchup. I think you’ll love it,” Jim told the two enchanters.

“Why not. It saves us money,” Enoch replied after asking his daughter.

“The burgers and fries will take about half an hour to prep and cook,” Jim informed them. He checked his notices and saw that Invention had leveled. Jim smiled.

{

Jim Merchant

Level: 4

Class: Merchant

Health: 140

Stamina: 140

Strength(6)

Endurance(6)

Dexterity(7)

Charisma(12)

Intelligence(10)

Wisdom(7)

Luck(10)

Skills: Inspect(7)

Bartering(2)

Harvesting(2)

Invention(4)

Strategy(1)

Tactics(1)

Gold:33

Silver:63

Copper:10

}

William, Marvin’s son, had arrived a little after 12:30 with Jim’s order and apologized for running late. He had made Jim the last delivery since the order was much larger than the others. Jim invited the teen to stay and have lunch with them. He agreed.

Jim used 10 pounds of ground meat for their burgers and to make samples. Jim used a couple pounds of potatoes for fries. He figured he had half a bushel of potatoes left. He also used 2 bags of chips and 2 of popcorn as samples. As he had hoped, a large crowd gathered around his wagon as he grilled.

“This is really good Mr Merchant,” William praised Jim’s cooking in between eating and making eyes with Julia. Bill, the guard from the gate, showed up while they ate.

Chapter 44

“Is this crowd your fault Mr Merchant?”

“I guess so. Some people are curious about my grills and the aroma from the burgers attracted even more,” Jim answered. “Would you like to join us and try some?”

“Yes, I would like that. Let me get some more guards to control this crowd first,” Bill answered. A few minutes later, Bill returned with a dozen guards to force the crowd to make a lane so others could shop and walk past. They also tried to keep the pickpockets under control, which proved extremely hard. Jim was glad the guard didn’t blame him for the crowd or crime.

“Thanks Jim. We’re going back to work now,” Enoch advised after resting a few more minutes. Julia joined him a moment later after smiling at William.

“Lad, you should ask to see her,” Bill advised William after the enchanters started working on the rear of the wagon. They had already finished the bottom.

“You really think so?”

“Aye. You might want to wait until they are at their shop though. Enoch might not take kindly to having their work disrupted,” Bill answered.

“I’ll do that,” William stated with a grin. He stood. “I better get back to the shop before dad starts wondering where I’m at.”

“William, tell your dad I’ll want another 50 pounds of the ground bison in the next few days.”

“I just delivered 50 pounds!”

“And I used 10 to cook for us and make samples.”

“Ok. It’ll probably be two or three days before he has enough again. We’ll have to slaughter another bison,” William replied and turned to go.

“Wait. Here is half what he charged me for the first 50 pounds. I’ll pay you the rest when you deliver,” Jim told the teen and paid him a silver and a 2-copper tip.

“Thanks.”

“I know you have Julia on the mind, but don’t forget.”

“I won’t.”

“Excuse me, Mr Merchant,” a woman in the crowd called out. Jim turned toward her voice.

“Ma’am?”

“What is this meat. It tastes like bison, but no butcher does this to it.”

“It’s bison that has been ground up and cooked on a grill over charcoal.”

“And he got it from Marvin’s Meats,” William shouted before taking off which produced some laughter.

“And a grill is the square thing beside you?” another woman asked.

“Yes ma’am. This is a large grill. I also have two smaller ones,” Jim replied. He pulled a small square one and a round one from inventory to show the crowd. He wasn’t worried about thieves with Bill sitting with him and the other guards so close by, but it served as a reminder he really needed to hire some guards.

“How much are they?” a man asked.

“The big one is 75 silvers. The two smaller ones are 50 silvers each. I have 14 of each grill in stock.”

“I’ll take one of the big ones,” the man replied as he pushed through the crowd. The two women and a few other people lined up behind him. Several others in the crowd left.

“Stop! Thief!” a man shouted from the back of the crowd. The crowd, Jim, and Bill turned at the shout. The man grabbed at a cowled head. The hood fell back to reveal a blonde ponytail as the thief ran away.

“A girl?” Jim asked.

“Aye. Wouldn’t doubt it,” Bill answered as two guards gave chase.

“Probably an orphan,” the man added as he gave Jim the silver. The customer allowed another man to pick up the grill and place it in a storage bag. “Do you have other wares?”

“I do. I won’t cook tomorrow but will setup a more traditional stand to show off what else I have.”

“Excellent. I shall return tomorrow to peruse your wares,” the man replied and waved his fellow on.

“Bill, do you know where I can find some dependable guards from?”

“Aye lad, I do. I’ll take you to a favorite haunt of my kin after my shift ends at sunset. Some of my fellows are always looking for work,” Bill answered as Jim sold one of the women one of the round grills. “Today is my day in the market, so I’ll hang around here instead of roving around.”

“I appreciate that,” Jim told the guard after thanking the woman for her purchase. She also stated she would return the next day.

“And perhaps you can give me another sample of your sake when my shift ends,” Bill told Jim with a huge grin on his face.

“I could do that. The apple flavored sake is ready,” Jim replied after selling a third grill.

Jim sold 2 grills of each type over the afternoon. He also sold 25 bags of popcorn and 30 bags of chips. Jim had let Kayja out of the wagon, but she returned to it instead of dealing with all the people. Jim hoped she would get used to the crowds.

Before Enoch and Julia left, Jim gave the enchanter the five bottles of sake he had agreed to give Enoch. Enoch and Julia had finished most of the outside of the wagon but needed to do the front the next day. It helped that each board only needed one rune of each type of protection as did the three windows. That had saved the enchanters a lot of time and labor.

Julia had also done the light enchantment, plus the on and off runes for it right beside the door too. Jim liked the idea of an on and off switch. He wasn’t so crazy about the line of mithril running from the on and off runes up the wall to the light rune though. He might end up having to paint the inside of the wagon after all.

“That’s some good stuff, but I like the other flavor better,” Bill stated after trying the apple flavored sake as the sun set. “Are you ready to see if we can find you some guards?”

“Yeah. Give me a few minutes to feed Kayja and give her some affection,” Jim answered after adding up his sales totals. 75 coppers from popcorn, 90 coppers from chips, 25 coppers from Julia for a bottle of ketchup, 3 gold and 50 silvers from grills for a total of 3 gold 51 silver and 90 coppers for the day. Jim decided it had been a good day.

*

The Blind Groundhog was where Bill led Jim. The tavern was made of stone, which surprised Jim. Most of the buildings he had seen in Raven’s Rest were made of wood except for the temple, government, and guild buildings.

The interior was about what he expected. Lots of tables and benches scattered about the common room, a small stage where a bard played a lute and sang a song, and a long bar running half the length of the back wall. In the middle of the back wall was a door that the bar and shelves were built around. Jim assumed it led to a back room or kitchen.

Over 75% of the clientele were dwarves. The few other patrons were a mixture of every race Jim had encountered so far. Bill looked around when they entered and then led Jim to a table in the rear left corner with four dwarves sitting at it. The bartender gave Bill a questioning look and held up two fingers. Bill nodded and stopped at the table.

“Jim, meet my cousins Remi and Eloise. The knuckleheads with them are their husbands Leo and Rhett. You lot, meet Jim Merchant, a traveling merchant new to the area,” Bill introduced everyone and took a seat. Jim was gestured to a chair beside Eloise across from Bill. Leo sat on the other side of his wife, while Rhett sat on the other side of his. Hellos were exchanged as the bartender brought two mugs to Bill. “Max, meet Jim, a traveling merchant. Jim, meet Max, the owner of this establishment and worst bartender in town.”

“Keep it up Bill and I’ll toss you out,” Max grinned. He shook Jim’s hand. “Nice to meet you, Jim.”

“Likewise, Max.”

“Jim, give Max a taste of your sake flavors.”

“Sake? What’s that?” Leo asked.

“Sake is rice wine,” Jim answered.

“What is rice?” Remi asked.

“A type of grain that is edible. It can also be used to make a good alcoholic drink.”

“I’ve never heard of either before,” Eloise said. “I would like to try both.”

“Me too,” Rhett said as the others nodded.

“Can we get some empty cups?” Jim asked as he sensed Bill wanted him to make a sale to his favorite watering hole.

“Sure. I’ll be right back,” Max answered.

“Max, I need another mead,” a voice called out.

“Quit yer bellyaching. I’m coming.”

“That’s strong,” Jim coughed after taking a sip of his mead. Eloise patted him on the back which made Jim cough more. She was strong. Jim Inspected the four. They were all level 12 guards. Bill himself, was level 10. Jim almost slapped himself for not checking Bill’s level before.

“Are you alright lad?” Max asked Jim as he returned.

“Yeah. I didn’t expect the mead to pack the punch it does or for Eloise to be so powerful too,” Jim sheepishly answered.

“I thank you for the compliment,” Eloise said to Jim with a bright smile. He smiled and nodded back.

“Alright. Let’s try this sake drink,” Rhett said. Jim produced the partial bottle he had left of regular sake and poured a measure into five cups.

“Jim don’t be stingy,” Bill chided.

“You have a bottle.”

“Aye. I want to save it to,” he replied with a wink.

“Fine,” Jim agreed and poured some into another empty cup.

“That is nice,” Leo said. The others nodded in agreement. Jim put the empty bottle away. He then poured a measure of the apple flavored sake for them.

“This is the apple flavor,” Jim informed the dwarves. The women sipped while the men gulped it down.

“That is better,” Remi stated. The others agreed while Bill shook his head in the negative.

“I like the plain better,” Bill told them.

“Where did you get this?” Rhett asked.

“I make it,” Jim answered.

“How much do you have?” Leo asked.

“Four bottles and a half of the apple flavor. I’m out of the plain.”

“Are you selling them and how much per bottle?” Remi asked.

“One silver for the plain. Four for the apple flavored,” Jim answered to looks of surprise. “It’s a new beverage with a very limited supply.”

“Good point,” Eloise said.

“I’ll take all four if you give me the half bottle too,” Max announced. Leo looked like he wanted to object but settled down after Bill coughed and waved him down.

“You have a deal,” Jim agreed. They exchanged money and sake. Max left to tend bar looking incredibly pleased.

“He’ll make the money back within a week,” Remi told the table.

“Aye,” Rhett agreed. “Max is a sly one.”

“Now that tavern business is done,” Bill started,” do you four still need work?”

“Aye,” Rhett answered. “The guild kicked us out.”

“Jim needs guards,” Eloise guessed.

“I do,” Jim confirmed.

“For how long?” Remi asked.

“I don’t know. I plan on traveling from place to place until I make enough to open a shop in a city or town that I like.”

“You would have to hire all four of us and pay for room and board where there are inns,” Leo warned. “Tents and bedrolls can get very uncomfortable.”

“Each of us normally gets 20 silvers a month,” Rhett added.

“Lower ranked guards get 10 silvers or less a month depending on their level,” Eloise explained. “Guards rank 20 or higher get at least twice that.” Jim nodded in understanding. He figured it would be high to hire guards but didn’t think it would be that much. Jim thought he should have known better since Michael had charged 10 silvers for four days of security by three guards that were level 7.

“I have no problem paying that, but I don’t like the idea of paying for your rooms at inns. How about I cook meals for you when we’re on the road instead?” Jim offered. Jim thought it would be slightly cheaper, especially with him using some of his wares to cook.

“That’s a fair offer,” Bill told his family. “Jim is a deft hand with his grill. Those fries, popcorn, and chips were tasty too.”

“Grill?”

“Popcorn?”

“Chips and fries?”

“A portable cooking device that lets you fry food over charcoal or wood instead of having to cook over a campfire or use a fireplace,” Jim answered. He produced a bag of chips and a bag of popcorn. He pointed at each and named them. “Fries are a hot version of chips that are bigger and thicker or cut into long strips about the size of my finger.”

“Try them,” Bill urged and took a chip for himself. Max came back over when he saw they had food. After trying them, he bought every bag Jim had and went back to his bar.

“Those are good. If your cooking is that good, I can agree with your terms,” Rhett agreed to nods from the others. Jim would pay 20 silvers to each to retain their services. The five of them hashed out a contract, that included death benefits based on the time of year and their yearly salary, which Jim wrote up. They all signed. Jim made two more copies for the dwarf couples, which they all signed as well. It was agreed that the guards would start in the morning, but escort Jim to his wagon. He had decided to stay in it for the night to save money.

“Jim?” Remi asked to get Jim’s attention as they left the tavern.

“Yes Remi?”

“Would you hire a smith too?”

“I’m not sure. Why?”

“Did the guild fire uncle Abel too?” Bill asked.

“Aye,” Elise answered. Seeing the questioning look on Jim’s face, she continued, “Abel, our father, is a blacksmith.”

“Oh,” Jim replied. He thought about it quickly. Having his own smith could be beneficial and solve his supply problem for certain products that he would need made. “Doesn’t he need a smithy? That wouldn’t work on the road.”

The dwarves laughed and Eloise explained to Jim that Abel had large enough storage items to hold a furnace, anvil, and anything else that was needed to work his craft. Abel could setup shop anywhere where the land was mostly flat.

“Bring him with you in the morning and we’ll talk,” Jim finally said.

Chapter 45

Jim woke up feeling guilty for not spending as much time with Kayja, Peggy, and Al as he felt he should have an hour before sunrise. Jim got up, let Kayja out, and locked the wagon behind them. He followed the wolf behind the livery and emptied his bladder as she took care of her own business. Jim played with Kayja until the sun rose.

“Getting hungry Kayja?” Jim asked the wolf. She barked at him and jumped onto the porch. “I take it that means yes. Let’s wash up a bit and get breakfast started. I’ll be so glad when Enoch and Julia get the shower and toilet working.”

Remembering that the dwarves wanted to try rice, Jim put a pot of rice on after adding wood to the stove. He would be glad when it was enchanted too. Jim started frying some ham. He figured a pound would be enough. Jim considered dicing up some potatoes for home fries or hash browns but decided against it as being too much work. He made biscuits with water instead since he didn’t have any milk.

Jim decided to give his pup some ham and rice too. It might not be the healthiest thing for her, but it was better than nothing or having her hunt for food. Jim turned his thoughts to the dwarves. He was worried about being betrayed again. His new guards seemed like good people, but he didn’t know hardly a thing about them. At least he would be able to end the contract and only be out the 80 silvers if things didn’t work out between them over the next few days.

*

The guards and smith arrived 20 minutes later. Jim had the door open and saw them approach.

“That is some wagon,” Abel whistled. Inspect showed that Abel was a level 20 smith.

“Yes, it is elder,” Leo agreed as the dwarves gathered around the door and looked inside.

“If you guys will let me finish cooking, I’ll let you come in and take a look after breakfast,” Jim called out to them.

“Are you making enough for us?” Remi asked with a teasing smile.

“Yes. You guys did say you wanted to try rice, so I think I put on enough. I’m also frying ham and will use the bits to make a thin gravy. I have some biscuits in the oven. I started fermenting 80 pounds of rice before I went to bed. That should produce 8 gallons of sake which is 80 bottles. Half will be each flavor.

“Lad, I have no idea what you are talking about, but what the deep dark is that thing you’re in front of?”

“This is a stove master smith. It is used for cooking.”

“Ha! I’m not a master smith. Call me elder, elder Abel, or just Abel.”

“I’m Jim Merchant, but everyone can just call me Jim,” Jim replied as he took up the last of the ham. The rice was already done. Jim checked his biscuits. He then scooped some rice into a bowl and added a piece of ham. Jim set it down by his bed. “Here you go, Kayja girl.”

The dwarves watched the wolf jump off Jim’s bed and sniffed the food. She started eating a second later as Jim grinned.

“Jim, what are you doing with an aki wolf?” Remi asked.

“Kayja was given to me as a reward and gift. I’ll tell the story over breakfast,” Jim replied. He stepped to the porch and crouched down. The dwarves moved to the side thinking he would jump down. Jim took his table out of storage. “Do you guys have chairs?”

“We do,” Rhett answered.

“Good. Will you move the table out a bit so we can all sit around it please?”

“Sure,” Leo replied. He and Rhett moved the table.

“Jim, should you be showing me your stuff since I’m not employed or contracted by you?” Abel asked.

“I don’t see why not,” Jim answered as he took the biscuits out of the oven and turned it off. He scooped the biscuits off the pan and onto a platter. Taking them to the door, he asked, “Will someone take these to the table and help me with the rest?”

“We will,” Eloise answered.

“Don’t hold the biscuits against me if they are not that good. I don’t have milk and had to use water,” Jim explained. Seeing the look the women gave him, he shrugged. “I love to cook as a hobby.”

“Pass the other food down,” Abel advised. “We need to discuss business too.”

“After breakfast,” Jim promised while passing down a plate of ham and the pot of rice. A couple of minutes, they sat to breakfast.

*

“I’m going to speak plainly Abel. I could use a personal smith to create some of my wares, but I have no idea what to pay you,” Jim told the blacksmith. Abel’s daughters and their husbands were checking out the wagon and Kayja while Abel and Jim talked.

“I would ask for a similar deal to what the youngsters got from you, except I want you to make my pay an even 20 gold a year,” Abel replied. “There are a few reasons for this. First, I’m a good smith. You will not have issues with my work. Second, I am older and more experienced. And finally, I can double as a guard. In my youth I worked as a guard and adventurer. When my wife and I had the girls, I gave that life up and started learning the blacksmith trade.”

Jim showed Abel a pen. “What do you think of this? It is a fountain pen and used to write instead of a quill.”

“I can improve upon the design and also make it better looking,” Abel answered after examining the pen.

“Would anyone have issue with you setting up your forge here and proving what you just said?”

Abel smiled. “I like the way you think. The proof is always in the pudding. And yes, the town would have issues with me setting up here or even behind the livery. I can setup outside of town or borrow a forge from one of the other smiths I know instead.”

“Alright. Do whichever you prefer,” Jim replied. He put a steel ingot on the table. “I have 99 more steel ingots and 200 iron ingots.”

“Let me tell the kids, take a look at your stove and wagon, and I’ll be back in two hours or less,” Abel said as he stood and took the ingot. It disappeared into his storage ring.

“Fair enough,” Jim stood and offered his hand to Abel. The smith shook it. Jim smiled. “I look forward to a most profitable relationship.”

“So do I lad. So do I,” Able grinned.

*

By midmorning, Jim had introduced the dwarves to the jackstocks and was using the new and improved fountain pen. Abel had improved the nib and it had a much finer point. He had also shortened the body and made it a little fatter which made the pen more comfortable in Jim’s hand as well as added some swirling engraving for aesthetic purposes. Abel had a second pen, which Jim filled with ink. He was most pleased with the man’s work and hired him without another thought. Jim paid the smith 1 gold to retain his services and gave him all the ingots as well as a notebook.

Enoch and his daughter had started on the interior of the wagon after Enoch requested 2 of the new pens. Abel promised to have them done by noon or shortly after and left to make them. Jim had asked if the guards were sure Abel wasn’t a master smith to much laughter. The speed and quality of Abel’s work made Jim wonder despite the man’s assurance that he was not. The dwarves swore it would take a lot more time and effort before Abel rose to those lofty ranks.

The protections the enchanters had made on the outside also worked on the inside. Jim asked why they didn’t just do the runes on the inside and Enoch explained it would keep the magic from interfering with each other too much. Jim accepted the answer even if it didn’t make a lot of sense to him. On the bright side, it meant the interior of the wagon wouldn’t be covered in runes.

Enoch asked Jim what he wanted done first and Jim answered the bathroom. He wanted a shower in the worst way as well as a working toilet. The enchanter, his daughter, and the dwarves all busted out laughing when Jim told them why he wanted the bathroom done first.

The only sales Jim had made were 3 pounds of salt, 5 dresses, 5 shirts, and 5 pairs of pants for a total of 3 gold and 1 silver thanks to the few people that had said they would return having done so. They were the ones that bought the salt. Others had stopped by wanting popcorn and chips, but Jim didn’t have any left to sell. All and all, it was a profitable day so far.

Jim fried a pound of bacon and made BLTs for lunch after Rhett sent Leo to buy a loaf of bread. The dwarves felt they should pay for the bread since Jim was paying for the rest and doing all the cooking even if that was their deal. Jim also made a small pot of chips to go with the sandwiches. He decided to start painting the wagon in the morning instead of selling his wares. Jim also decided to make chips and popcorn in the afternoon after painting. The only problem was Jim had forgot to buy paintbrushes.

*

Jim didn’t reopen after lunch. Instead, he decided to go buy the paintbrushes he needed. Leo and Eloise accompanied him while Remi and Rhett stayed with the wagon. Abel had decided to spend the afternoon making more pens.

The streets were crowded, which made his guards nervous. They asked him to return to the wagon, but Jim refused. He appreciated the concern though.

“Jim, part of our deal is that you listen to us when it concerns your safety,” Leo commented.

“I know. The shop I got the paint from is just up there,” Jim pointed to a shop two doors down. “I promise we’ll go back right after getting the brushes.”

“Alright. Just this once we will do it your way,” Eloise replied for her husband after they exchanged looks.

*

Leo was forcing a hole through the crowd a short time later so they could return to the wagon when Jim felt a hand brush his leg. If not for his enhanced senses, he would not have felt a thing the touch was so light. Jim’s right hand snaked out to catch the person’s left wrist as Eloise stepped into their path.

A dirty young woman with long, blonde hair about 18-20 years old stared up at Jim in shock. Their eyes met. Jim felt lost in the large blue eyes that stared at him. She seemed to see something in his brown eyes as well.

“Let me go!” the thief hissed after blinking and breaking whatever had passed between them.

“Not with you holding my coin purse in your hand.”

“I saw you grab it too,” Eloise added. The girl turned and saw Leo step behind her. Eloise called out, “We have caught a thief! Someone fetch the guard!”

The girl’s eyes widened in fear. “Please let me go!”

“You’re not going anywhere,” Leo said as he grabbed her shoulders the minute the girl stomped Jim’s foot forcing him to release her and tried to bolt.

“Cousin, what is going on?” Bill asked as he and two other guards approached.

“We caught a thief red handed as she tried to rob Jim.”

“I recognize you girl. This is your third offense,” the second guard stated. The thief started tearing up. “That’s right. It means you’ll be sold into slavery.”

He moved closer to the thief and grabbed her arm right arm. The guard brushed a hand through the girl’s hair and uncovered her ear. “Just as I thought, an elf.”

“I’m sure the pleasure houses will be glad to pay your debt and take you on once you’re clean,” the third guard sneered and grabbed his crotch. The young woman was openly weeping at this point.

“Will that happen, Bill?” Jim asked.

“Aye, most likely. Despite the dirt and grime, she is a pretty thing. She will be quite popular until she is used up.”

“And what if I don’t press charges?”

“Jim, you’re not seriously thinking about letting her go?” Leo asked. Eloise had started to look concerned as the town guards went on about what would most likely be the girl’s fate.

“I have stood by twice while others were enslaved.  Well, one was already enslaved, but I let him be taken by Rock Hope’s headman. I don’t think I can do so again and live with myself,” Jim stated. He denied to himself that it might be for another reason.

“It’s too late,” the third guard sneered. “We are here, have heard from your own mouths what happened, and have the girl in hand.”

“Bill, can I pay her fine or debt?”

“You would pay 2 gold for someone that tried to rob you? What sort of soft-hearted merchant are you?” the second guard asked.

“I’m the kind that does not condone enslaving and pimping out women.”

“Enough you two,” Bill interjected. “Yes Jim, you can pay the fine. But you will be essentially buying her or making the thief an indentured servant to you.”

“If you indenture the thief, it is for seven years or unless she can pay off the debt before that,” Eloise added. The girl looked back and forth between them through tear-streaked eyes. Her tears had left streaks through the dirt covering her face. Eloise asked her gently, “What is your name?”

“Ari…Ariana.”

“Which do you prefer Ariana? Coming with us and being indentured to Mr Merchant or going with the town guard,” Leo asked while stressing Jim’s name.

“Wha…what would being indentured entail?”

“Being my assistant. Helping run my stand, sell my wares, running errands,” Jim explained before grinning, “and helping tend my mules and pet.”

“No Jim. That last part is cruel,” Eloise laughed.

“The jackstocks are not just mules,” Leo agreed with his wife. “And an aki wolf is not just a pet.”

“Kayja is. Ok, she is also a hunter and guardian,” Jim shrugged.

“Al and Peggy are honestly not that bad.”

“Al and Peggy?” Bill asked.

“The mules.”

“I need to see those don’t I?”

“Yes Bill, you do,” Leo answered.

“Excuse us!” the second guard near shouted.

“Right. What will it be Ariana?” Jim asked.

“I…I’ll go with you,” she answered. Jim held up two gold coins.

“I’ll need a receipt or signed papers or whatever makes this legal.”

“Let’s head to your wagon and I’ll write it up. Your guards will act as witnesses and sign as well,” Bill replied taking the coin. He turned to the other guards. “You two get back to patrolling.”

Chapter 46

“Jim, I have to make sure. Are you sure you want to take the thief’s indenture?” Bill asked. “Unlike slaves, indentured folk don’t have collars, so you won’t have that level of control.”

“I made up my mind,” Jim answered settling into his chair in front of the wagon. He glanced at his new ward standing bracketed by Eloise and Leo. Jim could not think of her as an indentured servant or slave, and since he had not talked to her about being paid, he could not think of Ariana as an employee either. So, ward it was since he would have responsibility for over her. “Either Ariana will prove to be trustworthy, or she won’t. But what keeps indentured from running away?”

“Nothing. But supposedly the threat of slavery and their own sense of honor,” Leo answered.

“Alright,” Bill replied and produced his own chair. He pulled out a parchment form, inkpot, and quill. “This will take a few minutes to fill out.”

“You should really purchase one of my pens,” Jim told the guard. He pulled one of the older ones out and handed it to Bill. “Try it. You will find it works much better than your quill.”

“Jim, must you try to sell to our cousin too?” Remi asked as her and Rhett joined them from the livery. “We were checking on the mules and our ponies.”

“Is that what you’re calling it,” Leo asked while making a show of pulling something from her hair. Remi batted his hand away. Ariana blushed as she got the gist of what the dwarves were hinting at. Eloise noticed and smiled.

“Don’t mind them,” she told the younger woman.

“There is no straw in her hair because we were not doing what you are playing at,” Rhett told his bother-in-law. “Jim, Enoch and Julia have gone to lunch.”

“Ok. Is this what I’m going to have to put up with all the time from now on?” Jim asked mock seriously. The smile threatening his lips gave him away.

“Aye,” all four guards chorused. Bill and Jim chuckled.

“Jim, you are right. This works much better than a quill. The ink doesn’t run nearly as badly,” Bill said after finishing filling most of the form. He looked up at Ariana. “Ariana, how old are you?”

“19. I’ll be 20 in two months according to the orphanage.”

“No surname?”

“No.”

“Thought as much,” Bill replied while adding the information to the form.

“You’re not sure of your age or birthday?” Remi asked. Ariana shook her head no. Remi frowned, but said no more.

“Do you have any family? Bill asked. Ariana shook her head in the negative again and he filled that in as well. “Is there anyone that would look for you or that we need to notify about this?”

“No,” Ariana answered which caused Jim and the dwarves to frown. Family and clan were most important to dwarves.

While Jim had no family on Stormgion, he still loved his family on earth. Jim pushed the thoughts firmly into the back of his mind and listened while Bill asked a few more questions. A few other thoughts crossed his mind.

“I find it disconcerting that you just happened to have that form on you, Bill. Does this sort of thing happen a lot?”

“Aye. It happens often enough. We also keep slave collars and control rods on us as well,” Bill admitted. Jim frowned again. Bill pushed the pen and form to Jim. “You lot witness this as Jim signs the form and then sign too.”

“Jim, why didn’t you let Bill use the pen dad made?” Remi asked after they had all signed.

“I need to sell the seven old ones.”

“Jim, if you let me show this one to the commanders, I could probably get them to approve buying what you have.

“Alright. If it doesn’t come back or the guards don’t buy the pens, I have four people that probably know where you live.”

“You’re threatening a guard?” Ariana asked in shock. She then blushed and lowered her gaze as she realized what she asked.

“No. That’s not a threat. A threat would be me not selling him anymore sake and getting Max to cut him off.”

“Hey! There’s no need to play dirty,” Bill complained to laughter from his family. “How much do you want for the pens?”

“I’ll sell all seven to the guards for 20 silvers each. Normally they sell for 25 silvers each. I’ll throw in 7 inkpots too.”

“I’ll be back later this afternoon with their answer,” Bill said as he put away the signed document.

“Don’t I get a copy of that?” Jim asked.

“Blast!” Bill fumed as he pulled out another form.

*

“Ariana don’t be alarmed. It’s time for you to meet Kayja,” Jim said as he stood and climbed onto the porch.

Opening the wagon door, he called the aki wolf to him. Jim sat on the porch as Kayja came to his side and locked eyes on the newcomer. Ariana looked like she wanted to run but held her ground as Eloise placed a hand in the small of her back. Jim hopped down, picked the wolf up, and set her on the ground. Kayja walked up to the girl, who was still being held in place, sniffed her, and retreated to Jim.

“That went better than I thought it would,” Remi said.

“Aye.”

“Ok. Ariana, Kayja thinks you need a bath and honestly, so do I,” Jim told the thief in a calm and even voice. He pulled out 20 silvers and handed it to Eloise. She raised an eyebrow in question. “If you wouldn’t mind going with our new associate and see that she gets a bath and whatever else, hairbrush, small clothes, and such that she needs?”

“Aye. I don’t mind at all,” Eloise agreed with a smile.

“I’ll go with them,” Remi volunteered. “We’ll bring back your change too.”

Jim snapped his fingers and laid the dresses he had on the table. “Pick out one to wear after you get cleaned up.”

“Won’t this add to my debt?” Ariana asked bitterly as her eyes locked onto a light blue dress that was peeking out of the pile that matched her eyes.

“No. We’ll discuss the indenture and debt when you three get back,” Jim answered. He gave her what he hoped was a friendly smile. “Now, consider this an act of kindness or the first step in paying your debt if you wish, take a dress, and go.”

Ariana started to reach for the blue dress but was stopped by Eloise. The dwarf picked it up. “My hands are cleaner, so I’ll hold it for you.”

“Ok,” Ariana agreed. The women left.

“Jim?”

“Yeah?”

“I hope you’re not staring at our wives’ asses,” Rhett said.

“Wouldn’t dream of doing a thing with a married woman.”

“That’s not what I wanted to know.”

“I know,” Jim grinned.

“Payback for earlier?” Leo asked.

“Yeah,” Jim agreed to laughter from his guards.

“Jim, on a serious note, what you have done for the thief is good and bad,” Leo said once the laughter died.

“Aye,” Rhett agreed. “On the one hand you saved her from a life of slavery or dying young living on the streets.”

“On the other hand,” Leo took up what Rhett had begun, “for all intents and purposes you will own her for seven years or unless she can pay the debt before then.”

“I know. And that is only true if I don’t go ahead and forgive her debt.”

“You’re thinking of doing that?” Rhett asked.

“I am,” Jim answered. He reached down and rubbed his wolf. “Kayja approves of Ariana.”

“How can you be so sure?”

“Kayja approached her and backed off. She didn’t do that with you guys. And there is our blood bond. I get some sense of what her, Al, and Peggy feel in addition to the control I have over them. I think they pick up more of my feelings as well but can’t prove it.”

“Did you do it just to spare Ariana from slavery? You two had locked eyes for a while,” Leo asked.

“I don’t know. I’ll deny it if you tell anyone else, but I did lose myself in those baby blues briefly,” Jim admitted to more laughter.

“Still going to paint the wagon?”

“No. I’m going to make more popcorn. I only have half a bushel of potatoes, so I’ll save them for us until I can find more at a reasonable price,” Jim answered.

Chapter 47

“Who is with Eloise and Remi? Julia asked as she spotted the other women coming their way while her and Enoch were packing up for the day.

The stove was the last thing that needed enchanting. The sink and shower had hot and cold water. The sink would hold water unless the drain plug was removed. When that happened, the water would drain into a pipe and then into wherever the enchantment conjured the water from just as the shower drain did.

The toilet did not need flushing. Anything that fell past a few inches under the seat would be transported into the ether. Jim had paid another gold for Enoch to add two control runes, a water producing rune, and a warm air blowing rune to turn the toilet into a bidet. Having to use parchment, leaves, or pieces of cloth chaffed or did not work well.

Instead of the fresh air rune that Enoch had thought to use, Julia had come up with a rune that gave off a vanilla like orchid smell. Enoch was extremely proud of what his daughter had invented. He also couldn’t wait to profit off it even more.

“That is Ariana. She is Jim’s indentured servant,” Leo answered and then gave a summary of their morning adventure.

“You should have let the thief be put into slavery,” Enoch told Jim. “It’s the law.”

“The law also states I can do what I did, so I took that option instead of giving her over to a life of slavery.”

“Thieves should be enslaved.”

“We’ll just have to disagree. Ariana was homeless and stole to survive, it’s not like she is a hardened murderer.”

“You hope,” Julia quipped.

“That’s true too,” Jim grinned over the popcorn he was bagging.

“We’ll return at the same time in the morning and should finish the stove tomorrow,” Enoch informed him as they left without looking at Ariana.

“Some people don’t have your soft heart,” Rhett said.

“I know,” Jim agreed and looked up as he heard Eloise’s, Remi’s, and Ariana’s footsteps. Jim felt his mouth wanting to fall open but willed it not to.

Ariana’s hair had been cut so it fell just above her shoulders and washed. The tips of Ariana’s ears poked barely poked through her now black hair. Ariana’s blue eyes seemed to shine above her delicate button nose, high cheekbones, and full lips. She wore no makeup or jewelry. Jim knew makeup existed and that women wore it here. The blue dress covered her slender figure and seemed just a touch too big for her, but still hinted at her curves.

Leo did not keep his mouth closed. “Wow! Ariana sure did clean up well.”

“Aye,” Rhett agreed. “Who knew there was a beautiful girl under the dirt and grime coated thief?”

“I take it you three approve of Ariana’s new look,” Eloise said by way of greeting.

“Aye,” Rhett and Leo chorused.

“Jim?” Remi asked with a knowing smile.

“She is beautiful,” Jim admitted.

“Thank you,” Ariana blushed and told him after Remi poked her in the side and looked around nervously. She noticed him paying attention to her hair. “I washed the dye out of my hair.”

“Here is your change, Jim,” Remi said while tossing a small coin purse at Jim. He caught it. “There is 12 silvers and 40 coppers in the purse. It took a small bribe to get her into an inn for a bath.”

“Any problems?” Jim asked.

“None that your coin didn’t solve,” Eloise quipped. “Ariana was known as a thief by a number of inns.”

“Will that be an issue? I was planning on paying for a room for her,” Jim said.

“That’s probably not a good idea without someone staying with her,” Remi replied. “Ariana had a number of…admirers once she was clean and changed, including people that know she is a thief.”

“Ex thief,” Jim corrected. Remi nodded her head in acknowledgement of the rebuke.

“That means you can let her stay in a room with you tonight or in your wagon,” Rhett said.

“Or we can let her stay with us,” Remi offered.

“She would have to sleep on the floor,” Leo pointed out. The other merchants started to pack up for the day and Jim put the popcorn in storage while the dwarves discussed the sleeping arrangements. He had cooked 50 bags worth.

“Do I have a choice in all this?” Ariana asked which made Jim smile. He had wondered how long it would take before she started to question things.

“Of course, you have a choice,” Eloise replied.

“Speaking of choices, let’s sit and talk Ariana,” Jim said. “Then we can go get supper.”

“Supper is a good idea,” Abel said as he walked up. He pulled out a box of pens and offered them to Jim. “I made 20 today. Who is the girl?”

“Thanks,” Jim replied and put the pens into storage. He would have to consider dropping the price even with the increase in quality. Abel’s pay and the materials were already taken care of. Jim dismissed the thoughts. “This is Ariana, my indentured servant.”

“That is a story that should be told over mead,” Abel told the others. He then frowned. “Is she old enough to drink?”

“Yes dad. Or at least we think so,” Remi answered. “The orphanage thinks she is 19.”

“Oh. That’s fine then.”

“Let me feed Kayja and then have a talk with Ariana. After that, we can eat.”

*

“The way I see it, you have a few choices,” Jim began. Ariana nodded in understanding. “You can run away and return to the streets and your old way of life. That would probably end up with you in slavery or dead, which I have tried to prevent. Or you can work off the debt or seven years, whichever comes first.”

“That is only two choices. You said I had a few.”

“I did. The third choice is I forgive your debt.”

“You would do that?” Ariana asked in shock.

“Let me finish.”

“Ok.”

“After I forgive your debt, you can return to your old life, try to go it alone on the straight and narrow, or work for me as an employee. That means traveling away from Raven’s Rest,” Jim offered. Ariana appeared in thought which pleased Jim. “And yes, I would forgive your debt.”

“All I have ever known is this town.”

“Can you read, write, and do arithmetic?”

“Yes. The orphanage thought it would make us more appealing to any takers. Why do you ask?”

“That’s rare,” Abel interjected. “Most don’t want to go through the hassle.”

“Those are needed skills in my line of work. Do you have any other skills?”

“Those are not skills, Jim,” Rhett said.

“They are, even if you don’t level them. Now, let her answer.”

“Alright.”

*

Ariana smiled a little at the banter. This group of strangers were putting her at ease despite herself. And that was something to be wary of. Life had not been kind to the young woman. She wiped the smile from her face and answered Jim’s question.

“Pickpocketing, lockpicking, and the like.”

“Yeah. That’s good to know, but I don’t think we’ll have much use for them,” Jim replied. Ariana shrugged.

“What about sewing, mending, and cooking? I recall that was something taught to girls in orphanages,” the older dwarf asked. Ariana hung her head.

“Yes. I’m not good at them though.”

“That’s fine. I don’t know if we’ll need you to sew or mend anything. As for cooking, I’ll do most of it, but having help would be nice,” Jim said.

“If I agree to work for you, how much would you pay me?”

“Let’s see,” Jim started. He appeared to think it over quickly. “Let’s say a silver a week.”

The dwarves gasped as did Ariana as her eyes widened in shock.

“Jim, she is unskilled labor at best,” Abel said.

“I know. But I’m counting on Ariana learning the needed skills and helping me to make money,” the merchant replied. Ariana decided to accept Jim’s deal. A new male voice cut in before she could voice her acceptance.

“Good evening Jim. I hope I’m not interrupting a meeting. And I see you have guards of your own now.”

*

“Good evening Michael,” Jim greeted the other merchant as his guards and Ariana all stood and turned to face the man and his two guards. Jim recognized Carter, but not the second one. “Yeah, I hired some guards.”

“Who is this lovely creature?” Michael asked as his eyes roamed up and down Ariana. Jim did not answer nor did anyone else. As the silence started to get uncomfortable, Jim sighed and answered.

“This is Ariana, my indentured servant.”

“Would you sell her debt? Inspect shows she is a low-level thief; it can’t be over 3 gold. I’ll give you 12 gold for her,” Michael stated and licked his lips.

“She’s not merchandise nor a slave, so not for sale.”

“Indentured or wearing a collar, she is still a slave. And slaves are merchandise,” Michael retorted. He blanched a bit as he Inspected Jim’s guards. “And an elf too? I’ll give 15 gold for her.”

“Not happening. Ariana is a person and not for sale.”

“Jim, you paid for her to take on her debt. That means you bought her,” Michael explained slowly as if to a child. Two of the male dwarves eyed Samir and put their hands on their weapon hilts. The two females pulled the elf between them slowly while the older male dwarf merely looked bored. “You’ve also hired a decent level smith and have had your wagon enchanted. Good for you.”

“Why did you come here Michael?” Jim asked.

“I came by to speak with you and see if that apple flavored sake was ready. I wanted to trade one of the plain bottles I have for one of the apple flavored,” Michael replied. “But now I see you have something worth a lot more that I would like to have.”

“I’ve already said she is not for sale,” Jim said with steel entering in voice. Kajya stuck her head out of the wagon and growled as she sensed her master’s anger. “I’m out of the sake already. The new batch should be ready in a few days. If you don’t want to wait, then Max at the Blind Groundhog may be willing to sell one of the five he bought from me yesterday.”

“Pity. I will take my leave then,” Michael replied and spun on his heels. He quietly seethed. After they crossed the market, Samir spoke.

“Is he a problem now?”

“Almost. I must get his secrets first,” Michael answered. Carter wisely kept his mouth shut.

Chapter 48

“Well, that was fun,” Jim muttered. Kayja jumped off the porch after she spotted Ariana and approached the elf. Ariana extended a hand toward the wolf and Kayja licked it. Jim smiled while she laughed.

“Jim, that man in black is a killer,” Rhett informed his employer.

“Seriously?”

“Aye lad. It’s in his eyes. Plus Inspect shows him as a level 14 assassin,” Abel confirmed.

“That’s great. Do you think Michael has it in for me?” Jim asked. The dwarves exchanged looks as he asked, “Suggestions?”

“Never travel alone,” Leo quipped.

“Be serious honey,” Eloise chided her husband. “Jim knows that already.”

“I wouldn’t suggest drinking unless you were doing so in a locked room or your cabin,” Remi offered. “Drinking in public could lead to bar fights, which could lead to murder.”

“Beyond that, stick to what we were planning and follow our instructions,” Rhett concluded for the guards.

“Alright,” Jim agreed as he pulled out his copy of the receipt that Bill had given him earlier. “Why hasn’t Bill returned with my pen and paperwork?”

Abel laughed which caused the other dwarves to follow suit. Ariana looked slightly confused while she rubbed Kayja. Jim smiled again and shrugged.

“Let’s give him a few more minutes and then go get some dinner,” Abel suggested. “I’ll be. Your wolf is letting the lass rub her.”

“Kayja will not let you rub her?” Ariana asked.

“No lass. Up until now she has only allowed Jim to lay hands on her.”

“Animals are good judges of character,” Remi said.

“Aye”

“Here comes Bill finally,” Jim told the others. They turned to face the direction he was looking at.

“It’s about time too,” Leo said to nods of agreement.

“Where have you been Bill?” Eloise asked. “We were tired of waiting for you and about to go get dinner.”

“Sorry,” Bill replied. “All of the captains wanted to try the pen and used it until the ink ran out.”

“Do they want to buy?” Rhett asked.

“Aye,” Bill answered and handed Jim 1 gold and 40 silvers. Jim handed over the seven old pens and 7 inkpots. “What was that about a new version of the pens earlier?”

“Do you have my copy of the paperwork too?” Jim asked instead of answering.

“Aye. Here you go,” Bill answered and passed over the form. Jim pulled out the new pen he had been using and signed. The guards signed as well. Jim handed it to Bill for him to sign the form.

“That one is much nicer.”

“Yours for 15 silvers,” Jim replied.

“Do I get an inkpot too?”

“Two inkpots and a notebook,” Jim said. “You’ve been a big help to me.

“Deal,” Bill said before Jim could change his mind and gave him the money. Jim passed over the inkpots and a notebook as Bill pocketed the pen. Jim filled another pen with ink and updated the two parchments to show that Ariana’s debt was forgiven. The others signed it, except for Bill. “What are you doing Jim?”

“Giving Ariana her freedom.”

“You’re nuts, but a good fellow.”

“So, I’ve been told,” Jim agreed. Ariana smiled and handed the papers back to Jim. I have nothing to keep them in. Jim made a quick employment contract detailing Ariana’s pay of four silvers a month and that it was an open-ended employment able to be cancelled by either of them. Both signed. Jim then pulled out his small silver storage ring and handed it to her. “Use this for storage until we find something better.”

“I can’t take this!”

“Sure, you can,” Jim replied. He pulled out the small purse she had tried to steal and gave it to her as well. “Take that so people won’t go for the ring as quickly. I’ll keep my eye out for a wood ring similar to mine if things go well. That will reduce risk of theft too.”

“That is why I went for the coin purse.”

“Low hanging fruit and the ring looks worthless,” Leo agreed. Ariana took the items and bound the ring after some urging from the others.

“Thank you, Jim. I don’t think I’ll ever be able to repay you.”

“Ha. Just wait until you see how much work I make you do before you say that” Jim joked. He put Kayja back in the wagon and locked the door. “Are you staying with the guards tonight?”

“I guess,” Ariana hesitantly answered after getting nods from Eloise and Remi.

“Oh yeah, if you guys don’t mind, would you stop by a shop in the morning and get some more flour, a dozen eggs, and a gallon of milk for me?” Jim asked.

“Why?” Leo asked. “You want to make pancakes?”

“You guys know what pancakes are?”

“Well yeah. We’re not savages,” Remi added. “Some shops even sell maple syrup.”

Jim’s jaw dropped. “I have not seen pancakes since before I arrived in Praha.”

“You’ve been neglected,” Eloise joked.

“I’ve never had syrup,” Ariana said. “It’s for the rich.”

“We change that tomorrow if you guys will get the ingredients on the way here in the morning or go get it later.”

“We’ll get it,” Rhett promised. “I love a good stack of pancakes.”

“Good,” Abel said. “Let’s go eat before you starve an old man.”

Bill sighed. “All this talk of food is making me hungry too.”

*

Jim sat updating his inventory with a smile on his face after playing with Kayja, making use of his enchanted bathroom, and checking on his mules an hour and a half after the sun rose. The livery opened an hour after sunrise.

“Kayja, I really need to make some sales,” Jim told the wolf as she devoured some bacon and chicken. He checked his stats. “I also need to paint the wagon.”

{

Jim Merchant

Level: 4

Class: Merchant

Health: 140

Stamina: 140

Strength(6)

Endurance(6)

Dexterity(7)

Charisma(12)

Intelligence(10)

Wisdom(7)

Luck(10)

Skills: Inspect(7)

Bartering(3)

Harvesting(2)

Invention(4)

Strategy(1)

Tactics(1)

Gold:36

Silver:92

Copper:51

}

Bartering was the only skill that had leveled. Jim put away his notebook and dismissed his character sheet after Kayja perked up and looked at the door. A minute later, Jim heard approaching steps too. Jim stood and put his chair in his inventory. He knelt and rubbed the wolf. “I’m glad I have you here and don’t have your hearing, Kayja.”

“Open up Jim We’re ready for pancakes!” Leo yelled only to be slapped in the back of the head by Eloise. “What was that for?”

“We’re not in a barn.”

“Close enough,” Rhett defended Leo by pointing at the livery.

“He’s got you there darling,” Abel told his daughter as Jim opened the door. He turned to Jim. “What do you want me doing today? More pens?”

“Maybe. How much do you think they cost you to make?”

“I’m using a friend’s smithy at no charge and I’m getting two pens from every ingot. How much did you pay for an ingot?”

“Six silvers.”

“With me being on salary, that saves you as well.”

“You’ve cut my cost by four silvers per pen,” Jim said after checking his notebook. “I’ll be glad to pass those savings on to customers and make up the income on quantity.”

“Is that wise?” Ariana asked. “I’ve never heard of a merchant doing that.”

“Consider this lesson one of your training, or is it two? Doesn’t matter, but yes, it’s wise. More people will buy pens if I reduce the cost.”

“The more he sells, the more he makes,” Abel added.

“Our elder gets it,” Jim praised. “You would make a good merchant if you wanted to be one.”

“No thank you. I’ll pound metal all day and night before Haggling with customers,” Abel replied. “I’ll work on more pens today.”

“That works for me,” Jim said. He quickly updated the inventory list to display the new prices of 18 silvers for the pens with a cost of 6 silvers.

“Ariana, give Jim the ingredients so he can start cooking,” Remi said. “I know you’re hungry too.”

“Come on up Ariana,” Jim told his new assistant. “You can say hi to Kayja, take a look at the wagon, and help me cook.”

“Ok.”

Chapter 49

“That was good,” Rhett said while patting his belly. “Jim, if you were a woman, I would marry you.”

“Dumbass,” Remi called her husband while punching his shoulder. “You are not having a harem.”

“Sorry Rhett. You’re not my type,” Jim replied. “Besides, I don’t want Remi gutting me.”

“I wouldn’t do that,” Remi assured Jim with a smile. “Boiling you in acid is a more fitting punishment.”

“That’s enough of that nonsense,” Abel told the group. “The only thing this meal is missing is coffee.”

“I agree with Abel,” Jim said.

“Me too,” Leo added.

“I like this peppermint tea,” Eloise replied.

“Me too,” Ariana agreed.

“It’s not bad,” Abel conceded. “But it’s no match for a good, strong cup of coffee.”

“What’s the matter Jim?” Remi asked. “You keep looking around.”

“Enoch is late.”

“I’m sure they’ll be along in a while,” Elise said. “If they are not here by noon, we can check out his shop.”

“I’m glad he’s late,” Abel said. “I can put the new stove into Jim’s wagon.”

“What new stove?” Jim asked.

“This one,” Abel said and removed a stove from his ring. What sat on the ground beside the smith looked like a modern stainless steel earth stove instead of the more simplistic iron one Jaxon had built. “It’s the same size as your wood burning stove.”

“When did you build this?”

“I haven’t just been making pens. Eleanor, the smith that owns the smithy I’ve been using, and I did this yesterday after working out the design the day before. Eleanor made a prototype wood burning version that worked like a charm. You have three burners on the left and a solid grill on the right. We decided that would be better than using a pan since you fry quite a bit.”

“What about the grease?” Eloise asked.

“We built this little trap,” Abel answered and showed the little removable compartment and hole for the grease. “Should make it easier to clean.”

“It doesn’t have knobs like the one in the wagon does,” Ariana observed.

“That’s right. See those raised squares on the front? Those are where the control runes will go,” Abel explained. He opened the oven and pulled out a sliding rack. “Eleanor made this sliding rack to make it easier to take food out or put in the oven.”

“What do I owe you and Eleanor for this?” Jim asked. He was in awe.

“Nothing. You are already paying me and cooking some meals for me. Eleanor was so excited after breaking through to level 25 finally that she refused to talk about payment. Besides, she plans on building these to sell to folks here,” Abel answered.

“How did Eleanor and you test the prototype? Did you hire an enchanter?” Jim asked.

“Eleanor employs an enchanter since she got tired of always being at the whim of the freelance enchanters,” Eloise answered for her father. “Isla is not as good as Enoch and a few others, but she does good work.”

“Alright lads, we’re going to take out the old stove and put in this one,” Abel ordered Leo and Rhett. “Jim can break it in after the enchanters get done.”

*

As Abel, Leo, and Rhett were installing the new stove, Julia arrived without her father.

“Sorry I’m late. Michael Barrett arrived at the shop just as we were leaving. Him and dad are discussing an exclusivity contract,” Julia explained. Ariana looked up from playing with Kayja and shivered when she heard Michael’s name.

“It’s alright Ariana,” Remi whispered to her. “He can’t do anything to you legally and we won’t let anything happen otherwise.”

Jim sighed and decided to have the guards save Ariana instead of himself when he heard the whispered words if things turned violent. He could resurrect. The others couldn’t. Jim also had to decide to leave Raven’s Rest earlier than anticipated or not but would ask for opinions from the others before making it.

“I’m going to get started,” Julia informed them and climbed onto the porch. “Dad should be here before too long.”

“Do you think it’s coincidental that Barrett offers Enoch a contract after yesterday?” Eloise asked Jim.

“No and I don’t know what game Michael is playing either.”

“He wasn’t pleased when he left yesterday that is for sure,” Abel added. “I’m going to head to Eleanor’s and get started on those pens.”

“Before you go, I need a word with all of you,” Jim said. The dwarves and Ariana gathered before him off to the side of the wagon. “If things get violent, save Ariana.”

“Jim, you hired us to protect you,” Rhett stated.

“I know. You’ll still do that, but if you have to make a decision between saving me or her, save Ariana.”

“You can’t mean that,” Ariana said.

“I do. Do all of you believe in the gods?”

“Aye,” Abel answered for his kin. “But what does that have to do with you and their jobs?”

“I believe in the old elven gods,” Ariana admitted. “Though I don’t pray often.”

“I’ll explain more later, but I am touched by a god or powerful being. I can resurrect at the nearest temple if I’m killed.”

“Hogwash,” Rhett snorted.

“I’ve been killed at least 4 times so far. That’s why my level, stats, and skills don’t really matchup.”

“Can you prove it?” Leo asked.

“You can kill me.”

“I’d rather not be enslaved for murder. Thanks.”

Jim thought about his character sheet. “How many rank four merchants have you met with Bartering as a skill instead of Haggling?”

“None,” Abel answered. “Bartering is a skill that is received somewhere between levels 8 -10 depending on the person.”

“I have Bartering as a skill,” Jim replied. He read the skill description. The guards looked to Abel.

“Jim is telling the truth,” Abel said. Ariana and Jim gave him questioning looks. “Clan elders like myself have a truth-seeking skill.”

“That is something priestesses have,” Ariana commented.

“Aye. Dwarves do not have priestesses or priests. We have elders instead,” Eloise explained.

“Jim, I have decided not to work on pens today. I will build a totem and place it in or on the wagon.”

“Why? What will that do?”

“The totem will act as an altar, temple, or place of worship.”

“You think that will let me resurrect in the wagon instead of at another temple, don’t you?”

“I do.”

“Go for it,” Jim encouraged the elder. I should get a notice if it works.”

“Notice?” Rhett asked.

“You guys don’t get little messages when you level up or learn a new skill?”

“No. We have to visit a temple or totem and have a priestess or elder check our progress,” Eloise answered. “You get messages?”

“Ah. Yeah, I do.”

“You have more explaining to do,” Remi told Jim.

“I do. I promise I will later.”

“Enoch is coming,” Leo advised the group.

“Alright. I’m off then,” Abel announced and started walking away.

“What do you want me to do today?” Ariana asked Jim.

“I thought we could paint the wagon,” Jim answered.

“I don’t want to ruin my dress,” she complained.

“Here, have some pants and a shirt to work in,” Jim replied and held out a brown shirt and pants. He was wearing a pair of pants and shirt from his merchandise instead of his elven clothes.

“Fine,” Ariana replied taking the clothes. “Where can I change?”

“In the wagon,” Remi answered. Jim nodded in agreement and walked to intercept Enoch as Ariana went to the front of the wagon. The guards broke off into pairs to watch the area.

“Enoch! It’s good to see you this morning.”

“I apologize for being late. An unexpected business opportunity turned up as we were leaving the shop.”

“Yeah. Julia said Michael Barrett offered you a contract.”

“I wish that girl would learn to keep her mouth shut,” Enoch sighed. “Yes, he offered a genuinely nice contract. I didn’t accept though.”

“Why not, if you don’t mind me asking?”

“I don’t mind. He wanted me to start this morning and not finish your wagon. I couldn’t agree to that.”

“Thank you.”

“Why did they shut the wagon door?”

“Ariana and I are going to paint the outside of the wagon while you work on the stove. She is using the wagon to change.”

“Ah. Let’s give her a few minutes then.”

Chapter 50

The day passed without any major incidents and the wagon was painted with two coats. Enoch staring at Ariana and mumbling some rude comments before he and Julia finished their work an hour earlier was the worst that happened. The pair had left with barely saying goodbye after Jim tested the stove and oven. The pickpockets left the group alone thanks to Leo and Rhett patrolling around the wagon regularly. So did the crowd of gawkers that watched them paint.

Remi and Eloise ended up helping so it could be done in the single day. The underside, wheels, tongue, porch, and bottom chest were painted yellow. The back, front, sides, and top were painted green. Jim considered painting the words “Trader Jim’s” on the sides of the wagon but changed his mind. Perhaps he could get a sign made at some point.

“I think we did good,” Ariana told the group as she laid in the grass beside the wagon rubbing Kayja.

“We did indeed, Ari,” Jim replied.

“Ari?” she asked ignoring the sign comment.

“A nickname.”

“And it’s shorter than saying my name?” Ariana teased. While she still expected the other shoe to drop at some point, Ariana had grown more comfortable with Jim and the dwarves. Their friendly natures set her at ease in a way that she had never experience before. It thrilled and scared her at the same time.

“I like it,” Remi said.

“Me too,” Eloise added.

“Aye,” Rhett agreed.

“It rolls off the tongue,” Leo joked.

“I’ll accept it then.”

“You really didn’t have a choice,” Leo replied. “Nicknames are given by others, and you have no control over them.”

“If you say so.”

“I do,” Leo grinned. “Jim, you and the ladies did a good job of painting.”

“It does look nice,” Rhett agreed.

“Thanks.”

“I need a bath,” Remi announced.

“Me too,” Eloise and Ari chorused.

“You can take turns using the shower in the wagon,” Jim offered. “I don’t have a lot of soap. There are towels and washcloths in the top two drawers beside the bathroom.”

“We have soap,” Remi replied.

“I have been curious about how this shower works,” Eloise volunteered.

“Thanks Jim,” Remi said. “I’ll give it a try first since I’m older than Eloise by a year.”

“Yeah, yeah. Just go,” her sister teased as Remi stood.

“The hot water rune is on the left. The cold is on the right. The longer you hold them down, the hotter or colder the water gets. Press the middle rune to stop the water,” Jim advised. Remi nodded her understanding.

“You’ve already tried it out?” Ari asked.

“Yep. Did so this morning and it was great,” Jim answered to laughter.

*

“Jim, where do you want the totem?” Abel asked as rejoined the group a few minutes before sunset. “Good job painting the wagon too.”

“Would it be better inside or out?” Jim asked.

“If you want to put it inside, you’ll have to wait until Eloise and Ariana finish using the shower,” Remi advised her dad. Abel walked around the wagon and stopped at the back for a moment. He returned to the others.

“Jim, sitting the totem on the top of the rear window will work nicely since it is a steel frame.”

“Is there enough space for the totem between the top of the window and overhang?”

“Aye. Just enough. I’ll wait until the lasses are finished and then you boys can give an old man a boost up.”

“The rear window opens. We can open it and just stick an arm out.”

“Aye. That works better,” Abel agreed. “Now we wait.”

“Yeah,” Rhett agreed.

“I wanted your opinions on something,” Jim told the others.

“On what?” Eloise asked as she joined them. “That shower is a treasure by the way.”

“Yes, it is,” Remi agreed.

“Should we go ahead and leave Raven’s Rest?”

“You’re worried about Ariana and Barrett’s desire,” Leo guessed.

“Yep.”

“If we hurry and leave, he could send someone to fight us and attempt to take the girl,” Abel stated.

“We could advise Bill and see if he can delay any of Barrett’s people that attempt to leave the city,” Rhett said.

“Risky. The other merchants and their guild will not like that,” Remi retorted.

“They could pressure the mayor too,” Eloise added.

“There is a merchant’s guild? And why would this guild pressure the mayor?”

“Yes, there is a guild. No, you don’t have to join it,” Remi answered. “Mayor Goldsmith does not like the guild. Over the years they have tried to tighten the grip on who can trade or hire the better guild guards in Raven’s Rest and the rest of Praha.”

“Several nobles and wealthy merchants lead the guild, including the Barrett family. Michael Barrett’s uncle, Reginald, is the current chapter head in Raven’s Rest,” Eloise continued where her sister left off.

“I think I see where this is going. Bribes, corruption, and politics.”

“Yes.”

“So, we stay a few more days and then leave.” Jim concluded.

“How long until your sake is ready?” Rhett asked.

“Three days or so.”

“Then we wait that long and then leave after you sell some of it,” Rhett replied.

“Are we ready to get dinner?” Ari asked as she joined them brushing her wet hair.

“Almost,” Jim answered. “I need to check on the mules and feed Kayja. Abel wants to add a totem to the wagon too. And what took you so long?”

“A surprise,” Ari answered with a grin. “Hurry up and let’s go. I’m starved.”

“You are too skinny,” Eloise pointed out and poked Ariana in the ribs.

“What kind of surprise?”

“You’ll see.”

*

Shortly later, the dwarf and owl totem were in position on the rear window beneath the overhang. Abel dropped to his knees facing the totem and prayed. The elder stood.

“I’m finished. This should work,” Abel told the others. “Jim, put your wolf in the wagon and let’s go get dinner.”

“Alright,” Jim agreed. He ordered Kayja to return to the wagon. “Are you sure the totem will work as a temple of sorts?”

“As sure as I can be. Now get a move on.”

“Alright,” I’m going,” Jim grumbled. He walked around the wagon stopped. On the left of the door painted as large and neatly as possible trailing down was Trader in yellow. On the right was Jim’s. “What’s this?”

“Your sign,” Ari answered with a grin.

“That is not what I had in mind.”

“So. It works.”

“Only when people can see the front of the wagon,” Leo pointed out helpfully.

“Quiet you,” Eloise told her husband.

“Yes dear.”

“I like it,” Jim said after a moment spent climbing onto the porch. He made sure Kayja had water and shut her in the wagon, locking it. “Thank you.”

“You’re welcome,” Ari replied with a true smile. Jim jumped down and returned the smile. “You’re buying.”

“Why?”

“You haven’t paid me yet.”

Chapter 51

“How about this table and chairs?” Ariana asked. “The table is larger, but they are similar to what you have Jim.”

“Hmmm. You’re right. They are close,” Remi agreed. Rhett nodded in agreement. Jim had decided he needed another table to display merchandise on as well as to use when the group ate together. His table was a touch too small to be comfortable. This particular set was a trestle table with six matching chairs.

“Yeah, that will work nicely,” Jim replied. He turned to the carpenter. “How much for this set of chairs and table?”

“Three gold.”

“You wound me sir.”

“The price is the price.”

“This,” Jim produced his chair and table, “are of the same quality. I got them for 60 silvers.”

“Ok. Two gold,” the carpenter replied as Jim put his table and chair away.

“Would you accept a trade?”

“Depends on what you have,” the carpenter answered. “You’re the fellow with the cooking box that gave away food the other day, aren’t you?”

“That’s me. Jim Merchant is the name.”

“I’m Cotton Pinehurst,” the carpenter replied while shaking hands with Jim.

“Nice meeting you Cotton.”

“Likewise, Jim. Would you be willing to trade one of your contraptions?”

“They’re called grills and yes, I would,” Jim answered. “Do you have a large family?”

“I do. Why?”

“You’ll be needing a larger grill is why,” Jim answered while pulling one of the larger grills from inventory. “This is normally 75 silvers. The smaller sizes are normally 50.”

“That would be acceptable. So, now we’re talking 1 gold and 25 silvers.”

“Sir, how do you mark the wood to know where to cut it at?” Ariana asked. Jim knew where she was going and could kiss his assistant for it. Remi and Rhett grinned as they figured out why Ari asked too.

“Scratch it with a knife or nail. That generally doesn’t work too good though.”

“Mr Merchant has this wonderful device called a fountain pen. It would do a better job and leave a clear ink marker for you to follow.”

“You do?” Cotton asked Jim.

“I do,” Jim agreed while pulling his pen and notebook from inventory. He showed the carpenter how the two worked and let the man try it.

“How much for both of these?”

“These two are mine, and I don’t want to sell used merchandise if I can help it. The pens are 18 silvers each. Notebooks are 1 silver each. I’ll fill a new pen with ink and toss in two inkpots if you’ll agree to 1 gold for the table and chairs.”

“You drive a hard bargain Jim,” Cotton said after a moment.  “We have a deal.”

“Excellent,” Jim replied and shook hands with the carpenter again. He filled a pen, handed it, a notebook, two inkpots, and 1 gold to the carpenter. Ari put the table and chairs into her inventory.

“I had to make sure I knew how to work the ring,” she shrugged after catching Jim’s questioning look.

“Ok,” Jim replied.

“Thank you for your business and the trade. Please come again,” Cotton told the four as they left.

*

Ariana stopped walking and stared into a seamstress’ shop named Ruby’s Raiments. The shop had a large window and displayed in it was a flowing violet dress with half arm sleeves and a yellow scarf or sash around the waist. Remi stopped and touched Jim’s wrist, stopping him. The dress reminded Jim of the ones he had seen in movies and pictures of Romani or gypsies wearing. Rhett stopped and walked back to the three of them.

“Do you like that?” Jim asked.

“I do,” Ari answered. “I haven’t worn a dress since I was a small child until you gave me this one. I really like them more than pants.”

“Come on. Let’s see if she has it in your size or can take it up,” Jim urged.

“I can’t accept that.”

“Sure, you can. You can’t wear the same dress every day,” Jim replied as he pulled open the door. “Consider this a bonus for helping get the price of the table and chairs down to a reasonable price.”

Ariana entered the shop followed by a smiling Remi. Rhett held the door for Jim.

“I think I’m starting not to like you,” Rhett told him.

“Why?”

“Did you notice Remi smiling too?”

“Yeah.”

“She’ll want a dress or two as well.”

“I’ve always been told to keep your wife happy so you can stay happy.”

“There is truth in that statement,” Rhett agreed with a grin as they entered the shop.

*

“This dress looks good on you, dear,” Ruby proclaimed as she stepped back to admire her work on Ariana.

“It does,” Remi agreed as Ari glanced at her. Ari glanced at Rhett and then Jim. Both nodded in agreement. Remi grinned. “Miss Ruby, perhaps some other colors in the same style would look even better.”

“Remi, no,” Ariana protested.

“She is right dear,” the seamstress said. “Perhaps your companion should try on a dress or two as well?”

Rhett groaned as Remi’s grin turned into a smile. Jim grinned and went back to looking over his inventory. He looked up as Remi and Ariana disappeared into a side room to try on dresses.

“Miss Ruby?”

“Yes dear?”

“Would you be interested in trading for some common clothes? I have pants, shirts, and some dresses.”

“I don’t normally sell anything but what I make, but it has come to my attention having some premade merchandise can come in handy if someone is in a rush. Let’s see what you have while they change.”

*

Jim bought several dresses, skirts, and tops for Ariana. All were in what he considered the traditional Romani or gypsy style in several colors ranging from white, blue, red, yellow, and green. Some had floral prints. Others were just the color. All the dresses and skirts flowing and extended to the ankle and had matching scarfs, belts, or sashes. If a top was long sleeved, it was wide at the wrists. Most tops showed a little cleavage. A few had open places at the shoulders or were midriff baring.

Remi and Rhett only bought three dresses, since Remi and Eloise mostly wore their leathers, for 1 gold. Ruby’s work was exceptional, and she knew it. Everything was enchanted to fit correctly and stay clean. Jim paid 3 gold for Ariana’s clothing after trading a pen, an inkpot, notebook, a round grill, his last pound of salt, and all of the clothing he had. Ruby’s Bartering skill was higher than Jim’s and it showed. Both had delighted in the negotiations. Jim finally leveled again.

So did Inspect. As Ruby packaged their purchases, Jim updated his inventory and distributed his stat points. He dumped 3 points into Charisma and Wisdom each. Luck and Intelligence got 2 points each.

{

Jim Merchant

Level: 5

Class: Merchant

Health: 150

Stamina: 150

Strength(6)

Endurance(6)

Dexterity(7)

Charisma(15)

Intelligence(12)

Wisdom(10)

Luck(12)

Skills: Inspect(8)

Bartering(3)

Harvesting(2)

Invention(4)

Strategy(1)

Tactics(1)

Gold:32

Silver:92

Copper:51

}

*

As they neared the wagon, Jim’s system gave him a new notice. He checked it.

{Congratulations! You have discovered a totem. Totems can be used in place of an altar or temple. This means you can resurrect at the totem’s location.}

“Son of…” Jim trailed off.

“Jim, what is it?” Remi asked.

“The totem works just like Abel thought.”

“Should we test it by letting you die?” Rhett asked with a grin.

“No!” Ariana exclaimed.

“I agree with Ariana,” Jim deadpanned. “Besides, didn’t you read the small print? For every time I die, you have to pay me 1 gold.”

“That wasn’t in the contract.”

“Are you sure?” Jim asked sweetly.

“Is Rhett sure about what?” Leo asked.

“Jim says there is a clause in the contract that if he dies, we have to pay him a gold for each death,” Rhett answered. He pulled out his contract. So did Leo.

Chapter 52

“Morning guys,” Jim greeted his guards, blacksmith, and assistant. Leo and Rhett wouldn’t return the greeting while the others did. “What’s up with those two?”

“They’re mad with you,” Eloise answered.

“What did I do?”

“You know what you did,” Remi answered.

“No. Not really,” Jim replied playing dumb. He was fighting to keep a grin off his face. Ariana grinned while Abel laughed.

“That was a cruel trick,” Leo finally said.

“What trick?”

“There is no small print in the contracts!” Rhett hissed.

“Yeah. I thought you knew that” Jim replied while letting the grin blossom.

“They spent half the night going over the contract repeatedly,” Remi chuckled.

“You wouldn’t really add an undisclosed clause to a contract, would you?” Ari asked.

“Not to you guys or most people,” Jim answered. He shrugged. “Another merchant might be a different story though.”

“Jim, here is 60 pens,” Abel told the merchant and handed the pens to him.

“Thanks.”

“Do you need more?”

“No. I think this will be plenty for a while even with the reduced price.”

“What do you want me to work on now?”

“What do you think would be needed most?” Jim asked while updating the inventory. He took a pen, inkpot, and notebook off the list to give to Ariana so she could help keep things in order.

“Weapons and armor are always a good choice, but that is a slow process,” Abel replied.

Jim looked over his inventory. “I need more notebooks.”

“You want me to make some of those little rings?”

“Yeah. That works. I also need some wood covers like these,” Jim answered tapping the notebook. “Parchment is another need.”

“You need to sell some things too,” Ariana pointed out.

“Yeah, I do,” Jim agreed and gave her an inkpot, pen, and notebook.

“Why are you giving me these?”

“So, you can help keep things in order. You’ll need to copy my inventory list sometime today,” Jim explained. Ari nodded in understanding while putting the office supplies in her inventory.

“I know a carpenter that could make covers like those on your notebook,” Eloise said.

“Would you mind taking Ariana so she can buy on my behalf?” Jim asked. Ariana looked up from rubbing Kayja in alarm. Jim caught her expression. “You can do it. We’ll work on getting you the Haggling skill while I cook breakfast. I paid 10 coppers for a set of covers in Catfish Landing. They shouldn’t be much more than that here.”

“Steve is a good man and Sonya, his wife, won’t let him gouge people,” Elise replied.

“Ok,” Ari replied nervously. Remi squeezed her shoulder in support.

“I also need parchment cut in half with holes punched like the ones in the notebooks,” Jim said and slid a notebook across the table to Ari. Even without the Haggling skill, parchment should not cost over 2 coppers a sheet.”

“Alright. How many do you want of each?”

“As much as you can buy,” Jim grinned. “Each notebook has 50 half parchment sheets in it. It would be great if you could get at least 200 sheets of parchment. I would prefer 500 sheets.”

“That would be 2 gold in just parchment,” Ariana said.

“Yep,” Jim agreed. He gave her the gold, which disappeared into her ring. “Do your best to get a better deal.”

“Ok.”

“That should give us 20 notebooks worth of parchment.”

“You’ll need 20 sets of covers then which would be 2 silvers,” Ariana replied. Jim gave her 5 silvers. “Just in case?”

“Yeah.”

“Jim, I can make a cutter for the parchment. Eleanor has one at her smithy I can use to base the one I make on. That will take half the day or so. I’ll work on the rings after I get it done.”

“That leaves putting holes in the parchment.”

“I might have an idea on that too. Give me a piece of your parchment so I can line the holes up with the tool I make.”

“Alright,” Jim agreed. He carefully ripped a page out of his notebook and handed it to the elder.

“Now that you have that decided, what’s for breakfast?” Leo asked.

“Ever had grits before?”

“Never heard of them.”

“Grits are pretty much just crushed corn that is boiled.”

“Don’t know if I’ll like that or not,” Rhett stated.

“We’ll have sausage, eggs, and biscuits with them,” Jim replied and stood.

“That sounds better,” Leo said.

“Want me to help Jim?” Ariana asked.

“Yeah.”

*

“Jim, may I use your shower and toilet?” Ariana asked after helping him wash the dishes.

“Sure. There are two control runes for the toilet on the wall beside it. The one on the left is for washing your bottom when you’re done. The one on the right is for air that will dry you. Press them once to start and again to stop,” Jim answered and explained.

“You wash your backside and dry it?”

“Yeah. I refuse to imagine not cleaning myself after using the toilet.”

“Why not use a cloth, leaves, or parchment?”

“I don’t want to waste money on buying a lot of cloth or parchment. Leaves are too rough too,” Jim answered. Ariana gave him a look that suggested he was crazy. “Trust me. It works amazingly well, and you’ll never want to go the other way again. That said, it can be a bit of a strange feeling until you get used to it.”

“Ok. Will you shut the wagon door so I can have some privacy?”

“Of course,” Jim agreed as he walked out and shut the door.

A few minutes later Ariana squealed, “Jim!”

“I told you it takes a little getting used to,” Jim called back as he rubbed Kayja’s belly.

“Jim what is going on?” Eloise asked.

“Ariana had to use the toilet. Mine is enchanted to wash your backside and dry it with air.”

“Oh. That probably feels different.”

“It does until you get used to it,” Jim agreed.

*

“Are you sure you just want the two ice daggers?” Jim asked the adventurer. Remi and Rhett were taking turns sitting with Jim and patrolling around the wagon while the others went about their tasks and Jim sold merchandise. Kayja was back in the wagon laying in the open doorway.

“How much for your health potions again?”

“10 Silvers each. Same for the mana potions.”

“That’s the same price as the daggers.”

“I know. I price my wares as fairly as possible.”

“Alright. I’ll take three of health potions, a yew bow, a set of the elven armor, and the daggers,” the adventurer stated as she pulled the coin out of her storage ring.

“Do you need any arrows?” Jim asked as he took the coin and handed her the weapons and potions. He pulled out a bag of popcorn too.

“No thanks. I have better arrows than you have already.”

“Alright. Had to ask,” Jim replied with a smile. He offered the bag of popcorn. “This is a snack I make called popcorn. I’ll give this to you as a freebie for buying so much.”

“Thank you,” she replied and took the bag. The adventurer tried a piece. “That’s good. I’ll tell my friends about your stand,” she said before walking away.

“Good going Jim. We need to get you more variety though.”

“Yeah. I know. I need more goods and a wider variety. I can’t compete with the food prices since they either get it from other villages or grow it themselves.”

“Hi Mr Merchant,” William greeted Jim. “I have your 50 pounds of bison.”

“Thanks William, Jim replied as he took the meat. Jim paid the other 1 silver 25 coppers to the teen and gave another 2 coppers as a tip.

“Do you need any more meat?”

“No thanks.”

“Alright. You know where the shop is if you change your mind,” William said before taking off.

“You would be in trouble if storage devices didn’t keep things in stasis,” Rhett said as he walked up.

“No kidding. Thank goodness for small favors.”

“Burgers would make a nice lunch,” Rhett said.

“Rhett!” Remi exclaimed. “You can’t just say something like that to our boss.”

“It’s ok,” Jim replied. “He’s right. I have a lot of meat and maybe I’ll get a grill sale out of it.”

Chapter 53

“Jim, it took all of your coin to get the parchment and wood covers,” Ariana said with a sad tone to her voice.

“Well, that’s ok. You’ll get better at Haggling,” Jim replied while flipping a burger. He looked up and noticed the crestfallen look on Eloise’s face and the grin on Leo’s face behind her. Ariana had her head down. “Are you trying to play a trick on me?”

“Leo, you spoiled the surprise!” Eloise exclaimed, turned, and smacked him on the shoulder. Ariana looked up smiling.

“Sorry! I couldn’t help myself.”

“Tell me how good you did,” Jim suggested.

“I bought 550 sheets of parchment for the 2 gold and 30 sets of covers for 3 silvers,” Ari beamed. “Haggling leveled up too!”

“Well done!” Remi praised Ari. Rhett and Jim praised her as well.

“Here is your change,” Ariana said and started to get the coins from her inventory.

“Keep it. I want you to go and buy as many bushels of tomatoes as you can with it.”

“Why? So many others are selling them right now.”

“We’re going to use them to make ketchup,” Jim replied. He gave her 1 gold and 3 more silvers. “I also want garlic, paprika, and vinegar.”

“What’s ketchup?”

“It’s a type of sauce you put on burgers and fries,” Jim answered. He gave her 3 more silvers. “We need potatoes too.”

“Ok. I’ll go comb the market,” Ariana replied. She had put on a white blouse, with holes at the shoulders, a yellow skirt, and green sash earlier after her shower. Ari had hoped Jim would notice and compliment her. The merchant she bought the parchment from had hit on her to the point that Leo had to step in.

“Not now. Lunch is almost ready,” Jim pointed to the grill. “And Ari?”

“Yes?”

“You look lovely.”

“Thank you,” Ari replied with a huge smile.

*

“When are you going to ask Ari to go courting?” Remi asked Jim after the others left and the crowd that had gathered hoping for samples dispersed.

“Uh.”

“Don’t try to deny it Jim. We all saw how you were captivated the first time your eyes met,” Remi pushed on.

“And that was with her being filthy,” Rhett added. “It was just as bad once she was cleaned up, but you did a little better job of hiding your interest.”

“Et tu, Rhett?”

“What does that mean?” Rhett and Remi asked at the same time.

“It’s a question meaning you too in an old language from home,” Jim laughed.

“Thanks for the explanation. Now, stop dodging Remi’s question.”

“Ari is an employee. It wouldn’t be right for me to court her.”

“That’s crap,” Rhett retorted. “Remi and Eloise hired Leo and I when they needed extra muscle for a job. That’s how we met and started out.”

“She returns whatever spark you feel,” Remi added. “It’s in her eyes and smile when she looks at you.”

“I should get to know her better first,” Jim tried again.

“While true, don’t wait too long,” Remi cautioned. “You already know Barrett is interested in her. He won’t be the last.”

Jim looked up in alarm. “Do you think she would…”

“Go for a guy like Barrett?” Rhett asked. “Not him. But perhaps others if you wait too long.”

They fell silent as another adventurer walked up. “I understand you have mana potions for 10 silvers.”

“I do.”

“How many do you have?”

“Ten.”

“I’ll take them all if you give a discount.”

“They’re already as cheap as I can go. I’ll toss in a bag of popcorn though.”

“My friend had a bag of that, and it was good. I’ll take the deal.”

“Alright,” Jim replied and handed over the potions and bag of popcorn after taking the gold coin from the adventurer. “Do you want any health potions too?”

“No,” the adventurer replied munching on some popcorn. “I’m a mage and have healing spells. Good day to you.”

“Good day,” Jim replied to the mage’s back as he walked off. Jim turned back to his guards. “Thanks for the advice and encouragement guys.”

“Don’t mention it,” Remi replied.

“A bonus or tip is all the thanks we need,” Rhett added.

“A tip huh?”

“Yeah.”

“Don’t play in traffic,” Jim grinned.

“Jim, stop picking on my husband,” Remi laughed while Rhett’s grin turned into a frown.

“Alright. Sorry Rhett, but that was too easy not to take.”

“Yeah, I stepped into it,” the guard agreed with a smile.

“Do either of you know an alchemist?”

“No. Why?”

“I just decided I need more potions. I also just remembered that a friend recommended I buy some Stallion’s Blood and Maiden’s Milk to sell in the smaller villages.”

“Are you sure you don’t want those two potions for you and Ariana?” Rhett asked.

“I... You got me.”

“And I got you good too,” Rhett chuckled.

*

“We’re back with the tomatoes, potatoes, paprika, garlic, and vinegar,” Ari told Jim as her, Eloise, and Leo returned.

“Awesome. How much did you get?”

“Ten pounds of garlic, five of paprika, and 15 bottles of vinegar for a silver,” Aria stated with a smile. “I got 40 bushels of potatoes for 2 silvers and 30 bushels of tomatoes for 2 silvers too.”

“Good going,” Jim smiled back. “I need one more thing.”

“Leo groaned.”

“I’ll go and you guys can stay here.”

“What do you need?” Ari asked.

“Salt. I sold all I had without thinking about it.”

“Salt is a gold a pound no matter where you buy it,” Leo replied.

“I know.”

“A merchant about halfway to the other end of the market has salt,” Eloise stated.

“Alright. You guys rest your feet and I’ll go buy some,” Jim replied.

“I’ll go with you,” Rhett said. Jim nodded in agreement and the two walked off.

“I’m going to step behind the livery for a moment,” Leo told the others and walked away.

“Ariana, Jim really likes you,” Remi told the elf just as soon as the ladies were alone. Eloise grinned while Ari looked a little unsure.

“No, he doesn’t.”

“He does,” Eloise said agreeing with her sister’s opinion. “He steals glances at you just as often as you do him.”

“I don’t.”

“You do and we’ve caught you both.”

“Really?”

“Yes,” Eloise answered. “It’s obvious to us that there is a spark between you two.”

“You two are almost as bad as kids,” Remi joked.

“You should offer to help Jim make the ketchup tonight,” Leo suggested as he returned.

“That’s actually a good idea and would give you two time to get to know each other better,” Eloise agreed. “I knew I didn’t marry you just for your good looks.”

Remi pulled Ariana into a side hug. “They’re right.”

“Are you sure?”

“We are,” Eloise answered as her kin nodded in agreement.

“Ok. I’ll offer to help,” Ariana said nervously after thinking about it for a moment. A few minutes later, Rhett and a teary-eyed Jim returned.

“What’s wrong with Jim?” a concerned Ariana asked.

“Nothing,” Rhett answered. After buying 5 pounds of salt, he saw a farmer selling milk and cheese. Jim didn’t even attempt to Barter or Haggle with the man. He paid 10 silvers for 5 pounds of cheese and 5 gallons of milk and been like this ever since.”

“Do you have any idea what I can cook with cheese? We can have real omelets and cheese biscuits now.”

“Ariana, are you sure you still want to do what you said?” Eloise asked.

“I am.”

“Just making sure after this display of affection for cheese.”

Chapter 54

“Eloise, and the others have gone,” Ariana informed Jim. “Why did you have us go back out for flour, more eggs, and basil? And are we going to make ketchup?”

“We will make ketchup after dinner. I had you guys go back out so I could make a surprise for you. Hopefully, it’ll be as good as I think it will.”

“Do you need some help?”

“Ah, why not?” Jim replied as he added eggs and water to the flour in the bowl on the pullout table. Kayja watched her people from the bed.

“What do you want me to do?”

“Take this pot, fill it halfway with water, and place it on the back burner on the stove. Then wash ten tomatoes, cut them into quarters, and add to the pot. Here is a knife,” Jim instructed while holding out a knife.

“Ok. Anything else?” Ari asked as she took the knife.

“Tell me about your past?”

“There isn’t much to it. I grew up in an orphanage,” she replied as she washed tomatoes in the sink. “When my body started developing as I got older, it became harder to avoid certain older boys. I ran away two years ago and started living on the streets. Even though I’m not short, I’m on the small side and was able to hide in places most couldn’t. That enabled me to avoid capture by some of the gangs that roam the rougher parts of Raven’s Rest, the guards, and pleasure house recruiters.”

Jim noticed the last was said with a lot of disdain. He decided not to ask about that. “How did you become a thief?”

“I just started snatching food from stalls and windows if a pie or the like was sitting out to cool,” Ari shrugged as she started cutting up the tomatoes. “Some of the gangs use small kids as pickpockets in other areas of the city. The guards keep them away from here mostly. A couple of them taught me how to lift coin purses after I helped them escape the guards or provided a distraction or two.”

Jim kept kneading the ball of dough he had made. “And you were able to survive until you tried to rob me.”

“Yeah,” Ariana replied with a grin. “Now what do I do?”

“Take the large spoon out of the top drawer beside the cold box and mash the tomatoes as much as you can. Once you are done with that, press the leftmost control rune on the stove to activate the back burner.”

“Ok. Is this how you make ketchup?”

“Not really. You’re making a type of sauce that is similar though,” Jim answered. A few minutes later he was rolling out the dough.

“Do I need to do anything else?”

“Add a little salt, and a pinch of garlic and basil.”

“Should I use a spoon to measure the salt?”

“Yeah. Use about a half of a spoonful.”

“Not the big spoon I hope,” Ariana replied with a smile.

“Yeah, not it,” Jim agreed with a matching smile. Ariana finished what she was doing and turned to look at Jim.

“I’m glad you didn’t want that spoon used. I’m not a big salt eater.”

“Yeah,” Jim agreed after looking down at his flour covered shirt. “Will you fill that small pot halfway with water and hand it to me please?”

“Sure. Will you tell me how you know the things you know?” Ariana asked. “I’ve seen a lot of merchants from all over this Praha and other kingdoms come through. None of them have things like your grills, pens, and stoves.”

“Do you remember what I was saying about being touched by a powerful being or god and able to resurrect?”

“Yes. That isn’t the sort of thing one forgets when it ends up being true.”

“Right. Well, I’m from another world,” Jim replied with honesty as he added the pasta he had made to the pot. He then explained his recent past to her.

“You’re joking?”

“Afraid not,” Jim answered. Ari had moved to sit on the left bench so Jim could get to the stove. He placed the pot on the stove and turned on the burner. He turned to face Ariana. Their eyes met. “I promise I will never lie to you. I don’t think it would be good for our relationship.”

“We have a relationship?”

“Yeah,” Jim replied as he stirred the pots.

“Something more than you as my employer?” Ari asked with a catch in her voice.

“I hope so,” Jim answered as he started making more dough for bread.

“So do I.”

*

“Jim, can we stop for the night?” Ari yawned. “It’s almost midnight and I’ve been feeling sluggish since the good dinner we had.”

“I didn’t realize it was so late,” Jim replied checking the time. They had succeeded in making 20 bottles of ketchup and 50 bags of chips. “Let’s clean up and let Kayja out one last time.”

“I’ll let Kayja out if you’ll start cleaning up,” Ariana offered with a big smile.

“I’m supposed to be the boss,” Jim griped.

“You are. You can boss those dishes,” Ari replied while squeezing past him. Both touched the other on hips and shoulders as she passed. The touching wasn’t necessary, but both did it anyway. Kayja followed the elf to the door and exited after Ari opened it.

“I could use a shower.”

“Me too,” Ariana agreed and blushed. “That might have to wait until morning though.”

“Yeah,” Jim drawled out. “That’s probably the best idea.”

Kayja returned a moment later and Ariana shut the door. The enchanted lock engaged. “What do you need me to help with?”

“My hands are already wet, so will you dry?” Jim asked. Ari moved past him once again touching him on the hip, back, and shoulder as she passed.

“Sure,” she answered with a smile. A few minutes later and they were finished. “I just thought of a problem.”

Jim turned to face her. “What problem?”

“Where do I sleep?”

“We could share the bed,” Jim offered. Ariana shook her head no. “Or one of us could sleep on the bed and the other use the bedroll and sleep on the floor.”

“It’s your wagon and you’re the boss, I can sleep on the floor,” Ari replied while staring into his eyes.

“My mother would be upset if she ever found out that I let a woman sleep on the floor,” Jim said without breaking eye contact. They were standing toe to toe now. Jim hadn’t realized either of them had moved.

“It’s a good thing she’s on another planet then and won’t find out,” Ariana quipped with a grin and breaking eye contact.

She started to turn. Jim reached out and pulled her back to facing him. He leaned in and kissed her gently. Ariana stood frozen for a few seconds and then gave into her desire and returned the kiss. The kiss ended a moment later. Neither broke eye contact after they pulled apart.

“I’m sorry if I went too far,” Jim said.

“I didn’t mean for that to happen,” Aria said at the same time. “I wanted it though.”

“So did I,” Jim agreed. “The dwarves are correct. There is something between us.”

“Yeah. I don’t want to go too fast, Jim.”

“That’s ok. I don’t want to push you into doing something you aren’t comfortable with. Was the kiss too far too fast?”

“No,” Ariana answered with a smile.

“Ok. Take my bed.”

“No. You take the bed. I’m used to sleeping rough and I’ll need to get used to a bedroll for when we are traveling.”

“About that. You are what we call a city girl where I’m from.”

“I can sleep in a tent,” Ariana interrupted.

“I didn’t say you couldn’t. I’m just saying that you can sleep in the wagon instead. We can take turns sleeping on the bed.”

“You don’t want me out of your sight, do you?” Ariana asked with a grin.

“Maybe,” Jim replied with a grin of his own.

“Ok. I’ll accept your offer.”

“Good. Ladies first, so you get the bed.”

“Alright,” Ari agreed. She was incredibly happy. She hadn’t slept on a bed in years. I need to use the toilet.”

“Me too. I need to get a curtain or something for it,” Jim replied. “We’ll just have to turn our backs while the other uses it for now.”

“Ok. Don’t peek,” Ariana warned as she slipped past him.

Chapter 55

Jim groaned as he stood up. Sleeping in the bedroll on the floor made him appreciate his bed that much more. Still, he was happy seeing Ariana curled up with Kayja in the bed. The wolf lifted her head and looked at him but didn’t move otherwise. Jim went into the bathroom to take care of personal business. He emerged a few minutes later adding more clothes to his list of needs while he popped a peppermint leaf into his mouth. Wearing the same two sets every other day was getting old even if they were enchanted and extremely comfortable. Jim opened the door and let Kayja out.

Ariana sat up, stretched, and yawned. She smiled at Jim. “Good morning. That was the best night’s sleep I’ve had in a long time.”

“Good morning. I’m glad you slept well,” Jim replied as she scooted out of bed. She started to make the bed. “You don’t have to do that.”

“I want to though.”

“Kayja will probably mess it up later like she usually does. I had thought she would have preferred the rug, but I was wrong,” Jim said as he tried not to stare at Ari’s backside. He was thankful that Kayja returned. He turned his attention to his pet and scratched her behind the ears. “Speaking of the devil, she is back.”

“She’s not a devil, Kayja is a little angel,” Ariana all but cooed as she finished making the bed and turned to see the wolf. She lavished attention on the wolf for a few minutes. “Jim, would you mind stepping out for a few minutes so I can use the bathroom?”

“Ah, sure. Come on Kayja. Keep me company on the porch,” Jim agreed. He waited a few seconds so Ariana would stand. As she did, Jim pulled her in for a gentle kiss.

“That was nice,” Ariana smiled. “But why is your breath minty?”

“Peppermint leaves,” Jim answered. He held one up for her. “Chew them, but don’t swallow.

“Thanks.”

“You’re welcome,” Jim replied as he walked out the door. Kayja followed him out.

*

“Morning Jim.”

“Morning guys,” Jim returned the greeting of his smith and guards.

“How was your night?” Leo asked with a wink.

“Fine.”

“Where’s Ariana?” Remi asked.

“Taking a shower, I think.”

“Did you treat her well?” Eloise asked.

“Yes.”

“You had better,” Remi warned with a grin on her face.

“You guys don’t trust me?” Jim asked mock seriously.

“We barely know you,” Rhett replied.

“You wound me,” Jim said clutching at his chest.

“Enough of your playing. Are you cooking breakfast lad?”

“Yes elder. I’ll cook breakfast once Ari gets done.”

“What are we having?” Abel asked.

“I’m thinking smoke sausage, rice, and cheese biscuits.”

“What are cheese biscuits?” Leo asked.

“Biscuits with cheese cooked inside them.”

“Oh. That sounds good.”

“They are.”

“Mind if we check on Ari?” Remi asked.

“Nope. Feel free,” Jim replied and unlocking the door. He hoped down from the porch and took Kayja down while the two women climbed up. They knocked, let Ariana know they were coming in, and entered the wagon.

“They’re going to make sure you didn’t do anything to upset the lass,” Abel warned Jim. “They have become quite fond of her.”

“I understand,” Jim shrugged. “I would check on a friend too. Speaking of checking on friends, I need to check on the mules. Who wants to come with me?”

*

“How was your night?” Eloise asked Ariana as the elf toweled off.

“Good.”

“You have to give us more than that,” Remi said as Ariana pulled out a red dress. “Wear the light blue skirt, red sash, and white shoulder less top.”

“Why would I wear that?”

“Jim will like it,” Eloise answered for her sister.

“You did say you had a good night.”

“Ok,” Ariana agreed while pulling out the appropriate clothing and changing into it. She started to put her hair in a ponytail.

“Leave your hair down,” Remi suggested. Ari sighed, but complied.

“Now, sit and tell us all about last night,” Eloise urged.

“I’ll brush your hair while you do so,” Remi offered.

“Ok,” Ari replied.

*

Jim had recruited Abel, Rhett, and Leo to help him make notebooks while they waited.

“I can’t believe you talked us into helping with this,” Leo grumbled.

“It’s monotonous,” Rhett complained.

“So is guarding or smithing,” Abel replied as he finished another notebook. Kayja looked to the wagon door before it opened.

“It’s about time,” Leo said. “I’m ready to eat.”

Jim and the others turned to the wagon door. Jim’s eyes widened in appreciation of how Ariana looked. She smiled as she had noticed the change in his expression. Jim returned the smile as he stood. Remi and Eloise exited the wagon and hopped down.

“Jim, we’ll pick up where you left off so you can start cooking,” Remi said.

“And we’ll make sure dad, and our spouses don’t slack off,” Eloise assured the merchant.

“Alright,” Jim agreed. He turned to his wolf. “Kayja, are you coming with me?”

In answer, the wolf jumped onto the porch and dashed around Ari and into the wagon.

“You spoil that aki wolf,” Abel said.

“I know. Kayja is my baby.”

*

“We have a deal,” the young adventurer told Ariana. The young man was trying not to stare and utterly failing. Jim smiled as he finished assembling the last notebook. Ariana’s beauty was attracting attention as Jim knew it would. Sex sells after all, but if this was a sign of things to come, she was a natural salesperson. The adventurer had only wanted the sword and armor. Ariana had talked him into buying 3 health potions, a bow, and 50 arrows with ease.

“That will be 1 gold, 2 silvers, and 50 coppers total,” Ariana told the man. He paid and she handed over the merchandise.

“Would you like to go to dinner with me?” he asked.

“I’m afraid not. We won’t be here for much longer,” Ariana answered.

“I’m an adventurer. We travel too. Perhaps my group could offer to help protect your wagon.”

“The Merchants have guards,” Rhett told the adventurer. He gestured to Leo and their wives. “And that is us.”

“All merchants have guards. That is to be expected.”

“Nay lad. Merchant is our employers’ last name,” Leo added. The man caught the plural use of employers. The crestfallen look on his face was instantaneous.

“Oh. Sorry,” he muttered and left.

“Did you have to lie?” Remi asked.

“He wasn’t taking Ariana’s hints,” Leo shrugged.

“Good job Ariana. Good job Rhett and Leo,” Jim praised them.

“Here Jim,” Ariana said while giving Jim the coin.

“You could keep it in case you need to give change.”

“That’s what you’re here for since you’re making me do the selling.”

“I’m not making you,” Jim retorted. “I’m paying you to make sales. There’s a difference.”

“Yeah, yeah.”

“Hold the fort down. I’m going to check on the sake,” Jim advised the others as he left the table.

*

“That’s 40 bottles of regular sake and 40 of the apple flavored,” Jim told the others when he rejoined them.

“Are you going to sell them to Max?” Leo asked.

“Why would I do that?”

“He’s sold all of the bottles he bought from you,” Rhett answered.

“Oh. I won’t sell all of it to him. I need to keep at least half on hand to sell to others.”

“Should we let him know you have more ready?” Leo asked. “I’ll go if needed.”

“No, you won’t,” Eloise replied. “You’re staying right here. Same goes for you too, Rhett.”

“Why not pay a copper to an urchin to go tell Max that Jim has sake ready?” Ariana asked.

“You can’t trust them to do the job,” Rhett said.

“Sure, you can. You just have to make sure they know to come back with Max or return with a note from him if they want to get paid,” Ariana replied. She spotted a young boy edging around the crowd avoiding the guards. “Do you mind Jim?”

“Not at all,” he answered in amusement. For some reason Jim found this whole exchange funny.

“I know that boy,” Ariana said while pointing the child out. “Watch your coin purses, he is a pickpocket.”

“Can you trust him?”

“Yeah.”

“Call him over then,” Jim replied.

“Peter! Peter, come here,” Ari called out to the boy. He looked around and spotted Ariana waving at him through a gap in the crowd. He hesitantly made his way over to Jim’s wagon.

“Ariana?”

“Yes, it’s me,” Ari answered.

“You’re all cleaned up and wearing fancy clothes!”

“It’s not that fancy.”

“If you say so. What are you doing with this merchant?”

“This is Jim,” Ariana gestured to Jim. “He is my employer.”

“Oh. What do you want?”

“Want to earn a copper or two?”

“Yeah. What do I have to do?”

“Go to the Blind Groundhog and tell Max, the owner, that Jim has more sake ready. Return with Max or a note from him to get paid.”

“Alright. I’ll be back in a little while,” Peter answered after thinking it over. He took off and disappeared through the crowd.

“He’ll be back before you know it,” Ariana told the others.

“It’s getting close to lunch,” Leo observed. “What are we having?”

“Grilled chicken and baked potatoes?” Jim asked.

“Sounds good,” Eloise agreed for the others.

“Want me to help you, Jim?” Ariana asked.

“If you want to.”

“I do.”

“Come on then,” Jim replied and offered her his hand from the porch. Ari smiled as she took it.

Chapter 56

“Jim, I didn’t enjoy that,” Ariana told him as she washed some potatoes. “It felt wrong.”

“What felt wrong?”

“Selling.”

“You did very well and upsold that adventurer on potions, a bow, and arrows when all he had wanted was the armor and sword.”

“It felt like I was taking advantage of him or at least his interest in me.”

“I can see that. I’ve known others that felt the same way.”

“Could I help in other ways instead of selling?”

“Like what? Handling merchandise, running errands, and the like?” Jim asked as he finished prepping the chicken.

“Remi and Eloise mentioned that you were looking for an alchemist,” Ari began.

“Didn’t you say you didn’t have those kinds of skills?” Jim asked interrupting her.

“I was getting to that,” Ariana replied.

“Sorry. Go ahead.”

“I know an alchemist who has skill books that she promised to sell to me if I could ever save up the money needed to buy them.”

“Is alchemy an interest of yours?”

“Yes. I always liked the idea of making potions.”

“Trying to find a way to turn a cheap metal into gold have anything to do with that interest?” Jim asked with a smile.

“Maybe,” Ari hedged with a smile of her own. “But seriously, I know nettle is a good plant for tinctures. It can also be used as a tea to help with seasonal colds. Nettle is also good in soup. Dandelions can be eaten, made into a wine, boiled and used as a coffee substitute.”

“Jim interrupted again. “Really? Nobody told me this! I miss coffee and haven’t found anyone selling it yet.”

Ari smiled. “Yes, really. Dandelions are also good for digestion. Calendula is a flower that has healing properties. It’s often used in potions.”

“You’ve convinced me.”

“I have?”

“Yes. How much does this alchemist want for the skill books?”

“At least 10 gold,” Ariana replied with a wince. “I know it’s a lot.”

“It is. Should be a good investment though.”

“What makes you say that?”

“Two reasons. First, I’ll have someone supplying me with potions to sell,” Jim answered.

“And the other reason?”

“It makes you happy,” Jim answered with a smile.

“You’re not worried I would leave you?” Ari asked with a grin.

“Not anymore.”

“Oh?”

“It’s in your eyes. You want to see how far our attraction to each other goes just as much as I do,” Jim answered. He pulled Ariana into a kiss.

“That is not the kind of cooking you two are supposed to be doing, “Leo said interrupting the kiss.

“Thanks Leo. We’re working on that.”

“That’s not what I would call it,” the guard quipped.

“See the chicken and potatoes,” Jim replied pointing at the food on the table behind them.

“Nope. All I see are two people that can’t keep their hands off each other.”

“Ari can put the potatoes on a pan and put them in the oven. I’ll take the chicken out to the grill.”

“Good. I’m feeling faint from hunger and might pass out,” Leo replied and fanned his face.

“You’ll pass out from something alright, and it won’t be hunger,” Eloise threatened her husband which made him pale slightly. Ariana and Jim laughed.

*

“Pearl’s Potions,” Jim read the sign aloud an hour later. Max had come with Peter to buy more sake. Jim had sold the tavern owner half of what he had and paid the boy two coppers and given him lunch and two bags of chips. That had pleased Ariana greatly. “I do love how nobody feels the need for more than basic signs here.”

“There can be more done with signs?” Ariana asked.

“Oh yes. But there is something to be said for keeping things simple.”

“Are you sure about this Jim?” Rhett asked looking around. The shop was located past the butchers and near the tanners. “This isn’t the best part of Raven’s Rest.”

“What gave it away? The smell?” Ariana asked with a grin.

“I was thinking more of the eyes watching from the alleys,” Rhett answered. But now that you mentioned the smell, there is that too.”

“It’s a good thing I have two stout guards and Kayja with us then,” Jim said. “Let’s head inside.”

Remi held the door open for them. An older feminine voice called out as soon as Ariana stepped into the shop.

“I’m Pearl. How can I help you?”

“Mrs. Pearl, it’s me,” Ariana replied.

“Oh. Ariana. What happened to you girl? You look much different than the young thief that crossed my path a year ago,” the alchemist said after looking Ariana over.

“Thank you I think.”

“Aye. It was a compliment,” the elderly elf replied. “Who are these others?”

“This is Jim Merchant, Rhett, and his wife Remi. They are Jim’s…” Ari started to answer only to be interrupted by Jim’s fake cough. “I mean our guards. The aki wolf is Jim’s companion, Kayja.”

“That beast better not mess up my floor.”

“She won’t,” Jim assured the alchemist. “Kayja has proven to be easily housebroken.”

“Housebroken?”

“Trained to only do her…ah, business outside and not inside structures.”

“You’ll pay and clean up any mess she makes,” Pearl warned. Jim nodded in agreement. “Are you here for potions?”

“We came to get the skill books you had said you would sell me,” Ariana answered.

“I have two skill books and one recipe book. I want 15 gold for all three.”

“I’ll pay 8 gold and throw in a fountain pen, inkpot, and notebook,” Jim countered.

“What is a fountain pen and notebook?”

“These,” Ariana answered and showed the office supplies to the elderly elf.

“Those would be helpful. 12 gold for all three books if you include those.”

“That is too much. I’ll add a bottle of both flavors of sake if you drop the price to 9 gold.”

“What is sake?”

“A rice wine,” Rhett answered. “It’s quite good.”

“I can go 11 gold if you include your other wares Merchant.”

“Make it 10 and we have a deal,” Jim countered and leaned into his skill and charisma as much as possible. Least, he hoped he was.

“Fine! We have a deal,” Let me get the books,” Pearl said and walked into her back room.

“I’ve never heard of anyone Haggling her down like that before,” Ariana told Jim.

“I didn’t think she would go that far,” Jim admitted before falling silent as Pearl returned. They exchanged money and merchandise. Jim inspected the books.

{Skill Book: Basic Alchemy Value 3 Gold}

{Skill Book: Advanced Alchemy Value 8 Gold}

Jim smiled. He barely won the Bartering. That said, a win was a win.

“Don’t use the books until you are somewhere that you can rest. The knowledge will knock you on your ass,” Pearl warned Ariana. “Ingredients will be something you have to get on your own. I won’t sell mine.”

“Ok,” Ariana replied.

“Do you need a mortar and pestle?”

“I do.”

“Five silvers and not a copper less,” Pearl replied sitting a set on the counter. Jim paid without arguing. “Thank you for your business.”

“Thank you,” Ariana replied with a smile as they turned to leave. Pearl’s expression softened.

“Good luck Ariana. You just might need it with that lot,” Pearl cackled as they left the shop.

“How do we get ingredients?” Jim asked outside the shop.

“Post a notice at the adventurer’s guild or on notice boards,” Remi informed him. “Low level adventurers are always looking for quick and easy tasks to complete to make money.”

“Reminds me of home,” Jim laughed.

Chapter 57

“I can’t wait to use these skill books!” Ariana gushed as they returned to the wagon.

“Why don’t you go into the wagon and use them?” Jim offered. “I’ll try to sell some more merchandise until the market starts shutting down for the day.”

“Thank you!” Ariana excitedly replied. Kayja growled slightly.

“Hello Jim. I’ve been waiting for you,” a male voice called out. Jim groaned while Ariana stiffened as both recognized the voice.

Instead of answering immediately, Jim took Ariana’s left hand in his left hand, placed his right in the small of her back, and guided her to the wagon. He turned back to Michael Barrett and caught the other man’s eyes narrow slightly.

“Good afternoon Michael. Here to buy something?” Jim finally addressed the other merchant. Jim turned back to Ariana and helped her up onto the porch. Jim leaned across and touched the door. “It’s unlocked.”

Kayja followed Ariana in. She shut the door without saying anything else. Jim turned back to Michael.

“You should really sell that girl to me.”

“Same answer as before, no. If there is nothing else, I must reopen my stand,” Jim replied as he pulled the trestle table from inventory. Jim draped a blue tablecloth he had picked up on the way back onto the table and started setting out merchandise on it.

“Is this a new version of your pen?” Michael asked as he picked one of the fountain pens up and examined it. “It seems a bit different. Nice engraving work on the tip too.”

“Yes. That is a new version of the pen. The elder does quality work.”

“How much are you selling these for? It is obviously a higher quality work than what you were selling before.”

“18 silvers,” Jim answered.

“That is less than you were charging.”

“It is,” Jim agreed as he laid out a row of potato chip bags.

“That doesn’t make sense. Even if your costs are down, you should be charging more for the higher quality.”

“I disagree. I would rather pass on some of the savings onto any customer and make up the difference in quantity sold.”

“Would you offer a discount if I bought more than one?”

“Afraid not.”

“I’ll take this one,” Michael replied. He gave Jim 18 silvers.”

“Thank you.”

“Is your sake ready?”

“It is.”

“You haven’t set any of it out.”

“No. Even with guards about,” Jim replied gesturing to his guards, “I don’t feel comfortable putting alcohol on display.”

“I’ve already drunk the other bottles I had gotten from you. How much are you charging for it again?”

“Ten silvers a bottle.”

“That is a lot higher than I remember you charging before.”

“That is how much one of the local taverns paid earlier today,” Jim lied with a shrug. He wanted to see how far he could push the other merchant. Remi and Eloise raised eyebrows at Jim’s lie. Leo almost laughed while Rhett looked on stoically.

“I’ll give you 4 silvers a bottle for 10 of each.”

“Make it 7 and you have a deal.”

“I’ll go 5 silvers and not a copper more.”

“We have a deal,” Jim agreed after appearing to give it a lot of thought. In truth he was having a hard time not laughing. From the sound of it, so was his guards.

“Here is your gold,” Michael replied with a smug expression. Jim pulled the 20 bottles of sake from his inventory and set them on the table. They disappeared into Michael’s inventory as fast as Jim put them on the table. Jim frowned. He had noticed since Michael picked up the pen that people had been looking over his offerings from a distance but would not come closer. He noticed Samir standing behind Michael glaring at the shoppers. Michael noticed Jim’s frown. “What is the matter, Jim?”

“It seems other shoppers are afraid of your guard.”

“Yes,” Michael agreed after making a show of looking around. “Samir does have that effect on people. Not to worry though, we won’t be here much longer.”

“Good,” Jim replied with a grin. “I want to sell more of my wares.”

“Ha. You could tell me how you came up with the sake, pens, and grills. I would pay for your secrets.”

“I’m afraid that is not happening. I can’t give up the one advantage I have over others.”

“Pity. Have a good afternoon,” Michael said as he turned to walk away. “Come Samir.”

“Those two give me the creeps,” Remi stated. Eloise nodded in agreement. People started to come up to the table now that Barrett and his guard were gone.

“I’ll unlock the wagon door. Will one of you check on Ariana?” Jim asked the two female guards. Both nodded yes.

*

“Here lad,” Abel said by way of greeting as he joined the group when the market started closing for the day. The smith placed an iron war hammer on the table. “I made two of these.”

{Double Headed Iron War Hammer Level 5 Value 20 Silvers}

“Nice work,” Jim praised the smith. The hammer reminded Jim a bit of a double-bladed axe. It had two large hammer heads instead of blades and was mounted on a 4ft pole. The heads had swirling engravings on them.

“Then there is the second one,” Abel said while putting it on the table. This one was like a halberd. It had a small hammer head on one side with a straight spike on the other. The head had similar engravings as the other hammer. It was mounted on a 5ft pole. “I decided to use a bit of that iron you gave me.”

{Iron War Hammer Level 5 Value 20 Silvers}

“Very nice, dad,” Eloise told Abel.

“Dad, you do have a way with metal,” Remi added. A dwarven mercenary stopped to look at the hammers. She was wearing engraved plate armor.

“Those are nice. Are they for sale? If so, how much for both?”

“They are for sale. I’ll take 50 silvers for the pair,” Jim answered giving the mercenary a quick glance.

“Seems a bit high.”

“These are quality weapons that will last you a long time. Just look at the engravings. Other guards, mercenaries, and adventurers will be jealous to see you welding such beauty while smashing in your enemies,” Jim replied.

“Aye. They are pretty. You have a deal.”

“Thank you,” Jim replied. The dwarf paid Jim and he handed over the hammers. The mercenary walked off grinning. “Easy come easy go.”

“Lad, how did you know that mentioning the engravings and look of the hammers would help sell them?” Abel asked.

“Her armor. It was shiny and engraved.”

“Ha!”

“Would you like me to make more tomorrow?”

“Maybe. Do you know how to make alchemical tools? Burners and the like?”

“Aye. Why do you ask?” Abel wanted to know. Jim told him about Ariana’s desire to be an alchemist. Abel stroked his beard. “I can make a few flasks, crucibles of different sizes, and an alembic. “I’ll need different metals than steel and iron though. Copper mostly.”

“Can you get any?”

“Aye. Eleanor has some I can buy.”

“How much coin do you need?”

“She’ll charge me costs, so say 20 silvers.”

“Alright,” Jim replied and handed over the money.

“Jim, do you want any of us to stay tonight?” Rhett asked.

“No. I’ll cook and stay in the wagon tonight. Kayja is here and the town guards patrol regularly.”

“What about Ariana?” Leo asked.

“Let’s check,” Jim replied. He finished packing his wares and table away. He climbed onto the porch and opened the door. Ari was asleep on his bed. Kayja exited the wagon and headed behind the livery. “She’s sleeping.”

“We’ll leave her with you then,” Eloise said.

“I really need something to read,” Jim remarked. “Is there a bookseller in Raven’s Rest?”

“Aye,” Rhett answered. “You want to go there tomorrow?”

“I do.”

“Alright. We’ll head there early in the morning then,” Leo replied.

“Works for me. Have a good night guys,” Jim told the guards as Kayja returned and jumped onto the porch. She entered the wagon and Jim followed. Abel and the guards left after the door shut.

Chapter 58

“I’ll be glad to get back on the road so I can toss these potato peelings, bean shells, and pea shells in the woods or along the trails,” Jim muttered to himself as he finished shelling the last butterbean.

“Jim, are you talking to yourself?”

Jim turned to the bed and smiled. “Just a little, but I like to think I’m talking to Kayja. How are you feeling?”

“Better than right after I used the books. I still have a headache though.”

“Too bad we don’t have an alchemist that could make you a powder or potion.”

“Haha. How long was I asleep?”

“Most of the afternoon. The sun set just a few minutes ago. Would you like a health potion?”

“No. Don’t waste one on just a headache. I’ll be fine after I eat something.”

“Are you sure?”

“Yes,” Ari answered and sat up. We’re having beans tonight?”

“Butter beans, peas, potatoes, sliced cucumbers, and baked chicken,” Jim answered as he stood to wash the beans. “It’ll be at least an hour before supper is ready.”

“Can I have a bag of popcorn or chips to snack on?”

“Sure,” Jim said and handed her a bag of each.

“Thanks.”

“You’re welcome.”

“Jim?”

“Yeah?”

“Would you mind pushing the table back in so I can get out of your bed?”

“Oh. Yeah,” Jim sheepishly replied before pushing the table back into its cubby.

“I need to use the bathroom.”

“I promise not to look,” Jim replied turning back to the sink. Ari slipped past while touching his back as much as possible. A hand gently grabbed his butt too. “You tease.”

“You liked it,” Ariana laughed.

“That’s beside the point,” Jim replied. More laughter was his response.

*

“What are you planning on doing with those tomatoes?”

“Thought I would cook them until I can squeeze the juice out or mash them into juicy bits with my mortar and pestle.”

“Why? Do you want soup?”

“Yeah.”

“Why not wait and have Abel make you a juicer or buy one?” Ariana asked pretending to hold a handle and make a cranking motion with her other hand over it.

“There are juicers here?”

“Yeah. How do you think we get juices? You act very strange at times,” Ariana replied giving Jim a look like he was crazy.

“You forget I’m not from Stormgion.”

“Yeah. I did.”

“Alright. I’ll wait,” Jim replied and put the tomatoes back in his inventory. “What do you want to do until we decide to go to sleep?”

“We can talk.”

“Alright. That reminds me. We need to work out your new contract.”

“I need a new contract?”

“Of course. I can’t pay you just a silver a week when you’re an alchemist and will be making potions and such.”

“But you’ve done so much for me already,” Ari objected.

“As I said before, consider it an investment,” Jim replied. “And Abel is going to make some alchemical tools for you tomorrow.”

“Jim, you’re doing too much.”

“Can you afford to buy the equipment you will need?”

“No.”

“Then consider the equipment Abel makes as part of the investment,” Jim shrugged.

“Thank you.”

“You’re welcome. I think we’ll split the profits on your potions and such equally too.”

“No.”

“What do you mean no?”

“Would you give that kind of deal to anyone else you have craft things or buy from?”

“No.”

“Then why do you want to do so with me?”

“For starters, I’m hoping to form a very profitable long-term partnership with an alchemist. I’m also hoping to court said alchemist, so giving her better terms might help me out,” Jim grinned.

“Oh? Trying to buy my favor?” Ariana coyly asked.

“When you put it that way, what I was saying doesn’t sound so good,” Jim sheepishly admitted.

“Don’t worry,” Ari replied reaching across the table to put her hand on his. “You already had my favor.”

“That makes me happy,” Jim replied while gently squeezing her fingers.

“Why not pay me like you are paying Abel?”

“I don’t want to court Abel,” Jim playfully answered.

“Be serious.”

“I agreed to pay him what he asked for. If things start going well, I’ll probably offer him the same deal I’m offering you. Except for the courting part.”

“You might change your mind. Abel has a wonderful beard and very muscular arms,” Ari quipped. “I can’t compete with that.”

“I’m sure you can come up with a potion or powder that will help,” Jim laughed.

“You’re impossible,” Ariana replied slapping at his arm.

“Perhaps.”

“I accept your offer. We can be partners,” Ari replied after giving it some thought. “Hopefully in more ways than one.”

“I think we’re on the way for that to be true,” Jim said while pulling out his notebook. He turned to a page and spun it around for Ari to read.

“You already had a contract written up?”

“Yeah. I did that earlier today,” Jim admitted as Kayja scratched at the door. He stood and slipped around the table. “I know it’s almost bedtime. I’m coming.”

Ariana read the contract and signed. “We’re business partners now.”

“Good,” Jim replied as he put the notebook in inventory. He pushed the table back into its cubby. He then went back to the door as Ariana stood and stretched. Letting Kayja back in, he locked the door.

“We said we would take turns in the bed, so I’ll sleep on the floor tonight,” Ariana offered.

“We could share the bed,” Jim offered.

“Not yet,” Ari replied and kissed his cheek. “Go and use the bathroom. I promise not to peek too much.”

*

Jim was juicing the last of the cooked tomatoes two days later. The 3 bushels he had used gave him 50 jars of thick juice or gravy as his mom had always called it. He did not think he would sell any of it, so he didn’t add a price or cost to his inventory sheet.

“You’re not going to sell any of that?” Ariana asked as she looked over his list.

“No. I think we’ll end up eating all of it.”

“You really think so?”

“You’ve seen how much the dwarves eat,” Jim replied. Look at how many pounds of meat we’ve been through already.

“Have you seen them eat tomatoes?”

“When I make BLTs. Besides, I think everyone will like this on rice with bacon, eggs, and such for breakfast. I always have,” Jim shrugged.

“Want to make soup tonight now that you have your tomato juice?”

“Yep. Want to help make it and let it cook all day?”

“Sure. Hopefully one of the adventurers answers our request for alchemical ingredients today. I’m itching to get started.”

“Don’t blow up my wagon.”

“I won’t,” Ari replied and stuck her tongue out at him.

“I know. Hopefully, I’ll sell more today too. Yesterday and was extremely slow and I didn’t even get many people looking,” Jim said. The day before yesterday had been a good day. Jim had sold 25 pens and 20 notebooks for 4 gold and 70 silvers. Other merchants were selling popcorn now, so he hadn’t sold any of it. Chips and his other wares hadn’t sold either.

“That is strange. People have always looked even if they didn’t buy.”

“Yeah,” Jim agreed. Kayja let out a low growl.

“Jim, you have company,” Leo called into the wagon. Ariana and Jim looked out the door and saw Michael Barrett, his guard, and two other well-dressed people with them.

“I wonder what he wants,” Ariana said as she reached down to rub Kayja.

“Better not be you again,” Jim huffed.

“I’ll stay in here, start cutting up vegetables for the soup, and keep Kayja company.”

“Wish I could too. But I better see what he wants,” Jim said as he stood.

Chapter 59

“What can I do for you Michael?” Jim asked in greeting.

“Jumping off a cliff would be nice,” Remi whispered under her breath. Jim coughed into his hand to cover the smile and laugh. The guards smiled at Jim.

“Are you alright Jim?” Michael asked feigning concern.

“I’m fine,” Jim answered after taking a sip from his waterskin. “Just a little tickle in my throat.”

“Good. Anyway, I’m here to introduce you to Quincy Shepherd, he is on the Raven’s Rest town council, and Monica Sellers, the leader of the local merchant guild. They have a little business they would like to discuss with you,” Michael made the introduction and stepped back.

“I’ll get right to the point Mr Merchant,” Quincy stated taking the lead, “Raven’s Rest is putting into effect a new law. Quite simply, all merchants that wish to buy, sell, or trade in the town will be required to join the merchant guild.”

“I see.”

“I am sorry to say we will not be accepting new members until the first of next month,” Monica informed Jim, “which is three weeks away.”

“Previous permits will be honored for another two days to allow any merchant, such as yourself, with just a temporary permit to make suitable arrangements,” Quincy added.

“You can sell through an existing member of the guild like Mr Barrett if you both reach an agreement to do so,” Monica added.

“That is bullshit,” Leo said just loud enough to be heard.

“What was that?” Michael asked.

“Just talking to my fellow guards.”

“Uh. Yes. Do you have any questions, Mr Merchant?” Monica asked Jim.

“My current permit is only good for two more days instead of the week left on it?”

“Correct,” Quincy answered.

“Will I be refunded the difference in the price I paid vs the days left on it?”

“No,” the councilman stated with a grin. “Those funds are nonrefundable.”

“It appears you do not have a lot of custom, Mr Merchant. Perhaps you should partner with a known house or other merchant,” Monica said.

“I’m doing ok,” Jim replied. “I’ll be leaving in three days since my permit expires in two.”

“That is your loss,” Quincy sniffed.

“We would hate to lose such a promising new merchant,” Monica added.

“You’ve made your decision and I’ve made mine,” Jim replied. “Good day.”

“You…” Quincy began but fell silent as Jim turned his back on them. The councilman and guild leader turned and left after a signal from Michael.

“Jim, that was not wise,” Michael told him. Jim turned to face the other merchant.

“Oh?”

“No. I’ll be glad to let you sell under my banner and license in exchange for either, 50% of your profits, one of your secrets,” Michael said and then flicked his eyes to the wagon door, “or something of great value.”

“That is not a deal I could ever accept. Have a good day,” Jim replied coldly and turned his back on Michael.

“You fool!”

“Perhaps. Perhaps not,” Jim said as the crowd around them muttered amongst themselves. Jim went to his table and plopped into his chair. Michael stormed off with Samir in tow. Once they were gone, he turned to his guards. “Does anyone ever leave after dark?”

“No,” Eloise answered. “As far as I know the gates are rarely opened after sunset.”

“All of us need to talk. I’m not staying here another two days.”

“You want to leave tonight,” Remi guessed.

“Or very early in the morning,” Jim agreed. He got up and went to the wagon. “Somebody go and get Abel or send him a message saying we need to meet now. I’ll get Ari.”

Peter, the urchin, had taken up to hanging around near Jim’s wagon. Jim had fed the boy each day. Rhett turned to the child.

“Do you know where Eleanor’s smithy is?”

“Yes. Do you want me to get Abel?”

“Aye. Go and tell elder Abel, we need him immediately.”

“I’ll give you two bags of chips and popcorn if you do,” Jim added from the porch. The boy nodded and ran off.

*

“What is this about lad?” Abel asked as he sat at the table opposite Jim. “I only finished one war hammer before that lad came and told me I was needed.”

“Michael has made his play to put the squeeze on me.”

“What does he want?”

“Half my profits, my secrets such as sake, or something of even greater value to me,” Jim said while taking Ari’s hand and casting a glance her way.

“You need to explain things to me,” the smith replied. Jim spent the next few minutes repeating what happened. “This is beyond bad news.”

“Barrett will probably be ready for us to leave tomorrow or just before the gates close this evening,” Rhett said.

“What makes you say that?” Ariana asked.

“If he wants you or Jim’s knowledge then having someone like his assassin follow us would make a lot of sense. They could strike while we camp at night.”

“Could Bill arrange for us to be let out quietly after midnight?” Jim asked while gently squeezing Ariana’s hand.

“You’ll have to bribe him and a few other guards, but yes,” Eloise answered.

“We can arrange it,” Remi added. “It’ll probably cost you at least 25 silvers.”

“Offer two bottles of apple and two of regular sake to see if they reduce their price,” Jim instructed.

“Alright,” Remi agreed and stood. “Come on Eloise, let’s go talk to Cousin Bill.”

“The rest of us will act normal with dad hanging out with us,” Leo grinned.

“What have I told you about calling me dad?” Abel growled.

“Sorry Elder.”

“That’s better you pup.”

“What’s for lunch and supper, Jim?” Rhett asked.

“Soup for supper. Burgers for lunch so I can try to sell a grill or two?”

“Sounds good.”

“Do you still want to get some books,” Ariana asked.

“Yes, but I can wait until we get to another town or city unless there is a book you really want.”

“Nothing I can think of.”

“Good. I don’t really want to spend another copper in Raven’s Rest if I can help it.”

“Jim, how are we going to get your mules out of the livery after dark?” Ariana asked.

“Leave that to us,” Leo replied with a huge grin on his face.

*

“Jim wasn’t wrong. Those things are monsters!” Leo hissed as he and Rhett gazed at the sleeping mules after breaking into the livery.

“I thought you had a plan,” Rhett whispered.

“I did. Those things are laying down and still almost come up to our heads. My plan is now out the window.”

“We should get Jim.”

“No, no. Give me a minute to think of something else.”

“Have you thought of anything brilliant yet?” Rhett asked after a moment.

“No. Let’s get Jim,” Leo answered admitting defeat. They quietly made their way back to the doors. Jim was waiting.

“Couldn’t get Peggy and Al up?”

“Didn’t even try,” Rhett admitted. “They’re too big.”

“Yeah. They are,” Jim agreed. “Come on.”

*

“Jim, are you sure you want to leave this late?” Bill asked at the gate.

“Yeah, I am. The more miles I put between us and Raven’s Rest the better I’ll feel. No offense.”

“None taken. Are you going back to Catfish Landing or heading to Diamond Shoals?”

“I’d rather not say,” Jim answered. He handed the guard the bribe, which was 4 bottles of sake and 20 silvers. “Here is your donation.”

“Open the gate,” Bill ordered the other guards. “Good luck to all of you.”

“Thanks Bill,” Abel said to his nephew. After the wagon cleared the gates, Abel led the other dwarves on their ponies after it. Rhett and Remi sped their ponies up and took positions in front of the wagon. They then slowed to stay just within the light cast by the lantern hung on the front of the wagon.

“Nervous?” Jim asked Ari as she came onto the porch to sit in the doorway. Kayja came up beside her and laid down.

“Yes. I can’t believe I’m leaving Raven’s Rest.”

“We knew this day was coming, but I had hoped it wouldn’t be fleeing after midnight.”

“Yeah. I’ll just think of this as the start to an adventure,” Ariana replied with a smile. “So, where are we heading?”

“Diamond Shoals. I want to see what a port city has to offer.”

Chapter 60

“Mr Barrett, Merchant and his group are gone,” Samir informed his employer just as soon as Michael woke up. “I suspect they departed Raven’s Rest sometime after midnight, but before 3 am.”

“How come I was not awakened before now?”

“I just found out a few minutes ago when the gate guards changed shift.”

“I am wary of this. Find them, kill Merchant and his guards. Kill the smith and wolf as well. Bring the girl, mules, and wagon back to me.”

“As you command.”

“Samir?”

“Yes, my lord?”

“Take some guards with you including the three female guards Merchant had rented on the way to Raven’s Rest. They might provide a distraction at the very least,” Michael ordered. Samir nodded in acknowledgement and left.

*

The troop traveled for several hours. The sun was breaking the treetops. Jim called a brief stop when they arrived where the other wagon had broken an axle. A smile touched Jim’s lips as he thought of an extra precaution.

“Why are you smiling? Ariana asked.

“This is where I met Skarn. And I’ve thought of a contingency plan.”

“The troll?” Abel asked.

“Yes.”

“You want to see if the troll will stop anyone that follows us, don’t you?” Ariana asked.

“I do,” Jim answered as he set the brake. He investigated the field of tall grass and spotted a familiar boulder. Jim’s smiled widened.

“This isn’t such a good idea,” Rhett said.

“It’s crazy,” Leo agreed.

“You can’t trust a troll,” Eloise added. Remi nodded in agreement.

“You’re wrong. I can trust Skarn.”

“I trust Jim,” Ari said. Kayja whimpered. Ari started rubbing her. “It’s ok.”

“Listen to your wolf, lad.”

“Skarn! I want to trade,” Jim yelled out. The boulder moved. After a couple of minutes, it stood upright and stretched.

“Who wakes Skarn?”

“Jim Merchant wakes friend Skarn. I want to trade.”

*

“What is this about Samir,” Layla asked.

“Your friend, Jim Merchant, stole something of importance from Mr Barrett. We are going to get it back.”

“Jim is no thief.”

“I witnessed it with my own eyes. Do you doubt your employer and me, both?” Samir asked while laying his hand on the hilt of his sword.

“No, she doesn’t,” Sadie assured the man while laying a hand on Layla’s shoulder.

“Good. You three come and bring two others. We must ride quickly,” Samir ordered as he walked to the stables.

“We should have listened to Jim and broke this contract,” Jade told her sisters. Sadie nodded in agreement.

“It’s looking that way,” Layla admitted. “Come on. Let’s go before he takes offense.”

*

“What you want?” Skarn asked.

“I want you to stop any people riding horses that follow us today,” Jim answered. “I will give more meat if you do.”

“How much meat?”

“I’ll give 50 pounds of bison meat, 40 pounds of bacon, 20 pounds of ham, and 20 pounds of chicken.”

“Too much meat for simple task. Skarn trade hides and do task for free since Jim is nice.”

“What kind of hides?” Ariana asked from the wagon.

“Oooh. Pretty!”

“She’s not for trade.”

“No?”

“No.”

“Too bad. Bring meat. Skarn trade rock cat and drake hide.”

“Ok. Ariana, do you want to come? I would feel better if you do.”

“Ok. I’ll come, “Ari agreed and shut the wagon door. Kayja stayed on the porch as Ariana climbed down.

“We’ll come too,” Leo and Eloise offered. “The others will stay with the wagon.”

*

The rock cat was something that looked like the mockups Jim had seen of saber tooth tigers. This one had brown fur with spots like a jaguar. Its saber teeth were at least 8 inches long. It had a tail like a cougar. Oh, and it came up to Leo’s chest laying on its side.

“That’s one huge cat,” Eloise remarked. “We could ride that thing.”

“If it was alive,” Leo quipped.

“Bad cat tried to take meat. Me bash twice. Cat no move again.”

“Skarn didn’t eat it?” Jim asked.

{Rock Cat Level 9}

“Skarn try cat before. No like taste.”

“The eyes can be used to make a night vision potion and the heart can be used to make a powerful health potion,” Ari said. Jim nodded in agreement.

“Drake further back in cave. Come,” Skarn led them further into the cave after Jim looted the cat.

{Mountain Drake Level 12}

“That cat was as big as the drake,” Eloise said.

“It’s level 12,” Jim stated.

“That’s all? It’s young. No wonder it’s that small,” Leo replied.

“Drakes no good eating either. Take away,” Skarn ordered. Jim looted the drake. He then added the meat to what was left of the piles he had gave Skarn before. “Good trade. Skarn take you back to mules now.”

*

“Here Skarn. Jim gives you a gift for protecting us,” Jim told the troll back at the wagon. He dropped the last war hammer Abel had crafted on the ground. It was a double headed iron hammer on a 5 ft iron haft.

“Handle small. Skarn like though,” the troll replied as it picked up the hammer and swung it around like a toy. The troll moved off into the field. “Skarn promise watch road.”

“Thank you, Skarn,” Jim told the troll. He turned to Abel. “Can you drive a wagon?”

“Of course. Why?”

“I want to stay on the road until midafternoon. I’ll cook and we can eat while we keep moving.”

“Good plan,” Rhett said. Abel tied his pony’s reins to the back of the wagon and then climbed up. Ariana stepped into the wagon so Abel could sit in the passenger seat. Jim snapped the reins and the group started out again.

*

“Samir, we need to start being careful,” Sadie warned.

“For what?”

“We’re coming up on where the stone troll has staked out territory.”

“Bah. I’m not worried about a troll. We can ride past the stupid thing.”

“If you say so,” Jade replied after the sisters exchanged a look. A few minutes later the horses started rearing up and shying away from a boulder in the trail. The boulder moved and stood up.

“Skarn no let humans pass. Go back way you came from.”

“Out of our way beast. We have business to attend to.”

“Skarn say again. Go back.”

“We should listen to the troll,” Sadie warned.

“I have no time for this,” Samir sneered and urged his horse forward. Unlike its rider, the horse was smart enough not to attempt to go forward more than a single step. The troll picked up a war hammer and threw it at the horse and Samir.

The hammer passed through the horse’s head and into the assassin. The headless horse reared and fell backwards onto the already dead Samir. Skarn picked up its tree trunk club.

“Go back.”

“We’ll return to Raven’s Rest,” Jade told Skarn.

“Skarn remember you three. Pretty, but not as pretty as one with Jim,” the troll said. The sisters exchanged looks. The other two guards turned and fled. Rumors held that Michael Barrett had certain appetites. “You can stay with Skarn, but not go past today. Tomorrow different. Skarn no protect road tomorrow.”

“Do you want the horse?” Layla asked the troll. “We have to take man back to Raven’s Rest and warn others.”

“Yes. Skarn like horse meat.”

Chapter 61

“Alright lad, we’ve rested long enough. Are we going to Swift River and then to Diamond Shoals or do you want to cut across country?” Abel asked Jim.

“What are the dangers of cutting cross country?”

“Assuming Enoch did his job on the wagon, just wildlife including monsters,” Rhett answered. “If Enoch did a poor job on the protections, you could break an axle easily.”

“Thanks for boosting my confidence.”

“No problem. That’s what we’re here for,” Rhett replied with a wink. “Seriously though, he did a good job on the enchantments.”

“Thanks. Is there any other thing to be aware of other than bandits?”

“There is always a chance to run into a mage, witch, or others hiding out that don’t want to be found,” Abel answered.

“Would traveling across country be faster?” Ariana asked.

“Depends on the terrain,” Leo answered.

“The point of traveling cross country would be to make it harder for anyone that might follow us and to speed our journey up,” Remi stated. “If we were all on horses, that would be the best choice. With Jim’s wagon though, it might be best to stick to the trail.”

“If we have a vote, I vote to stick to the trail,” Eloise said. “The wagon will leave an easy trail to follow.”

“Sounds like a good reason to me,” Ariana added.

The other dwarves agreed with Eloise as well and turned to Jim for the final decision. “Hey, I’m new at all this. You’re the experts. I’ll trust your opinions,” Jim replied. “If anyone needs to use the bathroom, do it quickly.”

“We’re glad you let us use it,” Eloise said.

“It’s much better than squatting in the bushes,” Remi added.

“We would have had to do that if not for the wagon?” Ariana asked horrified.

“Aye. It’s not fun.”

*

“Why are you three back?” Michael asked Layla and her sisters. “Where is Samir?”

“I don’t know where the other two guards are. They fled when we came upon the troll sitting in the middle of the trail and I haven’t seen them since,” Layla answered. “Samir’s corpse is outside.”

“What happened?”

“The troll was guarding the path. It warned us to turn around and return. Samir took exception to that, and the troll killed him and his horse.”

“Did you at least find Merchant and why was the troll guarding the path?”

“No. The wagon’s tracks went past Skarn, the troll. As for why it was guarding the path. Who knows? Maybe Jim had paid it to.”

“Trolls are stupid creatures. It can’t make deals.”

“Trolls might be simple, but they are not stupid. Jim traded with Skarn when we were on the way here the first time. I wouldn’t doubt that he did so again,” Layla replied. “Why do you want Jim?”

“I want his secrets and the elven wench!” Michael screamed. Michael took a drink from a goblet. After visibly calming down he continued, “The girl and Jim’s secrets would make me a lot of money.”

“I understand.”

“I doubt it. Leave me.”

“Yes sir,” Layla replied. She had almost made it to the door when Michael commanded a servant to refill the goblet. She had shut the door when she muttered to herself, “We should have broken the contract.”

*

“Lad, I can make a crank press that could do that a lot easier,” Abel told Jim from in front of the doorway. Jim looked up from the noodles he was making. Ariana had told the others how much she had liked pasta. They had all agreed that they wanted to try it too, so Jim had agreed to cook it for supper.

“You can?” Jim asked with hope in his voice.

“Aye. It won’t be something hard to make and shouldn’t take more than two days. Making the moving parts will be the toughest challenge without a mold.”

“Maybe after we get past Swift River, we could slow down and let you have the mornings to smith and just travel in the afternoons.”

“I could look for herbs, flowers, and the like if we do,” Ariana said as Jim added the last of the noodles to a pot.

“I’d prefer to keep moving until we reach Diamond Shoals, but I see the logic in traveling half days once we’re sure we are not being pursued,” Remi said as she joined the conversation.

“Leaving Raven’s Rest like we did sort of makes us look guilty of something,” Eloise added as she joined them. “Still, we shouldn’t be pursued since none of us broke any laws other than Ari before she met us.”

“Let’s plan on half day traveling or traveling until an hour or so after sunset,” Jim said while setting the pot of noodles on the stove. “That will give Kayja more time to stretch her legs too.”

“About an hour before supper?”

“Should be done between 20 and 30 minutes.”

*

The wagon started to rock a little as a storm hit the area shortly before midnight. The dwarves huddled in their tents and gazed at the wagon through the gloomy weather wanting one of their own. Thankfully, they had put their tents beside the wagon and as luck would have it, the wagon blocked the driving wind and some of the rain.

“We’re going to have to talk to Jim about getting our own wagon,” Eloise told Leo.

“Aye. Try to get some sleep love. I’m awake, so will start my watch early.”

“Thank you,” she replied with a kiss. Remi and Rhett were having a similar talk while Abel slept in his tent. The weather didn’t seem to bother the elder.

*

“Jim?”

“Huh?” Jim mumbled. He wiped his eyes and saw Ariana standing in front of the bed. Lightning flashed outside the window and thundered followed on its heels. “Ari, what’s wrong?”

“I don’t like storms. Will you hold me?”

“Yeah. Join me.”

“Jim…”

“I promise not to do more than hold you. Kayja can join us too,” Jim promised as he patted the bed beside him.

“Ok.,” Ari agreed and crawled into bed and then into his arms with her back pressed to his front.

“Come on Kayja,” Jim encouraged the aki wolf. Kayja didn’t need the encouragement as she jumped onto the bed and settled into a ball near their feet.

“Thank you,” Ariana told Jim after turning slightly in his arms so she could look over her shoulder at him.

“You never have to thank me for doing things for you.”

“I know. But I will anyway,” Ari replied before laying her head down.

*

Jim woke the next morning when Kayja scratched at the door. He looked at the sleeping woman in his arms and decided life was particularly good at the moment. Kayja scratched at the door a second time. “Alright. I’m coming.”

“Don’t move. I’m comfortable,” Ari complained.

“Sorry. Kayja wants out,” Jim replied as he extracted himself from her and the bed. He let the wolf out as Ariana pulled the covers up. It was a few minutes before sunrise. Jim looked out the door and noticed the wet ground. Water could be seen making shallow rivulets in the path as it ran down the sloped ground. “It rained a lot last night.”

“That’s nice,” Ari mumbled. Jim shook his head made use of his bathroom and changed. He imagined the dwarves would want a shower and a hot breakfast soon. Kayja returned and Jim shut the door. He walked to the bed and looked at Ariana.

“You might want to get up. The others will probably be looking forward to using the bathroom soon,” Jim warned. He bent down and kissed her cheek. Jim then stepped to the sink and filled a pot with rice and water. Ari got up, kissed his cheek, and used the bathroom. “Coffee or that plant you said could be a coffee substitute would be really good right now.”

“Maybe, but you’ll have to do without,” Ari said as she started taking a shower. Jim put the pot on the stove and activated the burner. He exited the wagon to tend the mules.

“Ugh. You two look a sight,” Jim told Al and Peggy as he fed them. Jim didn’t think mules could glare, but he was almost sure both were glaring at him.

“Morning Jim,” Leo yawned.

“Morning Leo. Rough night?”

“That’s putting it mildly.”

“I have rice on and will cook some of the tomato gravy with sausage and biscuits to go with it.”

“No eggs?”

“We only have one or two more.”

“That sucks.”

“The price we pay for leaving so quickly. You can blame me,” Jim grinned.

“I will,” Leo retorted with a grin of his own. The others started exiting their tents. “Can we use the bathroom and shower?”

“In a few minutes. Ari is using it now.”

“I’m next,” Eloise called out after hearing what Jim said.

*

“Jim, that was good.”

“Thanks Abel.”

“Jim, we want a wagon,” Remi told the merchant. The other dwarves nodded in agreement, including Abel. “Last night sucked and would have been a lot worse if the wagon didn’t block out part of the wind and rain.”

“Would the ponies pull a wagon?” Ariana asked.

“Aye. They are hill ponies. Not as strong as the jackstocks, but they are a good hardy breed,” Eloise answered.

“We can use four if it takes that many to pull the wagon. That leaves one left to use as a scout or to ride back and forth,” Abel added.

“It’s a good idea,” Jim agreed. “Wyatt, the wainwright that built mine might give us a deal, but he said he would charge 20 gold per wagon to others.”

“It would also need enchanting,” Rhett pointed out.

“I don’t have the gold to cover all that,” Jim said.

“We’ll pay for our wagon lad. That’s if your wainwright will go ahead and build it,” Abel replied.

“So, back to Catfish Landing instead of going to Diamond Shoals it is,” Jim announced.

“Let’s finish cleaning up camp and get going,” Remi suggested. A chorus of “Ayes” answered her.

Chapter 62

“I haven’t been to Swift River in years,” Abel said from beside Jim just after the sun had set five days later. They had ended up taking it slow so Abel could craft items in the morning and Ari could gather herbs and plants. Jim had also put another 40 pounds of rice into making more sake. Ariana stuck her head out the doorway looking around with interest. “Would you like to sit up here so you can look around easier lass?”

“No thanks. The gate is shut. Looks like we’ll be roughing it another night.”

“Ha. Roughing it she says while she gets to sleep in the comfortable wagon in a down stuffed bed,” Abel replied. Jim smiled.

“It’s not like that.”

“Don’t try that. You two have been a lot touchier since that storm a few nights ago. If you’re not sharing a bed, I’m not a blacksmith,” Abel retorted while gesturing at Ari and Jim. Ari blushed while Jim’s smile got bigger. “Look at Jim’s face. The lad can’t stop smiling.”

“Jim!” Ariana exclaimed while hitting his shoulder.

“We’re not having sex,” Jim told Abel.

“Never said you were. I just said you were sharing a bed.”

“Ah! Then yeah, that is true.”

“Ugh! Jim, you don’t just say that out loud!” Ariana screeched and went back into the wagon.

“You’ll have to make that up to her,” Abel grinned.

“I know. I will. There are some flowers…”

“Jim,” Abel interrupted. “If you go near the river in the dark, I’ll tell the others to let a caiman have you.”

“I was going to say there are a group of flowers near that tall tree over there,” Jim replied and pointed to a tree at the edge of the trail. “They had just started to bloom when we left to go to Raven’s Rest. Hopefully, they are still blooming.”

“Aye. That makes more sense. Still be careful.”

“I will,” Jim said as the mules stopped just off the trail in front of the gate and he set the brake.

*

“Jim, why are making me follow you along while you gather flowers?” Leo asked.

“Hold the lantern higher please,” Jim said as he bent over a group of river sage. “Ha! Purple. Ari will like that. I made a mistake and need to make it up to Ariana. So, flowers.”

“If she dumps you, we can just find you a nice dwarven lass. They are harder to upset.”

“Not from what I’ve seen of you and Eloise,” Jim replied as he picked some of the sage. He had some red and yellow echinacea too. Kayja was enjoying the walk and running small rabbits and the like.

“You have a point there, but we’re married. When you’re courting dwarven lasses never get upset with you. But when you marry them…”

“I think that is true of most women regardless of race,” Jim laughed. “And I think I’ve found the woman I want to keep by my side.”

“You just met her a few days ago.”

“I know. It just feels right.”

“I know that feeling. Felt the same when I met Eloise. There is a red flower over there,” Leo pointed to another group of flowers.

“Forest Aster. I’ll pick a few of them and we can get back to the wagon.”

“Good. I’m ready for some sleep and supper.”

“Isn’t that the wrong order?” Jim asked as he picked some of the aster.

“Nope. I’m equally ready for both, so it doesn’t matter.”

“Alright,” Jim laughed as he stood. “Let’s go back. And Leo?”

“Yeah?”

“Thanks for the talk.”

“Anytime boss.”

*

“I don’t want to talk to you right now,” Ariana told Jim when he entered the wagon.

“I know. I came to apologize. I shouldn’t have joked with Abel.”

“No, you shouldn’t have,” Ari agreed.

“I got you these,” Jim said and pulled the flowers out of his inventory.

“Jim?”

“Yes?”

“Did anyone else touch these?”

“No. Why?”

“Wash your hands. Some of them are poisonous.”

“Which ones?” Jim asked as he followed his alchemist’s orders.

“The aster, sage, and echinacea. All three can be used to make healing potions as well as poison.”

“Wish I would have taken you with me when I went to pick them,” Jim replied after drying his hands.

“Me too,” Ari said and stepped into him. She put her arms around him. He wrapped his around her. “Thank you for the gift and you are forgiven.”

“Thank you,” Jim replied as they broke the hug. Want a steak for supper? I will grill them and that way you can work on these flowers.”

“That would be great. Baked potatoes or fries?”

“I’ll ask the others.”

“Alright. I’ll start peeling the potatoes.”

*

“I hadn’t realized we have eaten that many potatoes and that much flour,” Jim remarked to Ariana as she finished working on the flowers after supper and he looked over his inventory list.

“Oh?”

“Yeah. Two pounds of flour and another bushel of potatoes are gone. Plus a few pounds of each cut and type of meat.”

“We’re also out of eggs.”

“Yeah. Hopefully we can get some more here,” Jim replied. “I forgot about those.”

“Forgot about what?”

“The monster and animal parts I got from Skarn.”

“I remember you looting them, but we never talked about what you got,” Ariana said. Jim told her. “I want the heart and eyes.”

“The heart is worth a lot.”

“That’s because it is used to make potent mana potions. That one heart can produce 6 potions worth at least 75 silvers a piece.”

“And the eyes?”

“They are used to make night vision potions. Adventurers love them for when they go into tombs and such. The potions are worth 10 silvers each,” Ari answered. “Abel might want the rest so he can craft armor or jewelry with.”

“You know the heart and eyes are yours,” Jim told his love interest as he put the parts on the table. They disappeared into Ari's inventory. He couldn’t consider her a lover, but girlfriend was a fairly good description. He dismissed the random thought. “You mentioned earlier those flowers could be used as a poison. Tell me what else they can be used for.”

Ari’s eyes lit up. She loved talking about her craft. “Sure. The sage can be used to make health potions, a tea to help digestive issues, or an oil that can help with breaking issues. The echinacea can be used to create health potions and a tea that helps with fever. The aster can be used as a laxative or eaten as part of a salad. The chrysanthemums can be used as a healthy tea or in a health potion.”

“That’s a lot of benefit.”

“Yeah. I’d like to pick more in the morning,” Ariana stated as she washed her hands after putting the petals, leaves, and stems in her inventory.

“Alright.”

“Ready for bed?”

“Almost. Ari, there is an older woman here that I slept with.”

“Oh. I take it you mean sex.”

“Yes.”

“You sprung this on me.”

“I know. I thought it best to get things out in the open instead of keeping it from you,” Jim replied as he stood and faced her. He reached for her hands, and she let him take them.

“Did she mean anything to you?”

“A night that we both needed. Josephine, the woman, and captain of the village guard made it quite clear that we are on separate life journeys. I’m glad she did.”

“Why is that?”

“Because I left here, went to Raven’s Rest, and met you,” Jim answered with a smile.

“Good,” Ari replied with a smile of her own. She stepped into Jim and kissed him. She then turned and tugged him toward the bed. “Come on. Let’s go to bed.”

“You’re not mad?”

“No. I’m not jealous either. You’re with me and not her.”

Chapter 63

“Chickweed!” Ari exclaimed.

“What is special about it?” Eloise asked.

“It can be eaten and is good in sandwiches, salads, and soups.”

“You elves and your weeds!” Remi teased.

“I’ll ignore that. Anyway. Chickweed is a great topical treatment for cuts, burns, and rashes. It is also potent in healing potions.”

“So, you just rub it on your skin?” Remi asked.

“Yes.”

“Interesting.”

“Very,” agreed Eloise.

“Curly dock,” Ariana announced as she checked another weed.

“We know that one. Roast the seeds and they make a nice, warm drink,” Remi replied.

“Are you going to harvest some of them?” Eloise asked. “If you don’t, I will. It’ll be winter before we know it.”

“I’ve never tried the drink, but sure, I’ll harvest some,” Ari answered and dropped to her knees to harvest the weed.

“You should have worn pants,” Remi observed. Eloise nodded in agreement.

“If the dress wasn’t enchanted to stay clean, I would have.”

“Plus, you love wearing dresses and skirts.”

“That too.”

“And Jim loving you in them doesn’t hurt either,” Eloise teased.

“Yes,” Ari admitted. Ari harvested about 20 of the weeds and they moved on. A few minutes later the trio stumbled across a patch of dandelions.

“Want any of these,” Remi asked.

“Yes. Dandelions are great in health potions. The roots can be made into a tea or ground and roasted to make a coffee substitute.”

“Jim might love that. He complains about not having coffee enough,” Eloise replied to nods from the other two. “Does it do anything else?”

“Yes. The flowers can be eaten or used to make wine.”

“Now you’re talking my language,” Remi joked.

“This might take a while,” Ari warned the guards. “There is a lot to harvest here.”

“That’s fine. Jim didn’t want to head into the village until after noon anyway,” Eloise replied.

*

“I should have known it was you,” Josephine greeted Jim. “The guards reported there was a strange wagon just sitting outside the gate.”

“Hi Josephine,” Jim greeted the guard captain being mindful of the guards behind her. Jim gestured to the dwarves. “These two are my guards, Rhett, Leo, and the smith is elder Abel.”

“What are you doing back so soon?”

“Heading back to Catfish Landing. We got caught in the storm a few days ago and decided we needed another wagon.”

“Alright,” Josie replied. She turned to the other guards. “Don’t worry about this one or his guards unless they break our laws.”

“Ha. Like I would do that.”

“You probably would,” Josie replied with a straight face. Jim shrugged and she laughed. “Do you have anything interesting for sale?”

“Interesting to guards or the general public?”

“Guards, of course,” Josephine answered. Jim listed off the weapons and armor that he had on hand.

“Abel is working on a war hammer I think.”

“He is,” Leo confirmed.”

“I’ll let the other guards know that they can come and check out your wares. I need to get back to paperwork,” Josie replied. She turned back to the guards. “You’re already here, so if any of his wares sounds interesting to you, take a look before any of the others show up.”

“Thanks Josephine,” Jim said. She nodded acknowledgement and walked off. A couple of the guards came up to see what Jim had. Jim watched Josie walk away. Other than acknowledging that she was attractive, he felt nothing but friendly toward her. Jim smiled at that pleasant surprise.

*

“There are elderflower trees near the river,” Ariana pointed to them.

“We should be getting back,” Eloise replied. “And there are caimans in and around the river.”

“Could we pick a few flowers and berries off them?” They are used in mana potions.”

“I don’t know,” Remi said. “I don’t want to risk getting too close to the river.”

“Ok.”

“Wait. Really? You’re not going to argue or try to talk us into going down there?” Eloise asked.

“No. While I would like the flowers and berries, I’m not stupid. I don’t want either of you or me to become caiman chow!”

“Thanks!” Remi exclaimed. “Let’s head back to the camp and we’ll skirt a little closer to the village wall to see what else you can find.”

*

“Did you have fun finding weeds, flowers, and plants?” Jim asked Ari as the trio returned to camp. Abel was putting away his forge and tools.

“Yes! We found lots of good weeds and plants. The real winner was tansy and wormwood,” Ariana answered and kissed Jim’s cheek in greeting.

“What is special about them?”

“Tansy is an excellent component of healing potions and wormwood is a good component of mana potions.”

“I’m happy that you found some stuff you needed.”

“Me too. Has anything happened while we were gone?”

“Josephine came out to check on us because the gate guards reported a strange wagon just sitting here. She also allowed the guards to buy any weapons or armor I have if they wanted to.”

“Uh huh. Any strong feelings emerge?”

“None,” Jim answered with a smile. He stood up and pulled Ari into a hug. He whispered in her ear,” You are the only woman I desire.”

“I know,” she whispered back. Louder, she asked, “Did you sell anything?”

“Will you two stop that? I thought we were ready to leave. The mules aren’t even hooked up,” Abel complained with a grin on his face.

“Help me hook up the mules and I’ll tell you what I sold?”

“Ok.”

*

“Alright. What did you sell?” Ariana asked as the wagon slowly made its way through the village. She was sitting on the other porch seat so she could see the village.

“The war hammer that Abel made this morning, 2 of the elven swords, the 2 great swords, and the 5 sets of chainmail for 1 gold and 35 silvers.”

“Good job. If we weren’t in public, that would deserve a kiss.”

“Tease!”

“Not me!” Ari exclaimed in mock seriousness. Her smile ruined it though. Jim laughed. “This village is bigger than I had heard it was.”

“Yeah. I understand they want to become a town in a few more years. I can’t see myself being a part of a place like this.”

“Why not?”

“It doesn’t feel right. Could you see yourself living here or a place like it?”

“Not anymore,” Ari answered after giving it some thought. Maybe a bigger town or city. Maybe a small village with lots of trees and a pond or lake too.”

“How about someplace in the mountains?”

“Hmmm. That wouldn’t be bad either,” Ari replied. “Any chance we could see the Eastern Forests some day?”

“Yes. I want to see them too.”

“Are you saying that to humor me?”

“No. I’ve heard it is a beautiful land.”

“If we’re making a list of places to see, I would love to visit the Northern Mountains again,” Abel called back. He was riding his pony in front of the wagon.

“What is special about them?” Ari asked.

“The Northern Mountains are north of the Eastern Forests and separate Praha from Yuenland. Beyond being a natural border and defense, they are the most majestic mountains on Stormgion and the dwarves’ ancestral home. Snowcapped peaks, forests, waterfalls, streams, valleys, and rivers make up the landscape. When the leaves change in the fall, it is one of the most beautiful sights you will ever see.”

“I want to go see that too,” Ari replied.

“Yeah, that sounds nice.”

“You forgot to mention the drakes, trolls, griffins, harpies, and northern great eagles,” Leo chimed in.

“You’ve never been there,” Abel retorted.

“So? I’ve still heard of the dangers.”

“They’re no worse than anywhere else,” Abel replied. Ari and Jim exchanged a look as they exited the other gate. Both laughed.

“On to the glorious village known as Catfish Landing!” Remi shouted to more laughter.

Chapter 64

“Mr Barrett, you have a guest,” a servant informed Michael.

“Who is it?”

“The gentleman did not say. He presented this to give to you,” the servant replied while offering a medallion. Michael took it and his eyes widened after examining both sides. One side had the merchant guild’s trading scale emblem, which consisted of a stack of coin on one side. A person on the other. The other side of the medallion had a saying which read “Happiness is not the possession of money. Happiness is using money to control others.”

“Lead me to him now!” Michael screamed at the servant while closing his fist around the medallion. The servant jumped to obey and led Michael to a sitting room where the guest waited. “Lord Henrik Lender, you honor my home with your presence.”

“Michael, I’m pleased you did not make me wait.”

“I would never even entertain the thought of making a noble, much less the head of Praha’s merchant guild and king’s cousin wait,” Michael replied. He held out the medallion. “Your token sir.”

“Thank you,” Henrik said taking the medallion and returning it to his inventory. “I will not waste your time or my own. I want you to leave this Jim Merchant alone.”

“My lord, he has…”

Henrik held up a hand silencing Michael. “I care not for your excuses or reasons. Your handling of Merchant was bumbled from the start and already cost you a quality asset.”

“If not for the troll, Samir would have accomplished his task. I am trying to hire mages to handle the creature.”

“You will cease that operation at once. The guild values the service the troll is providing. This Skarn is keeping other creatures and bandits from threatening travelers to and from Raven’s Rest for part of the journey from Swift River and Diamond Shoals. That traffic will only grow as Swift River grows into a town.”

“The troll is a mindless beast!”

“On the contrary, trolls are simple creatures, but as Skarn has proved, useful ones capable of thought and making deals with us. If it does not attack peaceful travelers that pass through the territory it has claimed, I am recommending to the king that we leave the creature alone. I am also having a missive sent out stating that travelers should offer food to pass through its territory. Those three guards of yours that accompanied Merchant to Raven’s Rest have confirmed that food is what Merchant traded to it.”

“Fine. I will leave the troll alone.”

“You will leave Merchant alone as well.”

“Why?”

“He has secrets that I know you want as well as the elf girl for your pleasure house or personal use.”

“How do you know?” Michael asked. Then it hit him. “You have a spy in my house!”

“I have spies in every merchant and noble house,” Henrik confirmed. “Just let Merchant introduce his ideas and secrets to the market. Then copy and sell them cheaper.”

“But the sake.”

“I have begun making overtures to the ones producing it in Catfish Landing.”

“You’re invading my territory?”

“In a manner of speaking. Before you get angry, listen to my plan.”

“I’m listening,” Michael said after taking a minute to calm himself.

“Merchant turned over the sake production to some of the villagers in Catfish Landing along with helping convince some of them to become rice farmers.”

“Rice farmers?”

“Rice is an edible plant that was previously believed to be a weed.”

“Jim did say something about sake being a rice wine,” Michael replied. “So, if some of the villagers are growing it, he has a steady supply.”

“Exactly. Merchant has first right to purchase any sake the village produces. I am attempting to get the villagers to circumvent that agreement by having others produce the sake and sell to my representative.”

“That would work if they agreed to it.”

“Yes. Headman Aaron is one of the ones involved with the rice and sake production. He is considering my offer. He realizes the village could make more money by selling to others and not just Merchant.”

“Aaron always seemed sort of slow to me.”

“I believe he was playing a role since you were the only merchant buying their fish and he didn’t want to upset the cart so to speak.”

“I think I see. But what is in it for me if I leave Merchant alone?”

“I plan on establishing a guild house in Swift River within the next six months. I want you to lead it just like your cousin Monica leads the one here. In addition, you will be my representative to Catfish Landing. You will give me 25% of all sake and rice profits in return. And as I stated earlier, you can copy Merchant’s other new items and sell copies you have made.”

“I…I accept your offer lord Henrik. I will leave Jim alone.”

“Good,” Henrik replied and stood. “I will have a contract sent to you before the end of the day.”

“Thank you, my lord.”

“Think nothing of it. This will be good business for us both,” Henrik graciously told Michael. Before he exited the room he stopped and turned to look at Michael. “Forget the girl too. I will have a virgin elven slave sent to you to do with as you please.”

“Thank you again, my lord!” Michael beamed. “I shall do as you say.”

“Excellent,” Henrik replied as he walked away. The leader of the merchant guild called over his shoulder, “Come along Adler.”

A shadow detached from the wall from beside Michael and a man followed the lord out. Michael shuddered in fear. He had never known the man was there.

*

“Jim, how do you cope with what has happened to you?” Ari asked from beside Jim as the wagon continued down the trail towards Catfish Landing.

“What do mean?”

“Being sent to this world and the dying,” Ari whispered.

“I don’t think about it.”

“Can you explain that?”

“When Anu told me, he would not be sending me back to earth, I pushed the feelings and thoughts deep down inside of me. I decided to try and make the most of what was happening. I was also partly thinking I could be a warrior or hero. Then reality set in and I decided I didn’t want to die or fight. I wanted wealth and comfort after seeing how Viktous lived in Rock Hope.”

“You have pretty much put that behind you,” Ariana concluded.

“Exactly.”

“But the dying?” Ariana asked as she laid a hand on Jim’s thigh.

“I think Anu did something to me to keep me from going insane. It hurt being killed, but when I woke up in the temple or outside of another one, it felt like I was waking from an intense dream or nightmare,” Jim shrugged.

“That sort of makes sense. So, like a dream or nightmare, you don’t think about it.”

“Yep,” Jim agreed and looked down at Ari sitting on the floor in the doorway between the seats.

“Better you than me,” Ari grinned.

“Hey!”

“It’s true,” Ari laughed. “I don’t want to die until I’m very old and grey.”

“Me too,” Jim agreed with a grin of his own.

“There is a little clearing ahead. Can we stop and take a break?” Ariana asked.

“Sure,” Jim answered as he begun easing the brake. They stopped at the clearing.

“Jim, there is still a lot of light. Why are we stopping?” Remi asked.

“Ari wanted to take a few minutes to stretch her legs. And a break would be nice,” Jim answered as he stood and stretched. Kayja didn’t need any encouragement. The wolf dashed out of the wagon and into the surrounding woods.

“Wonder what she is after?” Leo asked.

“Maybe a rabbit,” Rhett answered.

“You just want rabbit stew,” Eloise replied.

“Aye. Rabbit stew would be nice.”

“Thanks for stopping lad. Riding a pony all day is a lot more tiring than it used to be,” Abel said.

“Thank Ari,” Jim replied. “And you’re welcome.”

“Thanks lass.”

“You’re welcome. Who wants to come with me to look for ingredients?” Ari asked. Before anyone could answer a loud inhuman scream could be heard coming from the forest in the direction that Kayja had ran off in. A moment later a large Majestic Red Cervus buck bound into the clearing heading toward them.

{Majestic Red Cervus Level 7}

The buck changed direction after seeing the group of people, only to have an aki wolf jump into it and bit into the deer’s throat. This caused the deer to fall over. Kayja then let go of the cervus and latched onto its snout. Shortly later, the buck stopped struggling and did not move again.

“By all that is metal!” Leo exclaimed. Kayja left her kill and returned to Jim.

“That buck must weigh three times as much as Kayja does,” Eloise said in wonder.

{Kayja Aki Wolf Level 5}

“Good girl! You leveled again,” Jim praised his pet, guardian, and hunter.

“Looks like no rabbit stew for you,” Remi told Rhett.

“Aye. But we’ll have lots of venison instead,” Abel added.

“We’re going with Ari to look for plants,” Eloise announced while grabbing her sister and Ariana by the hands. “You boys have fun with the deer.”

“Jim, can you do that looting trick on it?” Leo asked.

“If I do, all I’ll get are a few parts that are useful for crafting or alchemy.”

“Looks like we’ll have to clean and skin the deer the old-fashioned way then,” Rhett said pulling out a rope from his inventory. “Let’s get this thing under a tree and strung up.”

“I’ll water the mules and ponies,” Jim said. “I need to give Kayja a treat too.”

“Slacker!” Leo taunted Jim.

“I’m not slacking. I’m working.”

“Uh huh,” Rhett replied. Jim’s laugh was the only response he made.

Chapter 65

“Catfish Landing looks the same as it did when I left,” Jim observed.

“Did you expect something different lad?” Abel asked. The elder smith had taken to riding and driving the wagon more since Kayja had taken down the cervus and was currently driving the wagon now. Neither Ari nor Jim minded as it let them snatch a little alone time. “It’s only been two weeks give or take since you left the last time.”

“Yeah. I was sort of hoping they had at least started on the mill that was talked about.”

“It’s not much to look at,” Ariana observed.

“Most villages are like this,” Abel replied. “Most folks just want to live their lives in peace in villages like this. So long as there is a tavern or inn that serves mead and other drink, they are typically happy enough.”

“I suppose that is true of most,” Ari agreed. “Have you guys thought about what you want your wagon to look like on the inside? There will be five of you sharing it.”

“Aye lass. We want something like this one, but with bunk beds at the rear instead of the storage space and pull-out table. Then we want to put the bathroom halfway on the left beside the small kitchen. On the right we want some storage space and bench across from the bathroom and at the front, a fold out bed for me.”

“Then you have to get it enchanted,” Jim added.

“Aye. We can do that at Diamond Shoals.”

“Which way are we going?” Rhett called back to the wagon.

“Take the path to the left and we’ll circle around to Nora’s shop,” Jim answered.

“Alright.”

*

“Jim, what are you doing back? I thought you were going to head east from Raven’s Rest,” Nora said in greeting.

“Plans changed,” Jim answered.

“Well, it’s nice to see you again,” Nora smiled. Jim noticed the smile didn’t quite touch her eyes as her smiles had before. He suspected something was going on that he would not like.

“Aye, it’s good to see you too,” Jim replied. His smile was more genuine. “Where is Wyatt?”

“Working on Michael Barrett’s wagon. Have you come for sake and rice?”

“I brought you some customers actually. My smith and guards want a wagon. But I’ll take what sake is available and some rice too.”

“Is that Jim’s voice I hear?” Wyatt asked as he exited the shop. Like his wife’s, Wyatt’s smile did not quite reach his eyes. “What’s this about customers?”

“Lad, we need a wagon,” Abel spoke up.

“It’ll be a month at least before I can get to it.”

“We need it faster than that,” Rhett replied.

“Can’t be helped. Michael Barrett wants three. The first is almost done, but I’ll still have to do his others before I can work on someone else’s order.”

“You won’t make an exception for a friend that is willing to assist you in finishing your current project?” Ariana asked. “Even one that gave you the wagon design and sake production?”

“And who might you be?” Nora asked Ariana.

“Ariana, Jim’s companion or maybe consort, and alchemist.”

“You move quickly Jim,” Nora told the merchant.

“As does life,” Jim replied while looping arms with Ari.

“That it does,” Wyatt agreed. He seemed to think things over. “If you help finish Michael’s wagon and build the wagon you guys want, I’ll build your wagon next.”

“That we can do lad,” Abel agreed.

“We want one more thing, Jim.”

“What’s that?”

“We end the deal you have with us for sake,” Nora replied. “We want to be able to sell to anyone that wants it without having to deny them because you get first right to the sake.”

“Besides Michael, who wants to buy sake?” Jim asked.

“I didn’t say anyone had approached us for sake.”

“You didn’t have to. I’m not stupid and it’s obvious someone has approached you,” Jim retorted.

“Alright. We do have offers that are worth more than what you agreed to pay,” Nora admitted.

“I’ll agree to cancel our deal on two conditions,” Jim said after giving it some thought. “One, you build my guards’ wagon at cost. Don’t object. You’ll make more off the sake long term.”

“I’ll agree to that. What is the second term?” Wyatt asked.

“You either pay us for any labor any of us do or give a further discount on the wagon.”

“That means I’ll be working on the wagon at a loss.”

“Yes,” Jim agreed. He didn’t blame Wyatt and Nora for listening to other offers, but it still pissed him off. And it might be petty, but he wanted to make them pay for it.

“Fine. I’ll agree to that too.”

“Excellent,” Jim replied. He pulled out his table and chair. He sat and pulled out his notebook and pen. “Let me write this up as a contract and we’ll all sign it. Remi, how much do you guys charge for a day’s labor?”

Wyatt groaned as he realized getting a better deal for sake would cost him even more than he had imagined.

*

“Jim, you didn’t have to force a contract on the wainwright and carpenter like that,” Eloise said as they met at the wagon a short while later. Jim had moved it to the village square since Nora had wanted to charge him for parking it in her shop’s yard.

“I know. It angered me that they went behind my back and entertained offers even though we had a deal, so I wanted some payback,” Jim shrugged.

“And now your relationship has gone bad,” Rhett said.

“I think it was already there. Did anyone else notice their smiles never reached their eyes when they greeted us?”

“I did,” Abel answered. Eloise, Remi, and Ariana said they saw it too.

“I was paying more attention to their hands,” Rhett admitted.

“Footwork for me,” Leo added. “The wainwright is a fighter.”

“Wyatt is a village guard,” Jim informed them.

“Jim, it might be best if you didn’t help with the wagons since your relationship with them is stressed,” Ari said.

“Stressed?” Leo asked with a grin.

“That’s a kind way of putting it,” Ari replied with a smile.

“I agree,” Jim said. “I’ll attempt to sell some things and help Ari look for herbs and such while we are here.”

“Remi and I will go with you when you look for plants and such,” Eloise said. Ariana and Jim nodded in agreement.

“Do you want me to help with the wagon or craft things?”

“Craft please. There is another village near here I want to trade with before heading to Diamond Shoals.”

“Rock Hope has plenty of smiths,” Remi pointed out.

“I’m not talking about Rock Hope. Remember how I acquired the mules?”

“You want to trade with the gnomes?” Ari asked.

“I do. They wanted potions, herbs, and seeds. I think they’ll be interested in weapons or pickaxes too.”

“They might want the drake and cat hides,” Eloise said. Gnomes are short and those two hides should make a lot of armor for them.”

“I couldn’t make armor without measurements,” Abel said. “I can make short weapons and pickaxes. Goblins are only a tad bit taller than gnomes and I’ve made weapons for goblins before.”

“What will gnomes have to trade? Metals?”

“Maybe. What I know they have is something I don’t want to mention out loud.”

“Fair enough.”

“How is the inn here?” Ariana asked. “The shower is nice, but I would like a bath.”

“It’s ok. The beds aren’t great. I agree about a bath, but I’ll be sleeping in the wagon. My bed is a lot more comfortable,” Jim replied.

“I’ll stay with you,” Ari quickly said and then blushed as the dwarves laughed.

“Any bed will do after days of sleeping in bedrolls on the ground,” Rhett replied to more laughter.

Chapter 66

“Blast!”

“What’s wrong Ari?” Jim asked. Kayja looked at her two people at Ari’s outburst, but then laid her head back down.

“I can’t make anything beyond a minor potion or poultice no matter what ingredients I use,” Ariana complained. Jim had spent 1 gold on flasks and 50 more silver for 100 strips of cloth for poultices. Billings had been thrilled with the sales.

“Ari, you just started doing alchemy.”

“I’ve leveled once.”

“Congratulations!”

“Thank you.”

“It’ll still take time to level enough to make the better potions and stuff,” Eloise said from where she was leaning against the wagon. Jim had setup the smaller table to attempt sell some of his merchandise. Ariana was using the larger one to work on her craft and make some potions.

“I know. I just want…” Ari trailed off in frustration.

“You want to make better potions to improve your craft and to help Jim,” Remi concluded.

“Yes.”

“It’ll come in time,” Eloise replied.

“Just do the best you can do,” Jim encouraged.

“Odds are the minor potions and poultices will sell better here than the regular ones will due to cost,” Remi added. “How many have you made so far?”

“Ten of each,” Ari answered sheepishly.

“You’re in too much of a hurry. Relax and just take your time,” Eloise told the budding alchemist. “You’ll probably have to make twice that many to level up again.”

“You could use the stove and one of the cooking pots to boil your potions if you want to,” Jim offered. “It might help speed things along.”

“Then we couldn’t use the pot to cook with anymore.”

“So,” Jim shrugged. “We buy another one or get Abel to craft one.”

“I may try that in a little while. It’ll be interesting to see if larger batches change the leveling rate,” Ari replied. She turned to the guards. “Do you want these poultices and potions?”

“That’s a good idea,” Jim said. “I never bothered to ask about healing you or supplies for that.”

“We pay for them. Ari, sell those if you can. We have 2 dozen regular health potions and 3 dozen poultices between us,” Eloise replied.

“We’ll take you up on your offer when you level enough to make the better potions,” Remi added with a wink.

“Ok,” Ari laughed. She gave the potions to Jim. “Sell what you can.”

“Thank you sweet one.”

“Speaking of sweet ones. What is the story between you and Sena, Jim?” Eloise asked. Jim groaned and dropped his face into his hands. “It’s a good thing you stayed in the wagon last night and didn’t head to the inn for a bath.”

“She was as sweet as can be until she found out we work for you,” Remi grinned.

“Jim?” Ari asked with a touch of heat in her voice.

“Sena seemed to think you were going to take her away from here,” Eloise said.

“It was just sex and fun. I never promised Sena a thing and she knows that.”

“Her father is also upset with you.”

“Milton has been that way since I first visited his inn and wouldn’t let him overcharge me.”

“I’ve fallen for a slut,” Ari muttered.

“Wait. You’ve fallen for me?” Jim asked.

“Don’t play dumb. You know we have fallen for each other.”

“You don’t have a problem with Ari calling you a slut?” Remi asked.

“A little, but I’m willing to overlook it because of my past actions.”

“Are there any others out here, Jim?” Eloise asked with a grin.

“No.”

“Jim?”

“Yes Ari?”

“Shut up!”

“Yes Ari!” Jim replied to laughter from the three women. He turned back to watching the villagers and grinned. Jim didn’t mind playing the fool or apologizing if it kept Ariana from being angry with him.

*

“Lion’s mane!” Ariana exclaimed happily. The morning had been mostly a bust in Jim’s mind. Ari’s potions and poultices was the only items Jim had sold. The healing supplies made Jim 70 silvers. So, after lunch they went hunting for alchemy ingredients.

“What is lion’s mane?” Remi asked.

“A mushroom used for mana potions.”

“That’s good. We haven’t found too many things you can use for mana potions,” Jim said. Ari nodded as she harvested the mushrooms and showed the others what they looked like. Kayja looked at the silly people and bounded off into the brush.

“Is this Reishi mushroom worth anything?” Eloise asked a short while later.”

“Yes! It makes a great sleeping potion,” Ari enthusiastically answered and joined the guard.

“Remi? Eloise?”

“Yes Jim?” Remi asked.

“What happened to you guys in Raven’s Rest that caused you to get kicked from the guild?” Jim asked as Ariana harvested the reishi mushrooms. The two guards exchanged a look.

“We had wondered when you would ask,” Eloise replied.

“In short, we didn’t agree with what our employer at the time wanted us to do. She wanted us to threaten some people to sell their homes to her and we refused,” Remi answered. “We are guards, not thugs.”

“That hardly seems like the sort of thing to get kicked from the guild for.”

“It is when Monica, our former employer, is the head of the merchant guild,” Eloise said bitterly.

“I guess she used her power to pressure your former guild.”

“Aye. And then dad objected, so he got kicked as well,” Eloise answered as she scanned their surroundings. They had found that the woods around the village was mostly safe, but it never paid to be careless.

“That’s bull crap,” Jim said to nods from the women.

“Hopefully, it’s all worked out though,” Ariana said as she stood up. “I don’t think you have to worry about Jim wanting you to do something like that.”

“Yeah, so far things have been a lot better,” Remi agreed.

“Ari, is chaga useful?” Jim asked after he spotted a growth on a birch tree beside a small stream Kayja was drinking water from.

“Where do you see chaga at?” she asked.

“On that birch tree,” Jim answered pointing to it.

“Good eye. Chaga is used in mana potions.”

“It looks nasty,” Eloise said as they approached the tree.

“Thankfully, Jim has never burned food quite as badly as this looks,” Remi teased.

“I can do that for you next time I cook,” Jim teased back.

“You better not,” Ari replied as she harvested the mushroom. After she finished, she said, “Let’s head back. I want to get started on these.”

“Sounds good,” Jim agreed. “Kayja, let’s go home.”

*

“I leveled twice!” Ari exclaimed as she deposited 20 minor health potions, 10 minor mana potions, 10 minor health poultices, and 5 sleeping potions on the table in front of Jim. “Another level or two and I should be able to make regular health and mana potions.”

“Good going! “Jim praised her as he put the healing items into his inventory. “I think we are going to need a lot more flasks, bottles, and cloth though.”

“Me too.”

“I hope we can run across a good supplier in Diamond Shoals.”

“You should be able to,” Abel said as he, Rhett, and Leo joined the group.

“Have fun working on Michael’s wagon today?” Jim asked.

“No. Thankfully we helped Wyatt finish it though. We’ll start on ours in the morning.”

“That’s good. I can’t wait to leave this village,” Remi said. “The villagers aren’t as friendly since they all found out we work for Jim.”

“Did you tick off anyone else when you were here before?” Eloise asked.

“Other than the merchant and innkeeper? Not that I’m aware of.”

“Perhaps those two and the innkeeper’s daughter have poisoned the well so to speak,” Leo offered. “It’s happened before.”

“Maybe. I think the deal I had in place for sake didn’t help once they started getting offers from Michael and whoever else.”

“Aye. Money can do that to people,” Abel agreed. “The innkeeper is happy enough to take our coin for lodging and food though.”

“Speaking of food, want to join us tonight Ariana and Jim?” Rhett asked.

“No thank you.”

“Nah. I’m going to stay with Jim and Kayja.”

“Alright. We’ll take turns eating and wait for you two to turn in for the night before turning in ourselves,” Remi said.

“Sounds good,” Jim replied as he updated his inventory. “Unless someone comes to me specifically asking for something, I don’t think I’ll try to sell anything else here.”

“Don’t want to waste time setting up?” Ari asked.

“Yeah. That is time I could help you if you would like instead.”

“Jim, I’ll start on the trade goods you asked me to make in the next three days or so after we get the wagon started,” Abel informed him.

“That’s fine. I had briefly considered leaving and heading to those trading partners while y’all worked on the wagon but decided against it after thinking how stupid it would be to divide the team for that long.”

“Ari, you’re right. He’s not just a pretty face,” Eloise quipped to laughter from the others, including Jim.

Chapter 67

“What are you doing with the big pot?” Jim asked Ari.

“Making a surprise,” Ari answered with a smile.

“Smells lemony,” Jim replied. Ari’s smile grew bigger. Jim looked into the pot. “That looks too thick to be a liquid.”

“Will you hand me some of that candelabra aloe we found this morning?”

“Sure,” Jim answered and picked some plant leaves from the table behind him.

“You’ll just have to wait and see,” Ari said. She made a shooing motion with her hands. “Go and sell something.”

“Alright. I’m going,” Jim said. As he passed Ari, she smacked his butt. “You’ll pay for that!”

“Promises, promises as I’ve heard you say before,” Ariana grinned as Jim rubbed his backside.

He walked over to the side of the wagon and setup his table and chair. He sat in his chair and arranged a few items on the table. Jim really didn’t want to attempt to sell anything in the village, but he didn’t have anything else to do since Ariana didn’t want him to help her nor was his help wanted with the dwarves’ wagon. “I really wish I had some books.”

“I have a few books I can sell you,” Billings stated as he walked from the temple across the square. He stopped at Jim’s table and looked over the potions, pens, popcorn, and potato chips Jim had displayed. “I acquired them three years ago hoping to sell them here but learned quickly there isn’t a call for books in Catfish Landing. I’m willing to let you have them at a discount just to get them out of my inventory.”

“Eloise let’s go and see what Billings has in the way of books,” Jim told his guard as he packed his wares, table, and chair away.

“Alright,” Eloise agreed after informing Remi of where they were going. Kayja looked up from the porch, where she had been laying down, but Jim waved her back. A few minutes later they entered Billings’ shop with the merchant. He wasted no time in pulling out the few books he had.

The first was titled The History of Praha. The second was titled Plants, Herbs, and Weeds used as Alchemical Ingredients and Compounds. Billings smiled as he showed that one to Jim as he knew Jim would want it for Ariana. The third was titled Religions Throughout Stormgion. The final book was titled Myths and Legends.

“I’ll sell all of them for 5 gold. Books are not cheap since they have to be written and copied by hand.”

“Would you be willing to trade?” Jim asked and showed the other merchant an inventory list with quantity and sell price listed. The list did not have the alchemical and crafting ingredients listed. Jim was saving those for Ari and the gnomes or Abel.

“I’ll take all of your potions and poultices, 20 bushels of potatoes, and both poison swords,” Billings answered after looking over the list. “That should be 1 gold and 86 silvers off my price.”

“Agreed,” Jim said after a moment. He produced the items requested and paid the remaining money. Billings handed him the books. “It was a pleasure doing business with you.”

“Jim, you may want to buy some more merchandise if that is all you have.”

“I’m working on that,” Jim said as Eloise exited the shop and held the door for Jim.

*

“No thoughts on Billings?” Jim asked Eloise as they returned to the wagon.

“None other than he is a too full of himself. Then again, a lot of merchants in little villages like this are like that. I think you also overpaid for the books. He knew you would want the alchemy book.”

“I have no doubt that you are correct in both assessments. I never had the chance in Raven’s Rest to see how much books sold for there,” Jim replied with a shrug. “I’m hoping this week or two is the last time I see Catfish Landing for a long time.”

“What makes you say that?” Remi asked when they rejoined her and Ariana.

“Just tired of being here.”

“And the attitude change,” Ari added from where she was stirring the pot. Jim briefly thought all that she needed was a black dress and pointed hat to complete the classic witch look if the pot was 5 times larger.

“I have a gift for you whenever you get done stirring whatever that is,” Jim told Ari.

“Oooh! What is it?”

“This,” Jim replied and held out the alchemy book. Ari’s eyes lit up. She dashed around the pot and hugged Jim before taking the book.

“Thank you!”

“I’m surprised the merchant here had something like that,” Remi said.

“So was I,” Jim agreed as Eloise nodded. “Well, if I’m not needed for anything else, I’m going to sit in the shade and start reading one of the other books I got.”

“Are you going to share them?” Eloise asked.

“Yeah. We can do that,” Jim answered as he plopped in his chair in the shade made by the wagon. Kayja joined him and demanded some attention before he could start reading.

*

“Here Jim,” Ari said and tossed a block underhanded at him so that it landed in his lap.

“Soap?” Jim guessed as he examined the block. It was a little larger than bars of soap from earth.

“Good guess and the correct one too,” Ari answered. “It’s a lemongrass soap with aloe mixed in. The first batch made 20 blocks of it.”

“Any idea how much it will sell for?” Jim asked as Eloise and Remi looked extremely interested in the soap.

“Honestly, none. I couldn’t afford soap in Raven’s Rest,” Ariana answered. She turned to the guards. “Any ideas?”

“Why did you add the aloe?” Remi asked. “Does it do anything?”

“It’s good for the skin and can help sooth rashes, burns, and the like. The lye-based soaps the inn here uses and that we got in Raven’s Rest are rather rough,” Ari answered. “The aloe should make the soap gentler to use. Or that is my hope anyway.”

“Soap is usually 25 coppers a block if you buy it. Most people don’t and will pay to take a bath at an inn where they can use whatever soap the inn buys,” Eloise said. The dwarf then grinned. “I say we test this tonight and see if it really works like you hope it does.”

“Eloise has a point,” Jim agreed. “If it is a better product than others make, we should be able to charge more.”

“If a single block lasts a month or so and can be used every day in a shower, I wouldn’t mind paying 50 coppers for it,” Eloise said. “The fragrance is nice too.”

“Yeah. I like the lemony scent. Several villagers said the same as they passed by today,” Remi agreed. “So, can we test it?”

“Yes,” Ariana grinned.

“Test what?” Rhett asked as he, Leo, and Abel joined the group.

“Ari’s lemongrass and aloe soap,” Remi answered. Jim handed the block or bar of soap to him. “Smell it.”

“That is nice. Is it lye soap?”

“No,” Ari answered. “It’s something different.”

“How different?” Leo asked.

“I used goat milk butter and lard as a base. One of the villagers traded me 2 pounds of it for 3 health poultices,” Ari explained. She turned to Jim. “You’re not mad I made a trade without telling you, are you?”

“No. I would appreciate being told about deals you make in the future though.”

“I promise I will.”

“Alright. That’s enough talk about soap,” Abel told the others. “Jim, do you mind cooking for us lad? The food at the inn isn’t nearly as good.”

“No, I don’t mind. I may start asking you guys to kick in on the food bill when we’re in villages and towns though.”

“That’s fair,” Abel agreed.

“How about some chicken and vegetables tonight?” Ariana asked.

“That will do nicely lass.”

Chapter 68

Jim had mostly read or helped Ariana the last week, so was surprised when Aaron and another fisherman approached him as he was reading Praha’s history.

“Jim, do you mind if I talk with you about your pens?” the fisherman asked. Jim raised an eyebrow in question and shrugged. The most he had sold was all of the chips and popcorn while the new wagon was being built. Ariana had traded some minor health potions and poultices for 2 dozen eggs, 3 gallons of milk, a pound of cheese, and 10 pounds of rice though.

“Sure,” he answered. Jim started answering questions while Aaron slipped over to see what Ariana was doing. Eloise and Remi exchanged looks but didn’t say anything. Ari wasn’t doing much as she was reading the alchemical book for the third time. After leveling twice to reach rank 5 in alchemy and using all of the ingredients they had gathered, she didn’t have much else to do. Jim had 202 potions to show for it in return as well as being another gold poorer. Some of the potions were what his guards considered normal strength. After using all the flasks and bottles Jim had left after making sake, he had to buy more flasks from Billings.

“Ariana, do you have a moment to talk?” Aaron asked. Ari looked up from her book and smiled.

“Sure.”

“I’ll get right to the point. Despite the company you keep, you have made quite an impact on our little village,” Aaron said. Ari’s smile faded. “We have never had an alchemist before and would like for you to stay. Everyone has seen how your skill has grown over the last week or so.”

“I will be leaving with Jim when he goes,” Ari replied. Jim’s enhanced hearing allowed him to hear their exchange over his conversation with the other fisherman.

“Why? Living in a village is safer and we would be willing to pay any sort of penalty if you have a contract with Jim,” Aaron offered. Ari frowned.

“I am leaving with Jim because we are partners,” Ari said. “And this is in the personal and the business sense of the word.”

“Oh.”

“I appreciate your offer, but decline,” Ariana replied and stood up. Eloise and Remi took a step toward Arron. Ari turned to walk to the wagon’s porch and called over her shoulder, “Good day.”

“Come on Tim,” Aaron called to the fisherman as he walked off. Ari entered the wagon. Jim turned to look at his guards.

“We may want to leave soon,” Remi told him.

“Aye,” Eloise agreed. Jim stood and walked to where Peggy and Al were eating grass a few feet away.

“How soon until the wagon is finished?” Jim asked. He knew it was close to being finished.

“Dad will install the stove pipe this afternoon,” Remi answered. “The brakes are done, and they think they will finish the rest tomorrow morning.”

“We’ll leave tomorrow afternoon if that is the case,” Jim said as he rubbed his mules.

*

Asher and Ella were on gate duty when Rhett, on the remaining pony, led the two wagons to it. Ella asked, “Heading out?”

“Yeah. We’re heading towards Diamond Shoals,” Rhett answered for the group. Jim had decided that would be the cover story and the group would go cross country and circle back after putting a mile or so between themselves and the village. Jim mused on salt. It always cost a gold per pound to buy from merchants and was the only fixed price he had seen on Stormgion, but he had no idea how much it cost to buy from a mine.

“What are you thinking about,” Ari asked from her usual spot on the doorway floor rubbing kayja.

“Just thinking about how salt is the only fixed price I’ve seen or heard of. Nobody can negotiate it either.”

“The royal family has always controlled the salt mines and sets the price,” Ari replied with a shrug.

“That throws a wrench into my plans.”

“The gnomes have salt?” Ari calmly asked. Jim tapped the side of his nose in answer. “What does that mean?”

“It means you’re onto something that is a secret.”

“Oh.”

“Want to drive for a while?”

“Nope. I’m going to read my alchemy book some more,” Ari answered with a smile.

“You’ve read it, what, three times already?”

“So?”

“You’re not sick of it yet?”

“No. I’m trying to memorize everything.”

“You’re as bad as I am, if not worse.”

“That’s another reason you love me,” Ari grinned. “Don’t worry, I love you too.”

“I…”

“Loss for words?”

“No. You’re right.”

“I know,” Ari replied as she opened the book.

*

“Jim, are you sure we need to leave the wagons here?” Leo asked.

“Yeah. I don’t want to make the trail to the gnomes’ village easy to find.”

“Alright. Give us a few minutes to hide them better and we can ride the ponies and mules to the village,” Remi added.

“Works for me,” Jim agreed as he patted Kayja.

*

“Jim, are we lost?” Ari asked.

“No. Maybe. I don’t think so.”

“Alright. We’re turning around and going back to the wagons,” Remi said.

“Then we’ll start heading to Diamond Shoals,” Eloise added.

“You go nowhere little big!” a diminutive voice said from the tree branch over Eloise’s head. Everyone looked up to see three gnomes on the tree branch.

One whistled and 20 more gnomes appeared to surround the group. Those closest to the mules glanced up and realized what was before them. They all jumped back screaming, “Jim stinky devil has brought back the terrible beasts!”

“Not again,” Jim muttered. Then louder, “Nobody draw weapons!”

“Jim stinky devil?” Ari and the dwarves all asked at once.

“I can’t wait to hear this story,” Leo said. Jim looked around and spotted a gnome he thought he recognized.

“Caelan, is that you?”

“Yes, Jim stinky devil. It is I,” the gnome answered. “Why you here and bring the jackstocks back? We no want them.”

A female gnome dropped from another branch onto Peggy, which Jim was riding. She sniffed him. “Jim stinky devil no longer stink. He smells good.”

“Hello Ainslee,” Jim greeted the gnome. She jumped onto Al and sniffed Ari as well. “I’m glad you think so.”

“Elf smells good too.”

“I’ve come to trade,” Jim announced. “I’ll take the jackstocks with me when we leave.”

“Elders said you come back after winter,” Graeme said.

“I remember. But I was in the area and have things I think the elders will want.”

“Alright. Come with us Jim stinky devil,” Caelan said. “The rest stay here.”

“They come with me or no trade,” Jim threatened.

“Then we wait. I send runner to ask elders,” Caelan replied. “Ainslee, stop sniffing the elf.”

Chapter 69

“Jim, can we live with the gnomes?” Ari asked as she looked from flower to flower along the way to the village.

“Why you ask?” Ainslee asked Ari. The gnome was sitting in front of Ari on Al.

“All of these flowers have medicinal properties,” Ari answered. She pointed to a cluster of yellow flowers. “Those are Calendula. They are great for making a salve or poultice for cuts. Those purple ones are Bee Balm. It’s another great healing ingredient.”

“It’s good in tea too,” Ainslee added. “Shaman also uses for medicine.”

“I should have known you would go nuts for the flowers,” Jim said.

“Can you blame me? Comfrey, chamomile, passionflower, and even feverfew!”

“No. We’ll see if the gnomes will trade for some of them,” Jim answered with a smile as they entered the village on foot. The ponies and jackstocks had been left outside the village to eat grass. Ainslee had stayed with the animals. The elders and shaman were waiting in the village square.

“We greet Jim stinky devil,” the elders and shaman said together. Ari and the dwarves laughed while Jim shook his head.

“I greet the elders and shaman,” Jim replied. “May I introduce my companions?”

“Yes,” Angus answered. Jim introduced the guards, smith, and alchemist to the gnomes. The trio of gnomes perked up when he heard that Ariana was an alchemist, especially Keir.

“I will speak with your alchemist while you and elders discuss trade,” Keir suddenly announced.

“I look forward to speaking with you,” Ari replied as the gnome led her to the side. Eloise and Remi followed.

“What do you want to trade for?” Angus asked.

“I was hoping to trade for salt, some apples, and flowers for Ariana to use,” Jim answered as he pulled his table and two chairs out. The elders climbed up in one while Jim took the other.

“Ok. What do you offer?” Callum asked.

“A mountain drake skin, a rock cat hide, their teeth, and claws to start.”

“Show,” Callum ordered. Jim complied. The villagers that were watching got excited as did the elders.

“We give 20 pounds of salt for drake skin. It will make much armor,” Angus offered after speaking quietly with Callum. Abel coughed.

“For the teeth and claws, we give six bushels of six types of flowers,” Callum added. The elder clarified, “One bushel for each flower.”

“I accept that deal.”

“Good. For cat skin, we give 2 pounds of salt,” Angus offered.

“I would prefer apples for the cat skin,” Jim countered. “20 bushels of apples and 1 pound of salt would do nicely.”

“We need that food.”

“I have food I can trade as well.”

“Ok, we trade 20 bushels of apples and 1 pound of salt for cat skin,” Callum agreed after another discussion with Angus. “What kind of food do you have to trade, and will you take metal for it?”

“What kind of metal?” Abel asked.

“Ah. Dwarven smith. You will like,” Angus assured. He turned and ordered a gnome to fetch something.

“I have rice, flour, bison meat, tomatoes, tomato juice, and some potatoes,” Jim replied to the earlier question. “I also have some rice wine known as sake.”

“Will you give taste of wine?” Callum asked.

“Yes,” Jim agreed. He pulled two bottles from his inventory. “I have two different flavors.”

Each elder produced a cup. Jim gave them a small sample of the regular sake. After they sniffed and then drained the cups, Jim gave them a sample of the apple flavored sake. They sniffed and drained it too.

“Good!” Angus exclaimed. The runner he had sent off returned with two ore samples. “Ah. Good timing.”

“Mithril and titanium!” Abel said in wonder after Inspecting the samples. Jim Inspected them as well.

“Mithril good for enchanting and armor. Titanium good for armor too,” Callum said. “We do not use metal armor, so willing to trade.”

“Will the sake keep?” Angus asked.

“Yes. Keep it in a cool and dark place though,” Jim warned. “Unopened bottles can last up to two years.”

“How much are you willing to trade?” Callum asked.

“Same question to you. How much of the metal are you willing to trade?”

“We trade 50 pounds of mithril ore and 50 of titanium,” Callum answered after another discussion with Angus.

“We want all sake, all health potions and poultices, and mana potions in exchange,” Angus said after Keir joined them. Ari was standing with the guards.

“I’ll trade 20 bottles of each sake, 20 pounds of flour, seven bushels of potatoes, 10 pounds of bison meat, 50 minor health potions, and 50 poultices for the metal ore,” Jim countered. Since the gnomes didn’t seem to value the metal, he didn’t mind trying to work things more to his advantage. “I also have 20 gnome sized spears and 25 pickaxes I can trade.”

“Show spear and pickaxe,” Angus ordered. Jim complied. “Iron, but good work. We will trade another 10 pounds of each ore for them.”

“We also accept the food, poultices, sake, and potions for ore trade,” Callum said. He sent a few gnomes to bring the ore to them.

“I accept the trade as well,” Jim replied. His merchandise disappeared into waiting gnome hands as quickly as he took it out of his inventory. Abel looked giddy as the gnomes started pushing carts of ore into view. A few other villagers brought the apples and flowers. Jim was surprised that the bushels were the same size as the taller races used.

“You surprised gnomes use big baskets?” Angus asked him.

“Yes.”

“Big baskets make storage easier. Plus, we got them long ago in trade. Makes sense to use them.”

“That it does,” Jim agreed as he placed the apples and ore into his inventory. Ari took the flowers.

“Will Jim take another 40 pounds of each ore for more potions and poultices?” Callum asked.

“Yes,” Jim answered. “I have 50 more of each. I also have some mana potions if Keir needs them.”

“I do,” the shaman said. “I will give 20 more bushels of flowers for all of them.”

“What do you think Ari?”

“It’s a good trade,” Ariana answered. Jim trusted her judgment when it came to alchemy and didn’t question Ari about her answer. He just accepted the trade. She took the flowers when they were brought to them.

“Ainslee said you had something that made you smell better. She is right,” Angus said. What is it and will you trade it?”

“It is soap. I will trade 10 of these,” Jim produced a bar of soap. “You use it when you bathe.”

“I will trade one bushel of turmeric root for 15 soaps,” Keir replied. Ari looked like she wanted to jump up and down in joy.

“I accept,” Jim said. He noticed he leveled while waiting for the turmeric to be brought to them. No stat points to use, but Inspect and Bartering had gone up, so he was happy.

*

“Lad, you came out well in your trading. Those ores will allow me to make exceptionally good armor that will command a high price. If we can find an enchanter, the price will be even higher. The mithril can be used to create weapons too,” Abel informed Jim as they returned to the wagons.

“And I’ll be able to make some really good potions, salves, and poultices,” Ari added. She kissed Jim’s cheek after he hobbled the mules for the night.

“Venison for supper?” Leo asked.

“Sure,” Remi answered. “Eloise and I will cook so we can give Jim and Ari a break.”

“Kayja, where are you hiding?” Jim asked aloud. The wolf came out from under the Jim’s wagon. He had left her so as not to frighten the gnomes. “I’m going to play with my pet since you guys are cooking.”

“I’m going to start deciding which flowers to use first,” Ari said.

“Take a break lass. You can do that in the morning while we’re on the road,” Abel advised.

“Alright,” Ari replied after a moment of thought. She sat in the grass to play with Kayja too.

“I’ll tend the ponies,” Rhett offered.

“Guess that means I get to patrol the camp,” Leo playfully grumbled.

“You do it well too,” Jim joked.

“I know. I’ll be expecting a bonus when we get paid for doing such a good job patrolling too.”

“I didn’t say you were doing that good of a job at it.”

“Ha. Jim might be part dwarf. He doesn’t like parting with his coin no more than we do,” Eloise joked.

“I’m here to make money not spend it more than needed,” Jim agreed.

“Spoken like a true dwarf,” Abel replied.

Chapter 70

Ari cackled as she finished making a new potion. Jim, Kayja, and the others looked her way. She noticed their attention after they fell silent. She looked up and around the group. “What?”

“Are you trying to become a witch?” Eloise asked.

“You’re scaring the wolves,” Remi added. The group had stopped at Clarence’s farm and bought two level 4 white and black aki wolves as well as a level 5 gray wolf. Eloise and Remi had bought the white and black wolves. Jim had bought the gray for Ariana and Kayja. The wolves had cost them 20 gold. The white female was named May and the black male named Rex. Ariana named the gray Dusk.

“No. Why? And I am not,” Ari retorted while glancing down at Dusk laying near her.

“You cackled like one love,” Jim answered after updating his inventory. The others nodded in agreement.

“We are starting to worry about you,” Leo added.

“Sorry. I leveled to 5 and finally got the major health potions to work,” Ari replied.

“You’ve leveled very quickly,” Rhett said.

“With the way she has poured herself into her work, she should have,” Abel replied. “Congratulations lass.”

“Thank you,” Ari replied. The others congratulated her too. She gave Jim the dozen major health potions. She had created a burn salve, minor health poultices and potions, as well as standard health potions during their journey. Jim had stuck with the crafting mornings and traveling afternoons. “I’m out of flasks now, so I’ll stop working.”

“That’s good. We should make it to Diamond Shoals by sunset if we don’t run into anything else,” Leo said.

The last week had been a slow journey. Kayja had leveled again while hunting during the trip as had the guards due to fighting off bandits. Jim’s weapons and armor inventory had grown by 100 arrows, 4 yew bows, 5 steel swords, 10 sets of chainmail armor, and a bunch of iron weapons and armor that Abel melted down into ingots. The smith had not leveled though. The wolves had contributed 3 plains deer which gave them 3 hides and 300 pounds of venison as well after claiming their share of the kills.

The bandits’ camp had given the group 20 blood steel ingots, 100 steel ingots, 100 iron ingots, 100 bolts of fabric, 40 bushels of corn, 11 bushels of potatoes, 10 bushels of peas, 10 bushels of butterbeans, 14 bushels of string beans, 9 bushels of onions, 4 bushels of cucumbers, 9 bushels of carrots, 4 bushels of lettuce, 500 pounds of fish, which might have been mackerel, 5 level 8 kodiak cave bears pelts, 2 small storage rings, 1 large storage ring, 20 travelers’ packs, 25 gold, 30 silvers, and 50 coppers. The large storage ring was quite gaudy and worth 50 gold. The bandits had also claimed 5 sets of enchanted pants and shirts. While not as nice as Jim’s elven clothes, he decided to keep them at Ari’s urging. It was a nice haul. Remi thought the bandits had been in business for quite a while.

“Let’s get this show on the road,” Jim told the others, and they broke camp.

*

“If this city has the same sort of scam that Barrett’s family started pulling in Raven’s Rest, we’ll leave here and go somewhere else,” Jim said as they waited in line to enter the city.

“Hopefully, it wouldn’t be that bad,” Ari replied.

“If it is, I suggest we move to another kingdom,” Eloise said from the other seat. The line gradually moved, and Leo motioned to the wagons. It had been his turn to ride the pony and lead the way. Four of the guards came back to inspect the two wagons while Leo talked to a fifth.

“I’m guard Mavis and this is guard Keyla. We need to inspect your wagon,” the first guard stated.

“We have two aki wolves in each wagon,” Jim warned. He hopped down after setting the brake so the guard could climb up. “We don’t have anything to hide, so have at it.”

“Thank you. Would you mind calling the wolves out,” Mavis asked.

“Sure,” Jim answered and called the wolves out. Kayja obeyed, but Dusk did not until Ari sent him out. Jim patted the wolves. “You’re not shocked by them?”

“No. There are plenty of people that use them as guardians and hunters that do business in the city,” Mavis answered. Keyla climbed into the wagon and started their inspection.

“Interesting.”

“I suppose you use storage rings since I don’t see anything more than the simple coin purse on your belt.”

“Correct.”

“Would you consider showing me your inventory?”

“I can give you a list.”

“That helps, but you could still be hiding something. We have an enchanted tool that will scan your inventory for drugs and other banned substances and items. Will you consent for me to use it on your ring?”

“Will it damage my ring?”

“No. You have my word that it will not.”

“Then I agree.”

“Thank you. This will take just a moment.”

*

“Just a few questions and we will be done,” Mavis told Jim.

“Alright.”

“Are you planning on staying in the city long?”

“This wagon has a lot of enchantments,” Keyla said as she rejoined them. The wolves re-entered the wagon.

“Yeah, it does,” Ari agreed. “We want to get the other wagon setup the same way while we are here.”

“That will take a few days,” Keyla informed them.

“I also plan to sell some things while here,” Jim replied. “I guess we’ll plan on being here two weeks. Maybe less.”

“Alright,” Mavis said. “It’ll be 2 silvers for a license to sell things for two weeks.”

“That’s a lot higher than Raven’s Rest,” Eloise observed.

“True. We don’t set the fee. We just enforce it.”

“Is there a place we can park the wagons?” Ari asked.

“There is a merchant square that traveling merchants use. There are two liveries at the square. One on each end. They generally charge 50 coppers a week to stable an animal,” Mavis answered.

“Merchants that live in the city have permanent stands in a different market square or their own shops,” Keyla added.

“May I see a map of the city?” Jim asked.

“Yes. I’ll point out the districts and market squares for you,” Mavis answered. Jim used inspect on the map and added the locations to his map.

“Thank you,” Jim said as he paid the 2 silvers.

“I’ll be right back with your permit,” Mavis informed him. She moved off to a doorway beside the gate. Keyla and the other two guards joined the others at the gate. Mavis returned a few minutes later and gave Jim his pass and license. “Here you go.”

“Thanks again,” Jim said as he released the brake.

“Good luck with your trading. If you have weapons and armor, we’ll stop by later to check out your wares.”

“I have those, potions, and poultices amongst other goods,” Jim said as he got the mules started again. Jim checked and dismissed a notice. Inspect had leveled again. Mavis nodded and waved them through the gate.

{Congratulations! Inspect has reached level 10 and can advance to Appraise. Appraise returns more information on things inspected and will show true values on items that may be bought or sold. Do you wish to upgrade the skill? Y/N}

Jim smiled and upgraded his skill.

{

Jim Merchant

Level: 6

Class: Merchant

Health: 160

Stamina: 160

Strength(6)

Endurance(6)

Dexterity(7)

Charisma(15)

Intelligence(12)

Wisdom(10)

Luck(12)

Skills: Appraise(1)

Bartering(4)

Harvesting(2)

Invention(4)

Strategy(1)

Tactics(1)

Gold:37

Silver:96

Copper:82

}

Chapter 71

They parked the wagons just outside of the Jon’s Livery. The livery had a paddock for the animals to roam around in which pleased Jim. A dwarven man came out of the stable to greet them. “I’m Jon. Looking to stable your animals?”

“We are,” Leo answered as he was closest. Leo dismounted. “How much do you charge?”

“How many animals and for how long?”

“Five ponies and two mules for two weeks”

“Those aren’t mules lad. Those are monsters!”

“Don’t talk about Al and Peggy like that,” Jim said as he joined the two. “My jackstocks are easy to tend to as long as they are properly cared for.”

“I’ve seen jackstocks before, never any like those two. What happened to them?”

“I’m not sure. I acquired them while traveling. The ones I got them from had said something about them eating a particular plant and that they changed after doing so.”

“Do you know what plant?” Jon asked with a gleam in his eyes.

“I’m not an alchemist nor skilled in identifying plants, so I’m afraid not. The people that I traded them from never said either,” Jim shrugged.

“Too bad.”

“Aye,” Leo agreed. “Then again, it’s probably a good thing.”

“That is true too,” Jon agreed. “Getting back to price, I’ll charge you a silver a week per animal. Jon gestured to the paddock and continued, “I promise they will be well taken care of. They will even get some exercise and sun in the yard here.”

“May we check on them anytime we want?” Leo asked.

“Aye. I have workers in from sunrise to two hours after sunset. You can check on them anytime during those hours. There is a room that someone always sleeps in inside the stable too, if you’re worried about the animals at night.”

“Jon, we have a deal,” Jim said and paid the man. Jon yelled for some of his helpers to come and take the ponies and mules into the stable. Jim, Leo, and Rhett saw the animals stabled and took the time to care for them along with the stableboys.

“I love seeing that,” Jon told the trio as they exited the stable. “Most folks don’t care for their animals the way they should and leave it to others to do so. I promise my lads will take extra care for your animals.”

“Thank you. We also have some aki wolves. I don’t want to stable them as they will help guard our wagons,” Jim quickly explained after seeing the look on Jon’s face. “But might they make use of the paddock to run around in and do their… business.”

“Aye, that is acceptable. Might I ask where you acquired the wolves? I’ve seen others with them at times and have often thought they would make good animals to have around the stable at night.”

“Are horse thieves a problem?” Rhett asked.

“At times,” Jon answered.

“We got them from Clarence’s farm just outside Swift River,” Jim said answering the stablemaster’s question.

“Thank ye for the information. I may pay his farm a visit next month.”

“You’re welcome,” Jim replied. “We have a blacksmith with us. Is there a place he can set up around here?”

“Hmmm. You cannot setup in the market square, but I could rent out space behind the stable. I will even let it go in trade if he’ll shoe some horses for me.”

“I’ll let Abel know and let him talk it over with you in the morning,” Jim replied.

“Sounds good,” Jon agreed. He left them and the trio returned to Jim’s wagon.

“It’s too late to seek out an enchanter today,” Eloise said when the three joined the others. “Jim, we would like to use your shower and sleep in our wagon tonight.”

“I agreed already,” Ari told him when he glanced her way.

“Alright,” Jim shrugged. He squatted and rubbed Kayja’s head. “Are we cooking again or getting something from an inn?”

“I say we see what the inns have,” Leo opined. Rhett agreed.

“I would rather have some more venison. We can make our own stew,” Remi replied. Abel and Eloise agreed with her. Ari shrugged as she didn’t care one way or the other.

“Who cooks the stew if we have it?” Jim asked.

“We will,” Eloise answered.

“That will be fine with me.”

“Alright you two. Clean up and help us cutup some potatoes and carrots,” Remi ordered her husband and Leo.

“Yes dear.”

*

“Blaire’s Brilliant Enchantments,” Rhett read the cracked and fading sign out loud. The building was more than a little run down in comparison to the other enchanters shops they had visited that morning. “This sign and building do not inspire confidence.”

“Folks say Blaire is one of the better enchanters in the city,” Abel replied. “They also say she is fair.”

“Let’s go in and talk to the lady,” Jim said as he opened the shop’s door. A bell chimed as the trio entered.

“I’m Blaire,” an older elf with green eyes and hair so blonde it was almost white said from behind a counter. “How may I help you?”

“My name is Jim, and I am a traveling merchant. We want to know if you have the time and skill needed to make some enchantments to my guards’ wagon,” Jim answered.

“Do you want it to withstand wear, fire, and the like?”

“That and a few other enchantments to make it more livable,” Jim answered. “I had my wagon enchanted in Raven’s Rest by Enoch. We want the same enchantments done to the guards’ wagon.”

“Enoch is a good enchanter. Why didn’t he do both?”

“We didn’t have our wagon at the time,” Rhett answered. “It was built in the last month in Catfish Landing.”

“If you don’t mind me asking, why didn’t you return to Raven’s Rest and have Enoch do it? The Rest is much closer to the Landing than the Shoals.”

“Business conflicts,” Jim answered.

“Fair enough. I will not press the issue. How soon would you need these enchantments done?”

“We are here for two weeks or less,” Jim answered. “In that timeframe.”

“My business is slow. I can do that. Will you show me the enchantments on your wagon? We can then discuss price.”

“That’s fair,” Jim answered. “And if we have time, I may have other merchandise I would like you to enchant.”

“Oh?”

“I’ll show you after we talk about the wagon.”

“Alright. Kyra, come dear. Let’s take a look at these gentlemen’s wagons,” Blaire called to the back of the shop. A young dwarf woman came out.

“Wagons?”

“Yes. We may have a big job to do.”

“Gentlemen, this is my apprentice, Kyra.”

“It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance,” Abel said. Rhett and Jim nodded in agreement. Rhett rolled his eyes when only Jim could see. Jim shook his head.

“If you’ll give me a moment, I’ll lock up the shop and we can go,” Blaire told them as she ushered everyone outside.

*

“These are quite the enchantments. I really love the stovetop and bathroom,” Blaire told them after checking the outer enchantments. It’ll probably take us ten days to engrave the enchantments.”

“You can use one of these pens to speed up the process,” Jim told the enchantress while holding up a pen for her to see. Enoch and his daughter got done in under five days using pens.”

“May I see one too?” Kyra asked.

“Yes,” Jim answered and handed one to each of them.

“How much do you charge for these pens?” Kyra asked. “And are they good for anything else?”

“We use them to write instead of quills,” Ari answered and showed the other woman how.

“I charge 18 silvers per pen,” Jim added.

“I see what you mean. Writing instead of carving would speed things up considerably though the engravings would not be quite as deep. That will not matter though,” Blaire said in thought. “Would you trade some of these pens for a discount on the work?”

“That be a problem lass,” Abel cut in. “We are paying for our wagon, not Jim.”

“Are you the one that made the stovetop?” Blaire asked in a quick change of subject.

“Aye. A friend helped.”

“How much would you charge to build me one for my home and shop?” Blaire asked. Abel shot Jim a look.

“Pay for whatever metal you use if you want to build one for her,” Jim offered. “I can wait a day or two for you to start crafting new stuff for me. We also talked about maybe selling the stoves, so you could always make two.”

“I’ll do the enchanting for 20 gold depending on what you charge for the stove,” Blaire offered picking up on Jim’s terminology.

“One gold for the stove,” Abel replied. Blaire nodded in agreement. She turned to Jim.

“How much for a dozen pens?”

“As I told Kyra, I charge 18 silvers per pen. So, 2 gold 16 silvers for a dozen. Before we get to that, finish with Abel and the others. Then I’ll show you want I want enchanted and we can work on a trade.”

“Alright. I suppose the Trader Jim’s on the front of your wagon is more than for show,” Blaire laughed.

“That’s true,” Jim agreed.

*

“We will enchant the 15 grills and stove for 10 gold. The stove will have the same enchantments that yours has. The grills will have a simple heat on and off enchantment,” Blaire said. “The 2 war hammers will be enchanted with an extra force rune as well as a durability rune. The 5 swords will be enchanted with to stay sharp and produce fire. The weapons will cost another 10 gold to enchant. That is 20 gold total.”

“Ok. Take off the 2 gold and 16 silvers for the pens. Kyra also said you liked the soap Ari made. I’ll trade you 10 bars of it for another 5 silvers off the price.”

“50 coppers a piece is steep, but since I haven’t seen soap like that before, I accept.”

“That means I owe you 16 gold and 90 silvers.”

“We have a deal,” Blaire replied.

“We do indeed,” Jim agreed. “I’ll pay you half now and the other half when you finish my items.”

“That is acceptable,” Blaire agreed and put the 10 gold the dwarves had paid her into her inventory. Jim gave her 8 gold and 45 silvers, which also disappeared into her inventory. Blaire and Kyra stood. “We will be here tomorrow morning one hour after sunrise. Is there anything else we need to discuss?”

“It’s not a need, but is there a good bookseller nearby?” Ariana asked.

“I’ll go talk to Jon about using his back lot,” Abel informed them and wandered off.

“Going to look for books?” Leo asked.

“Aye,” Jim replied.

“I’ll stay here with Rhett.”

“Alright,” Jim replied as he, Eloise, Remi, and Ari stood.

“If you’ll follow me,” Kyra said. “I’ll be glad to lead you to the book seller.”

Chapter 72

“I can’t believe you two bought so many books,” Remi said.

“What do you mean you two? Jim paid for everything,” Ari replied.

“He still bought 5 different alchemy books for you.”

“That’s true,” Ari grinned. “He also bought books on cooking, history, an atlas, religion, philosophy, myths, magic, and legends.”

“Still, 10 gold worth of books just to keep from being bored?”

“I like to read,” Jim shrugged.

“You’re willing to share these too, aren’t you?” Eloise asked.

“Yeah.”

“You could take up a hobby like wood carving,” Remi retorted.

“Maybe I will after I read all the books I can find,” Jim replied. “Or maybe in addition to reading at some point.”

“Why didn’t you offer mithril in trade to the enchanter?” Ari asked.

“Abel seems to have something in mind for it.”

“He does. Dad is excited to be able to try and craft a higher tier armor with the titanium and mithril,” Remi explained.

“What about the blood steel?” Jim asked.

“That’s nothing special,” Eloise answered. “Other than the color, the metal is the same. Blood steel gets its name from its blood red color.”

“Ah. Thanks. Keep your eyes open. We need to find a place to buy flasks, bottles, and jars.”

“Planning on making more of your tomato juice?”

“Maybe. Mostly I was thinking small jars for Ari’s salves.”

“Ok,” Eloise replied. The trio walked in silence for several minutes. A sign up ahead read Williamson’s Wholesale. “Looks like there is a general merchant up on the left. Do you want to try them?”

“Yeah,” Jim answered. Eloise started pushing through the crowd to force a path.

*

“Welcome to Williamson’s Wholesale,” a clerk at a counter by the door greeted them. The storefront was a small open room with a few chairs scattered about. There was no rear wall and the room opened into a larger warehouse that was filled with rows upon rows of just about any general goods someone could ask for. “I’m Ted. Can I assist you?”

“Yes Ted, you may. I am Jim Merchant, and these are my companions, Ariana, Eloise, and Remi. We need flasks, bottles, and jars.”

“We have a wide array of each. Do you know what sizes you need?”

“Standard flasks used for potions,” Ari answered. Jim showed the clerk one of the bottles he had been using for sake.

“Bottles like that too?” Ted asked as he made a notation sheet of parchment.

“Yes. Quart jars as well as some smaller jars that could be used for salves,” Jim replied.

“Considering your last name, I assume you are a trader or merchant,” Ted said looking at Jim. He nodded in agreement. “Is one of you an alchemist?”

“I am,” Ariana answered.

“We have some small jars that will work. We also have some small tins that other alchemists have used as well,” Ted informed them. He rang a bell on the counter. “Let me send a runner to get a sample of what we have and then you can decide what you would like, if that is acceptable?”

“It is.”

“Excellent. Why don’t you all take a seat while we wait. It should be a few minutes. Would you like water, juice, tea, or coffee while we wait?”

“What kind of juice?” Ari asked.

“Strawberry. The tea is birch. It is a little on the bitter side though.”

“I’ll have the juice,” Ari replied.

“Coffee for us,” Remi answered while gesturing to her sister and herself.

“I’ll take a coffee as well,” Jim replied. “Do you have coffee for sale too?”

“We do indeed,” Ted smiled. “I’ll be right back with your refreshments.”

“This might get expensive,” Jim told the others while he sat.

“You’re not spending all your money on coffee,” Ariana warned. “I have herbs that make a great substitute. They just have to finish drying out first.”

“We could have dried them over a fire,” Jim replied.

“Only if you wanted to ruin the flavor.”

“We don’t want that and neither does Jim,” Eloise said.

“That’s true,” Jim agreed. Pulling out his pen and notebook Jim said, “I wonder if they will accept trades.”

“We do accept trades,” Ted informed Jim when he returned with their drinks. He noticed the pen and notebook. “What is that?”

“This is a fountain pen and notebook. “Let me show you how it works.”

“Hold on please. Let me get the boss. Mrs. Williamson will want to see that. She loves new inventions.”

“Ok.”

*

“I’ll trade you 300 flasks, 150 tins, and 100 of the small jars for 30 pens,” Wilma Williamson offered.

“Make it 200 tins and we have a deal,” Jim countered.

“I can do that. We have a deal.”

“Excellent. Do you want my fish?”

“500 pounds?”

“Yes.”

“But you want coffee too?”

“I do.”

“I’ll do 75 pounds of coffee for the fish and 300 pounds of venison. That is being more than generous too.”

“Deal,” Jim said after a moment’s thought. He figured that was roughly 2 gold or so in cost. Besides, he had gotten one over on her by charging full price for the pens.

“Fantastic,” Wilma replied. “Teddy be sure you keep good notes.”

“I am, ma’am,” the clerk replied. “This new pen and notebook work amazingly well.”

“Jim, will you be wanting a grinder for the coffee beans? They are 1 gold.”

“Would you accept a Kodiak Cave Bear pelt in trade? The bear was at least level 8.”

“Will you show it to me?”

“Of course,” Jim answered and showed the hide to the wholesaler. He used Appraise on it and coughed.

{Kodiak Cave Bear Hide Level 10 Value 1 Gold True Worth 40 Silvers}

“Jim, are you alright?” Ariana asked.

He took a sip of coffee. “I’m ok. Just a tickle in my throat.”

“Ok,” she replied though she didn’t look convinced. Jim used Appraise on her and the others. He could kick himself for not using it since upgrading the skill.

{Ariana Level 5 Alchemist Level 2 Thief No threat}

{Eloise Level 13 Guard No threat}

{Remi Level 13 Guard No threat}

{Wilma Williamson Level 6 Merchant No threat}

{Ted Williamson Level 5 Guard Level 2 Merchant No threat}

“I will accept the hide in trade,” Wilma replied. Jim wanted to jump for joy because of the new information the skill provided and the trade. “Is there anything else you need?”

“I don’t think so.”

“Maybe some herbs,” Ari interjected.

“Yes, herbs,” Jim agreed to chuckles from the women.

*

Jim used Appraise on the coffee grinder after they exited the shop. He had ended up trading another bear hide for 50 bushels of flowers, herbs, weeds, and other plants before all was said and done.

{Coffee grinder Value 1 Gold True Worth 20 Silvers}

“I knew it!”

“What’s wrong?” Remi asked as her and Eloise looked around for a threat.

“The coffee grinder is really only worth 20 silvers. She took me behind the woodshed on that trade.”

“How do you know it is worth that?” Ari asked.

“I upgraded Inspect to Appraise and used it for the first time today. It shows me an object’s true worth,” Jim quietly told the trio of women.

“That is interesting,” Remi replied. “Does it show anything else.”

“It does. I’ll explain later.”

“You win some and you lose some,” Ari told Jim as she looped her arm through his. “Let’s get back to the wagons. “I’m sure the others are about ready for lunch. I know I am.”

“And we need to check on Blaire’s and Kyra’s progress,” Eloise added.

Chapter 73

Three days passed with Jim making no sales. The wagons received more attention than Jim’s wares did. The only time Jim’s wares had attracted attention was when he grilled burgers or chicken for his group, Blaire, and Kyra. And that ended up being people wanting to buy a snack or lunch instead of people interested in buying a lot of meat, vegetables, or a grill.

“Don’t look so sad,” Ari told Jim as she poured some health potion into a flask. “Start calling out your wares like the other merchants are doing.”

“I might have too many different things to sell. Most of them are only calling out potions, vegetables, meat, or whatever since they are focused on selling only certain things.”

“There are other general merchants here.”

“Those have the prime spots at the entrances to the market too.”

“Yeah, that’s true.”

“You might need a different way to draw people in,” Eloise said. “You always get a crowd when you grill.”

“Yeah. I need to think about it,” Jim replied as he packed away his wares. “That is why I had wanted Ari to be a sales assistant originally and prefer having you two around the table as guards. Men love looking at beautiful women.”

“Thanks, I think,” Ari grinned along with Eloise and Remi. Jim smiled back.

“Jim, it’s only 10 in the morning,” Remi informed him.

“I know. Up until now I have been winging things and I can’t keep doing that.”

“What do you mean? You seem quite knowledgeable,” Remi replied as Ari looked at Jim with some concern.

“I really don’t know what I’m doing. I’ve been paying attention to other merchants and using what little knowledge I have of retail from…home,” Jim admitted while watching the people passing by.

“What is retail?” Ari asked.

“The short version is that is what we call the stores or shops that sell things back home.”

“Oh. It’s different than here?”

“Yes. The goods sold there are generally mass produced as cheaply as possible by assembly lines,” Jim answered. Seeing their expressions, he continued, “For example, Abel makes a sword blade, Remi makes the sword’s hilt and handle and adds it to the blade, Eloise wraps the handle and sharpens the blade, and finally Ari makes the sheath. Rhett delivers the sword to Leo. He then sells the sword at a cheap price to me. I charge twice as much or more to my customers.”

“That seems overly complicated,” Eloise observed. “But it isn’t too far off from what you’re doing now.”

“True on both counts. Now imagine everyone doing the making and assembling all day every day except for Rhett and Leo while making dozens of swords that way a day,” Jim replied. They looked surprised.

“I get why Leo doesn’t do his part every day,” Eloise said. “Why doesn’t Rhett deliver every day if we are doing our parts every day?”

“He is waiting to get a certain amount before delivering to Leo,” Ari guessed.

“Exactly! Say Leo wants 100 swords before he’ll take delivery. Rhett has to wait until you guys make that many.”

“I get it. Even making dozens a day it could take two days or more to make 100 swords,” Remi said. The others nodded in agreement.

“Now multiply that by thousands,” Jim replied with a grin. The women gasped in surprise. Holding up a hand to forestall any objections, Jim continued, “Before you say it is impossible, take the hole puncher and paper cutter Abel made for me. Look how much easier those machines made making notebooks. Imagine machines that can do the same for basically everything else and you’ll have how things are made where I’m from.”

“That is mind boggling, but I think I get it,” Eloise said. Ariana and Remi replied that they did as well. “But what about craftsmen?”

“There are some and they make things by hand using simple machines or in the case of blacksmiths, with hammers like Abel does. Those items are usually sought out by people with a lot of money because they want hand crafted goods or are collectors. And they pay a premium price for those goods too.”

“Jim, you may have a better understanding of what you’re doing than you give yourself credit for,” Ari told him with a smile. “Now, come and help me with these potion flasks to take your mind off things.”

“Alright and thanks,” Jim replied as he rubbed Kayja. “That goes for Remi and Eloise too.” Jim eyed Dusk, who was sitting beside Ariana. “He’s going to let me get close to you, right?”

“Maybe,” Ari grinned. “There is only one way to find out.”

*

“Ari?”

“What is it?” she sleepily asked while pulling the cover a little higher and snuggling closer to Jim later that night.

“How do people know they level? I know you guys had said something before about having to visit a priest or elder.”

“You want to talk about this now?”

“I’ve wanted to know more about it ever since that first conversation, but it’s slipped my mind until now.”

“We know we have leveled up because we get a moment of where the world seems…more. Colors are more vibrant as is everything else. Then it fades back to normal. We have to go to the priest or elder to check our stats or upgrade skills.”

“That makes sense. Thanks,” Jim replied and kissed her forehead.

“You’re welcome. Let’s get some sleep before I try to stand up and step on you.”

“Step on? You’ve just given me an idea!”

“What?” Ari asked opening her eyes.

“Go to sleep love. I think I know how I can stand out if I can remember part of an old sales pitch from earth.”

“Good. Think about it in the morning,” Ari replied turning over and putting her back into his chest. Jim took the hint and pulled Ariana close before closing his eyes.

*

“Good morning Jim and Ariana,” Blaire greeted the two. Kyra nodded in greeting. “Where are your guards?”

“Good morning. Kayja, Dusk, May, and Rex are right here,” Ariana returned the greeting gesturing to the wolves eating beside the table.

“Morning,” Jim replied after sipping his coffee. “Eloise and the others are helping Abel this morning. Kyra perked up at that and Jim noticed. “Interested in smithing?”

“Yes,” Kyra answered. “I would like to apprentice to a smith after I finish my apprenticeship with Mrs. Blaire.”

Blaire smiled fondly at her apprentice. “You’re almost finished. In fact, all you really need to do is produce an enchanted item that is at least journeyman level.”

“What kind of item would that be?” Ari asked.

“Normally armor or a weapon with two enchantments,” Kyra answered.

“Jim, would it be acceptable for Kyra to try with one of the swords you wanted enchanted? I will buy the sword if she fails.”

“Sure. That is fine with me.”

“Are you sure I’m ready?” Kyra asked Blaire.

“Yes. I’m sure. Run to the back lot and get Eloise or one of the others to let us into their wagon. We may just finish today,” Blaire instructed. Kyra ran off to do as instructed with a huge smile on her face.

“Would you like some coffee?” Ari asked.

“No thank you. I prefer tea.”

“I have a chamomile tea I’ve been working on,” Ari offered.

“Thank you. That sounds lovely,” she replied. She sat in an offered chair and looked at what Jim’s notebook. “What are you working on?”

“A new sales pitch of sorts.”

“Oh?”

“I need to stand out, so I thought I would try something different.”

“Interesting. Jim, Kyra really likes your guards and elder Abel. I think she wants to apprentice to Abel if he’ll take her on. Would that be an issue for you?”

“No,” Jim answered after thinking it over. If she would be willing to enchant while on the road with us, it would work out very well for me.”

“Thank you. I’ll let her know,” Blaire replied. Ari handed her a cup of tea. “Thank you dear. This smells great.” She took a sip. “Tastes good too.”

Chapter 74

“Are you sure I can’t talk you, Eloise, and Remi into wearing short skirts that show off your legs or cut the legs out of pants to do the same?” Jim asked Ariana with a grin. The women exchanged a look, turned to Jim, and frowned.

“No!” they exclaimed together.

“It’ll work better than my shouting will.”

“Jim…”

“I’m joking. I promise!” Jim told Ari. He pulled her close and kissed her. “Will you consider working up front behind my table so people can see how an alchemist works?”

“Hmmm. That I will do,” Ariana agreed as she leaned into him.

“What are you two talking about?” Abel asked as the dwarves joined them.

“Breakfast I hope,” Leo said.

Ariana pulled away. “Jim asked if I would work so people can watch.”

“That’s an interesting idea. Most people have no idea how an alchemist does what they do,” Remi said. “Too bad dad can’t work out front too.”

“City ordinances prohibit blacksmiths from working in crowded spaces,” Abel answered Jim’s unasked question when he caught the look on his employer’s face.

“That makes sense. Especially with the hot metal, sparks, fire, and noise,” Jim replied.

“Indeed.”

“I have a stove ready for Blaire and Kyra to enchant. They are a little more methodical and therefore slower than Enoch and Julia were. They should finish the wagon sometime this morning,” Abel advised Jim.

“Did they talk to you about Kyra?”

“They did. I’ll take the lass on when she passes her test.”

“You seem sure she will pass it dad,” Eloise said.

“Aye. The girl has talent and drive. She just needs experience,” Abel replied. “It’ll be interesting to see if she can pull off dual professions. I couldn’t, hence why I gave up guard work to start smithing.”

“Me either,” Ari added. “Though, I didn’t want to keep being a thief.”

“Aye. It’s only the most driven that can pull off two professions,” Rhett agreed.

“If Kyra is going to be your apprentice elder, does that mean she will be traveling with us?” Leo asked.

“Aye. I’ll craft a foldout frame that we will attach to the wagon above my foldout bed. She’ll sleep there.”

“Seems you’ve thought this through,” Jim observed.

“Aye. I have lad. I figure you can pay her to enchant some things to pay for her passage and food.”

“That will work,” Jim agreed. “Did you start the armor you wanted to make?”

“I have. I’m using one of the bear pelts for the leather, which is most of the armor. I’m adding a titanium and mithril alloy for pauldrons, bracers, and a chest piece to it. The tassets and greaves will be made the same. I’ll do the engraving work this morning. Then it just needs enchanting if you really want it to be special.”

“Dad has really outdone himself with this armor even if it is human or elf sized,” Eloise praised her father.

“Is this armor something you guys would wear?”

“Aye,” Rhett agreed as the others nodded yes.”

“Armor like it would be a huge upgrade over what we use,” Remi added.

“Is there enough titanium and mithril to do more?” Jim asked as a plan formed in his mind.

“Aye. There is enough to make four dwarf sized sets with the bear hides you have left. Using other sources of leather, there is enough metal for at least 4 more set of human size armor. Why?”

“Make some armor for your kin with it.”

“We appreciate the thought Jim,” Remi said after the foursome exchanged looks. “But we can’t pay for what this armor will be worth.”

“I’ll take a look at it once Abel is done with his engraving work. Appraise will let me know what it’s worth and it’s true value,” Jim replied. “Either way, I consider this an investment. The more protected you guys are, the more protected Ari and I are.”

“That’s true.”

“Besides, we can also use the armor as part of your payment,” Jim grinned.

“There is the smart and greedy side of the merchant,” Ari laughed. Jim and the others chuckled.

“Aye. It makes sense and would keep us from having to buy armor with the coin he would pay us anyway,” Leo said. Eloise and Remi exchanged another look and shrugged.

“We’ll accept that offer and consider the armor as part of our payment depending on what it is worth,” Eloise told Jim.

“If the armor’s true value exceeds our yearly pay, we will give up half of our pay and consider the rest an investment on your part,” Remi said.

“If we part company, we have the option of paying the rest of the armor’s value to you for it,” Rhett added which caused Remi to smile at her husband. Leo and he usually left the business dealings up to their wives.

“That’s agreeable,” Jim replied.

“Good. What’s for breakfast?” Leo asked. “I would love some pancakes.”

“Me too,” Ari agreed to nods from Abel, Eloise, and Remi.

“Pancakes it is then,” Jim replied at seeing most of the group wanted them.

*

“We are done with the wagon,” Blaire announced at noon. “Jim, we are going to go get lunch and then we’ll come back to start on your stuff.”

“Alright.”

“What do you want us to start with?”

“Let’s start with the grills. They will probably take the longest.”

“Alright.”

“Jim don’t forget the other thought you had,” Ari reminded him as she started working another batch of soap. She was working behind the wagon and would start working in front of it with Jim the next day.

“Thanks.”

“What thought,” Kyra asked.

“Do you recall that charcoal flavor the food had when I grilled the other day?”

“Yes.”

“Of course. It added to the bison meat a lot,” Blaire replied.

“Could you add that charcoal smoke smell as an enchantment?”

“Yes. We do enchantments to improve smells to outhouses and baths, so that shouldn’t be a problem.”

“You’ll have to burn some charcoal for us to capture the smell though,” Kyra warned.

“Why not join us for lunch then?” Ari asked. “Jim can grill some more burgers or chicken for lunch.”

*

“Here is the armor lad,” Abel announced as he joined the group for lunch.

“That is a work of art,” Blaire said. The leather was dark brown. The titanium alloy was dark gray, almost black. The leaf pattern etchings in the metal had a blue tint from the mithril in the alloy. The others all agreed.

“Why did you do leaf patterns elder Abel?” Kyra asked.

“It felt right. The leather came from a Kodiak cave bear, which is a creature of the forest,” Abel shrugged. He looked at her and Blaire. “What enchantments would you give this armor?”

“An enchantment to fit any wearer to start,” Kyra answered. “Is that blue mithril?”

“The metal is a titanium and mithril alloy. The colors come from both base metals.”

“Hmmm. I would add enchantments to protect against magic and fire. I would also add an enchantment to keep the wearer comfortable,” Blaire answered Abel’s earlier question.

“How much would you charge?” Jim asked as he used Appraise on the armor.

{Kodiak Titanium Armor Level 10 Value 40 Gold True Worth 20 Gold}

“With the resize enchantment?” Blaire asked. Jim nodded. “For you, five gold since you have given me much business.”

“Could you do it this afternoon?”

“Yes,” Blair answered. Kyra was practically bouncing up and down in excitement. “But I thought you wanted the grills started on.”

“Change of plans and here is your gold,” Jim replied sliding the money across the table. Blaire agreed and pocketed the coin after saying they would still capture the charcoal smoke smell when Jim started fixing lunch. He turned to look at Ari and the guards. “Have any of you seen any urchins or criers around?”

“Of course,” Ari replied.

“Lots of urchins running through the crowd,” Eloise said.

“There are criers at each entrance to the market,” Leo added.

“Is it possible to get the criers and urchins to spread word into the right sort of ears about the armor?” Jim asked.

“Aye. It’ll cost you though,” Rhett answered. “Maybe 50 coppers.”

“Would you mind seeing to that while I start lunch?” Jim asked sliding the coin across the table to Rhett.

“Aye,” He agreed with a smile while making the coin disappear. “Come on Leo, let’s spread the word and see what happens.”

Chapter 75

“Jim, we have finished enchanting the armor,” Blaire informed him before sunset. “We’ll be back in the morning to start on the grills.”

“Thanks Blaire.”

“Jim, might I have one of the swords so I can start working on it?” Kyra asked.

“Do you have enchantments in mind for it?” Ariana asked.

“Yes. One is to keep an edge. The other, I want to keep to myself for now.”

“Alright. Here you go,” Jim replied handing over one of the steel swords.

“Don’t stay up all night working on it,” Abel warned as he rejoined the group and Kyra took the sword from Jim.

“Thank you, Jim. I won’t elder Abel.”

“We’ll see you guys in the morning,” Blaire said as the two enchanters headed home.

“The Mermaid Tavern is offering grouper fillets and fish stew tonight,” Leo told Ariana and Jim. “The townspeople say it is very good and we’re going to try it. Do you want to come?”

“I don’t like fish that much,” Ariana replied. “I’ll pass.”

“I’ll stay here and keep Ariana company,” Jim said. “I’ll check on the ponies and mules after feeding the pups.”

“Do you want us to bring you back some?” Rhett asked.

“No. We’ll fix something.”

“Alright. We’ll see you later,” Eloise replied and led her kin away.

“Do you have an idea of what you want tonight?” Jim asked Ariana.

“A salad.”

“Sounds good.”

“Go check on the ponies and mules. I’ll mix a simple vinegar and basil dressing. You can feed the wolves when you get back. I’ll keep Rex and May here. Take Dusk and Kayja with you.”

“Alright. Come on you two,” Jim said as he started to the stable. The two wolves followed while the dwarves’ wolves sat in front of his wagon after Ariana entered.

*

“Morning you two,” Jim greeted the enchanters when they arrived. Kyra yawned and then blushed.

“Sorry. I stayed up longer than I should have working on the sword.”

“And that despite Abel and myself telling her not to,” Blaire said with a frown.

“Did you finish the sword?” Ari asked.

“No. I’m having to research the second enchantment I want to add. Hopefully, I’ll finish it tonight or tomorrow,” Kyra answered around another yawn.

“Coffee?” Jim asked holding out two cups. Blaire and Kyra accepted the coffee with smiles. “Milk or sugar?”

“Both!” Kyra replied.

“Milk for me,” Blaire added. She pointed at Jim’s coffee pot. “I should enchant that to keep the coffee warm.”

“Could you enchant one to heat water to make coffee?”

“I could, but how would you get the grounds out?”

“Use a thin cloth or stronger parchment to hold them while the water heats,” Ari answered. “Take that out when done. I have to do that with some of the potions.”

“How much would you charge to enchant the pot and add a blood bond enchantment to the armor?”

“Five pounds of coffee and 20 silvers.”

“Ah! Not my precious!”

“Jim, you have 75 pounds of coffee,” Eloise said before Ari could. “We can’t drink it all.”

“Fine,” Jim replied with a grin. “We have a deal.”

“Give me the coffee and I’ll go ahead and do the enchantment.”

“Ok,” Jim answered giving the enchanter five pounds of coffee.

*

“I suppose you will want dad and Kyra to make and enchant more of those urns,” Remi said after the enchanters started working on the grills.

The enchanted coffee pot only took five minutes to make coffee. Kyra had pointed out that adding a warming rune in addition to the hot and off runes would make the pot more useful. Blaire had agreed and didn’t charge extra. She had praised her apprentice and said they would be adding the runes to their coffee pot when they returned home.

“Am I that transparent?”

“You’re a merchant. Of course, you are.”

“When Kyra does pass her test and if she accepts the apprenticeship under Abel, yeah, I intend to have them make enchanted coffee pots. They should sell well since they can be used for tea too, especially if I can price them sort of cheaply.”

“Are you going to have the armor dad is making for us enchanted too?” Eloise asked.

“That’s the idea. I want it enchanted to help keep you healthy if possible.”

“Like a healing enchantment?”

“Yes.”

“Good idea,” Rhett said.

“Speaking of armor, some adventurers are watching us. They are wondering if this is the wagon the criers were advertising yesterday,” Jim told the others.

“How do you know?” Leo asked.

“His enhanced hearing,” Ari answered. “Jim’s is on par with my own.”

“Figures. No wonder he seems to always know what we’re talking about,” Leo replied. “How are you going to let people know about the armor?”

“I have a plan,” Jim replied as he stood from his chair. He climbed up onto the wagon’s porch and faced the adventurers.

“What are you doing?” Ari asked him. She had set up the larger table and equipment beside the smaller one.

“You’ll see,” Jim answered as he Appraised the armor as he gave it to Rhett and Leo. “Guys hold the armor up.”

{Enchanted Kodiak Titanium Armor Level 10 Value 50 Gold True Worth 25 Gold}

“See what?” Remi asked as Rhett and Leo held up the armor.

“Hurry! Hurry! Hurry!” Jim shouted. “Don’t be shy. Step right up.” He pointed to the adventurers. “Are you looking for potions? Weapons? Storage rings? A one of the kind enchanted armor?”

The adventurers perked up as people stopped and listened to the merchant. Jim noticed he had other nearby traders’ attention too. Even the urchins were watching Jim instead of picking pockets.

“Trader Jim’s has potions, produce, grills to cook food on, and more. As you see we have an alchemist that makes original potions, salves, and more. The line forms to the left,” Jim continued and pointed to the left of his wagon after signaling out Ariana. He hopped down as the adventurers moved forward.

“What was that?” Rhett asked as he set the armor pieces he held down. Jim put them and what Leo was holding into his inventory.

“That my friend, is how it used to be done where I’m from,” Jim answered as he took position behind his table.

*

“You want 75 gold for the armor?” Selah asked. She was a level 10 elven warrior and the highest ranked of this group of adventurers. As the day had passed, two dozen or more people had inquired about the armor and balked at the price. Ariana’s salves, soaps, and potions had proven popular though, especially with her brewing them right out in the open so people could watch.

“I do. You’ve seen and touched the armor. It’s quality armor that should last you a long while,” Jim answered. “The armor has enchantments for fire resistance, magic resistance, resizing to the wearer, comfort, and to blood bond with its wearer.”

“What do you mean comfort?” Kason asked. He was a level 8 rogue.

“The enchantment keeps the armor at a comfortable temperature and keeps it from chaffing or pinching.”

“That is handy,” the rogue replied.

“It is,” Selah agreed. “I do like the leaf pattern as well.”

“Come on Selah, the market is closing,” Malik urged as the other merchants begun to pack things away for the day. He was her party’s mage and had purchased 20 mana potions. “Let’s go get something to eat.”

“I won’t discount the price, but I will throw in a non-enchanted square grill and two major health potions if you buy the armor,” Jim told the warrior.

“A grill is one of those things you cooked on earlier today?” Kason asked.

“That is correct,” Ari answered for Jim. “You use charcoal or wood to cook on.”

“You had said non-enchanted grill,” Malik replied.

“Yeah. I’m having an enchanter enchant some of my grills, so they don’t need wood or charcoal to cook,” Jim answered.

“I’ll take that deal,” Selah finally replied and started to pull out her money. A few minutes later, Jim was 75 gold richer, and the warrior had bonded the armor and put it on. “Whoever the smith and enchanter were that made this knows their craft. It is outstanding!”

“Thank you, lass,” Abel said as he joined the group. “I love seeing my work appreciated.”

“You’re the smith?”

“Aye.”

“Are you planning on making more like it?” Kason asked.

“If I ever get the materials again. We are a traveling group, so we should get more of the materials in time.”

“You should have your own smithy here or in another major city,” Malik said.

“Nay lad. My kin and I are quite happy working with Jim currently. Mayhap we’ll settle one day,” Abel replied. The others nodded in agreement.

“Well, thank you again,” Selah said. “Let’s go guys.”

“How much did you get for it, Jim?”

“75 gold for the armor, two major health potions, and a square grill.”

“It wasn’t worth that much.”

“Not true. It’s worth whatever someone is willing to pay.”

“Good point,” Remi replied. “Can we get paid?”

“Sure,” Jim agreed. He handed over 1 gold and 20 silvers to the group. “Elder Abel gets 40 silvers and 20 each for the rest of you as we agreed.”

“Thanks lad,” Abel replied for himself and his kin as they pocketed their coin.

“Abel, we may have to change our deal if you keep putting out work like the armor. I don’t feel right making that much and you getting 40 silvers for all of the work you’ve done for me so far.”

“That is the way of the world.”

“Maybe. But skilled craftsmen like you and Ari should make more.”

“That be true too,” Abel agreed. “We’re off to eat and have a pint or two. Do you two want to join us?”

“I don’t,” Jim answered. “I’m going to check the mules and ponies, feed the pups, and decide what to charge for the enchanted stove and grills.”

“I’ll stay with Jim,” Ari replied.

“Will you feed our wolves too?” Eloise asked.

“Of course.”

“Thank you.”

“We’ll see you when we get back,” Remi said as the dwarves started walking away.

“How much did you make today?” Ari asked.

“We made 85 gold and 55 silvers after paying the Abel and his kin.”

“We?”

“I did say you were my partner,” Jim answered as he stood up and put his merchandise in his inventory. Ariana had already put away her gear and the larger table. “And I intend to keep you around for the rest of our lives.”

“Thank you,” Ariana replied and kissed him on the cheek. “What do you want for dinner? I’ll cook.”

“I thought we would try something from where I’m from.”

“You didn’t say home this time.”

“I know. Earth is starting to no longer feel like home.”

“Your world was named after dirt?” Ari asked with a grin.

“Yeah. You could say that.”

“Your people must not have been that bright,” Ari laughed.

“That is true of some people everywhere.”

“True. What did you want to try tonight?”

“It’s called lasagna and is sort of like the pasta we had before. I’m not sure how it’ll taste with the cheese we have and bison meat though.”

“That was good, so hopefully this will be too.”

“Let’s get started making the noodles and I’ll check on Al, Peggy, and the ponies after the lasagna starts cooking.”

Chapter 76

Jim checked his notifications from the last few days while he took care of his morning ablutions. He was getting slack or perhaps quite good at ignoring them, depending on one’s point of view. He checked his character sheet as well. Bartering had leveled once more. Seeing that he had over 99 gold put a smile on Jim’s face.

{

Jim Merchant

Level: 6

Class: Merchant

Health: 160

Stamina: 160

Strength(6)

Endurance(6)

Dexterity(7)

Charisma(15)

Intelligence(12)

Wisdom(10)

Luck(12)

Skills: Appraise(1)

Bartering(5)

Harvesting(2)

Invention(4)

Strategy(1)

Tactics(1)

Gold:99

Silver:86

Copper:32

}

Jim had put off pricing the enchanted grills the night before and sat to do so before starting his day. He sat on the left side seat and pulled out his notebook and pen. Jim looked to his bed and saw the two aki wolves now laying on either side of Ariana. “Who said you two could join Ari in bed?”

Neither Kayja or Dusk answered beyond a lifting their heads and looking at him. “I’ll let you out in a few minutes.” Jim turned to his pricing as the wolves laid their heads back down. Blaire had charged him ten gold to enchant the stove and grills. Jim decided to split the cost evenly between the 16 items, which meant it cost 63 silvers to enchant each one if he rounded up. The grills had cost 20 and 30 silvers to build depending on the smith and size of grill. Jim rubbed his chin in thought. He didn’t have a price for the stove since Abel never gave him one nor had he asked for one.

“I can charge a gold and a half for the smaller grills and two gold for the large one. Might as well go big for the stove. Let’s say five gold,” Jim told himself as he added the prices to his inventory.

“Talking to yourself?” Ari asked.

“Just a little.”

“Should I start worrying?” Ari asked as she slid out of bed. “Are you sure the grills and stove will sell at that price?”

“No, but I’m going to give it a go anyway,” Jim answered as he put away the pen and notebook. He stood and pulled Ari into a hug. She stepped back after a kiss.

“I want to buy some more flasks and tins. I’ve used a lot of what we got the other day.”

“Alright. Want me to go with you?”

“No. I know I’ll pay more without you, but I figure I need the experience too.”

“That’s true. I’m going to let the wolves out and check on Peggy and Al. That will give you a few minutes to use the bathroom in peace.”

“Thank you for that.”

“And here is 10 gold. That should hopefully cover anything you need or want.”

“Are you sure? Five gold should be more than enough.”

“I’m sure.”

“Ok. Thanks,” Ari replied with a smile. “I’m going to try to make pancakes this morning. Does that sound good to you?”

“Yeah. I’ll be back in a bit,” Jim answered as he went to the door and opened it. Kayja and Dusk bolted out of the wagon before anything needed to be said to the wolves. “Guess they had to go.”

*

Jim’s morning was going slowly. He hadn’t made a single sale but had several more people inquire about the Kodiak armor. Jim had sent them away disappointed. He Appraised his sylvan storage ring.

{Cedar Wood Storage Ring Value 50 Gold True Worth 10 Gold}

“And I thought I priced my wares too highly,” Jim laughed. He then Appraised the gaudy storage ring. It was the same.

{Jeweled Large Storage Ring Value 50 Gold True Worth 10 Gold}

“What’s that Jim?” Rhett asked.

“My ring is valued at 50 gold, but is actually only worth 10,” Jim whispered to his guards. “The large storage ring we picked up at the bandits’ camp is the same.”

“I’m not sure how a wood ring and a gold ring are worth the same amount,” Leo said.

“Maybe it’s the enchantment that determines the value,” Rhett shrugged. “We could ask Kyra or Blaire.”

“Nah. Where are they by the way?” Jim asked.

“Using our wagon to work on your swords, and war hammers,” Leo answered.

“Speaking of those, I need to come up with a price for the enchanted versions.”

“Did Blaire tell you what enchantments they were doing?” Rhett asked.

“Yeah, we had discussed it.”

“Makes sense then,” Rhett replied. Jim figured it cost 1 gold and 43 silvers to enchant each weapon. He decided to charge 3 gold per weapon. Jim checked the two smaller storage rings and one of the traveler’s packs.

{Small Gold Storage Ring Value 6 Gold True Worth 2 Gold}

{Silver Storage Ring Value 6 Gold True Worth 2 Gold}

{Traveler’s Pack Value 2 Gold True Worth 1 Gold}

“Well, that answers that question.”

“What question?” Leo asked.

“If the enchantment was the value or not. The two small storage rings are worth the same.”

“Ah,” Leo replied. Jim nodded to himself in satisfaction and then pulled out his notebook, pen, and atlas. “What are you doing?”

“Updating my inventory and then planning on where to go to next,” Jim replied and scanned the map of the area. There were two villages along the coast leading toward the eastern forests. “How many more months until winter?”

“Five,” Rhett answered. “Are you planning on being on the road then?”

“Not if I can help it. I’d rather winter somewhere fairly nice and secure so Abel can have time to make a lot of stuff.”

“The northern mountains would be good, but you’ll probably need more guards than just us to make that trek,” Leo said. “The eastern forests would be nice too.”

“If the elves will let us in,” Rhett added.

“What do you mean?” Jim asked looking up from his map. He then looked back down at it. “I thought the forests were part of Praha.”

The eastern elven band can be a bit…picky about who they let into the eastern forests,” Leo answered.

“The royal family has always left them alone in their ancestral forests as long as they pay their taxes and answer his summons when Praha is at war,” Rhett added. “Which, they always do.”

“I hope they’ll let us stay and trade.”

“And if they don’t?”

“We head north to the northern mountains or back west and south to one of these villages,” Jim answered gesturing to the map.

“Why not head back through Raven’s Rest and onto the central heartlands and the capital, Praha City?” Leo asked.

“There are a lot more towns and villages there,” Rhett added.

“No. I’d rather stick to the outskirts of the kingdom for now.”

“What happened in Raven’s Rest really soured you huh?” Rhett asked.

“Yeah, it did,” Jim answered. He studied the map a bit more. There were no villages or towns between the eastern forests and northern mountains on the map. “Why aren’t there any villages in this area?”

“An elder dragon claims that as its territory,” Leo answered. “Abel explained to us once that is why the eastern elven band and the northern mountain dwarves haven’t done direct trade in over 200 years.”

“Praha collectively decided it was tired of sending its children to die by dragon and have left it alone 150 years ago. The dragon had raided the few villages in the area for bison, oxen, horses, or whatever every few years until people all abandoned the area,” Rhett said after noticing Jim’s expression.

“How did you know I was going to ask about that?”

“Saw the look on your face.”

“Oh. Makes sense.”

“What makes sense?” Remi asked as her, Eloise, and Ariana rejoined the men.

“We were explaining to Jim why there were no longer any villages in the northern eastern forests or in the southern part of the northern mountains,” Rhett answered his wife. She nodded in understanding and then explained to Ari about the dragon just in case the alchemist had never heard the tales before.

“Have fun shopping? Jim asked Ari.

“I did. I spent all 10 gold too,” she answered. “I used it all on alchemical ingredients in addition to the flasks, tins, and such.”

“That’s fine,” Jim shrugged.

“Really?”

“Yeah. Did you get good stuff?”

“Some saffron, fenugreek, cardamom, cassia bark, stoneseed root, thistles, lengkuas, ginger, and mengkudu masak.”

“Those first three are spices,” Jim replied taking Ariana’s hand. “I’ve never heard of the others.”

“The other herbs and plants are used to make Maiden’s Milk and Stallion’s Blood,” Ari answered shyly. “I remembered you had said you were advised to find an alchemist to make them for you.”

“Oh. Thank you.”

“I also bought 10 loaves of bread from a bakery we found.”

“Don’t forget the custard, two dozen doughnuts, tarts, puddings, and cookies,” Eloise chimed in.

“You got sweets?” Leo asked.

“Aye. We did,” Remi answered. “We thought it would make a nice change of pace and dessert for tonight.”

“Oh?” Rhett asked.

“Yes. We are cooking a soup,” Eloise answered. “We spent some of our funds on stocking up on food. So, don’t cook Jim!”

“I won’t,” he laughed and then stood, letting go of Ari’s hand. “I do have a good idea for lunch though. We have cheese and now bread. Let’s have grilled cheese sandwiches.”

“Use the new cheese we got,” Remi told Jim. “It smelled really good and the sample we got to try tasted good.”

“New cheese?”

“This,” Ari answered and held out the cheese for Jim to smell. “The shopkeeper called it mozzarella.”

“Oh, my goodness! That is mozzarella,” Jim said happily. “How much of this did you get?”

“One pound. None of us had tried it before,” Ari answered.

“We’re going to need a lot more of this,” Jim replied.

“Why?”

“Because we can now make pizza!”

“What is pizza?” Rhett asked.

“You’ll find out tomorrow night since the ladies want to make soup tonight. Did they have any other cheeses?”

“The cheddar you already have, and something called provolone,” Eloise answered.

“I want it too,” Jim said. “As much as we can get of both.”

“We’ll go back in the morning then,” Ariana replied.

“Now, let me show you guys a grilled cheese.”

Chapter 77

“Jim, we are done with the weapons,” Belaire announced while he and Ariana cooked grill cheeses. “That smells good. What is it?”

“Grilled cheese sandwiches,” Ariana answered. “Would you like one?”

“They are good,” Leo said around a mouthful of gooey goodness. Eloise shook her head. He finished swallowing. “Sorry baby.”

“Thank you,” Kyra said as she handed Jim the weapons. He put them into his inventory. Ariana gave the two enchanters a grilled cheese on a plate. Jim and Ari made themselves a couple after making sure nobody else wanted any. They did their best to ignore the crowd that was gathered and looking on with interest.

“Maybe I should have opened a tavern or restaurant,” Jim muttered.

“I thought you didn’t want to cook for a living,” Ari replied.

“I don’t. But with how crowds always form when we cook or grill,” Jim shrugged.

“Would you be happy doing that for a living?” Blaire asked.

“No. I don’t think so.”

“That’s good. If you had done that, none of us might have met,” Abel added.

“That makes me doubly glad I didn’t go that route then,” Jim replied while smiling at Ari. She smiled back.

“Is there anything else you need enchanted Jim?” Blaire asked.

“The sword Kyra is working on.”

“I should have it done by this evening or maybe noon tomorrow,” Kyra said.

“Alright,” Jim replied. He thought things over for a moment and snapped his fingers when he thought of something. “I want something to amplify my voice to make it easier to address the shoppers.”

“That’s easy enough to do. How loud do you want your voice to be?”

“Loud enough to be heard over the neighboring stalls and wagons, but not beyond that.”

“Do have an item you want to use?”

“Maybe a copper coin?”

“Nay lad. Use this,” Abel said as he tossed an iron disc about the size of a silver dollar, which was twice the size of Stormgion’s coins.

“Dad, what did you make that for?” Eloise asked the smith.

“It’s a piece of scrap steel that I flattened and smoothed the edges. I was considering sharpening it and seeing if it could be used as a throwing weapon,” Abel shrugged. Blaire looked thoughtful.

“That is the perfect size to be engraved with a rune,” the enchanter told them. “Trade me 200 of those with a hole on one end and I will do the enchantment for you.”

“What do you have in mind for the discs?” Kyra asked.

“Similar to what Jim wants, but it will make a loud noise instead of amplifying a voice. Perhaps a whistling sound. I think women and some noble men would buy something that would alert others louder than they can shout.”

“Lass, you may want to use more expensive metals if you’re aiming to sell to nobles and other wealthy sorts,” Abel said.

“Good point. But I want to see if I’m correct about there being a market for such a thing before investing in more expensive metals.”

“That’s smart,” Jim agreed while Blaire drew a rune on the disc. “I think you have a great idea too.”

“Hold the disc near your head and keep the rune pressed to activate the enchantment,” Blaire instructed after she finished the enchantment. She tossed the disc to Jim. “Give it a go.”

Jim pressed the rune as he held the disc to his mouth. “Testing!” Jim’s voice boomed over the surrounding stands and wagons. People jerked and looked around as Jim dropped the disc as the others laughed.

“That works a little too well,” Rhett observed.

“Try holding it further down,” Blaire said with a grin. Jim did so.

“Sorry folks. I am not selling food that I cook,” Jim said. His voice was loud and attracted people’s attention. This time it was more in line with what Jim wanted. A few people that had been watching them walked away. Jim nodded in satisfaction. “Abel, will you make Blaire 200 of these?”

“Aye. I’ll do so in the morning. I’ll be done with the kids’ upgrades this afternoon.”

“I’ll send Kyra with her sword once she is finished or money to pay for it around noon after she finishes. She can pick up the discs then,” Blaire said. Abel and Jim nodded in agreement. “Come Kyra, let’s return to the shop.”

“Alright,” Kyra agreed as the enchanters stood. She looked at the others. “Wish me luck.”

*

“Jim, are you sure you don’t want to sell merchandise this afternoon?” Rhett asked.

“I’m sure. I’d rather check the docks out and see if we can find a lot of those spices and herbs Ariana and your wives found.”

“That stuff probably won’t sell here.”

“I know. It’s not about selling here so much as having something to sell elsewhere.”

“Makes sense,” Leo said.

“Aye,” Rhett agreed. “Couldn’t we have just went to the different wholesalers? The docks smell really badly.”

“I agree. We could have skipped this part Jim,” Leo replied.

“It’s not that bad,” Jim said while trying to hold his breath.

“Jim, you’re holding your breath.”

“I’m trying,” Jim replied. “It’s not working too good though. I’m just glad we left Kayja and the other wolves behind.”

“Not with your women today, Mr Merchant?” a female voice called out. The trio turned and found an older woman observing them from a pier where a ship was being unloaded.

“Mrs. Williamson, it’s good to see you again. Our ladies are watching the wagons and preparing a soup they wanted for supper.” Jim replied as he spotted the wholesaler. He led the way to her. “What are you doing here?”

“Good for them. I’m ensuring my new merchandise is in good order before accepting it,” Wilma answered. “What are you doing down here?”

“I wanted to see the docks.”

“And see if you could buy merchandise right off a ship?” Wilma asked with a grin.

“Perhaps.”

“You need a wholesale license and contacts to be able to buy directly off ships.”

“That or own the ships,” Leo added.

“Correct,” Wilma agreed with a smile. She gestured to the ship that was being unloaded. “This is the Lady Luck. She is mine and fresh in from the Beniel Isles and Aquagard at the eastern coast of the eastern forests.”

“What is she carrying?” Rhett asked.

“Spices.”

“That’s just the thing I’m looking for,” Jim said.

“Oh?”

“Ariana told me she had bought some Cardamom, saffron, fenugreek, cassia bark, stoneseed root, thistles, lengkuas, ginger, and mengkudu masak yesterday. I’m looking for more of those.”

“I have those as well as,” Wilma paused to check her list, “clove, cumin, nutmeg, cinnamon, red pepper, black pepper, paprika, garlic, mustard seeds, and curry powder.”

“How much do you have and how much are you willing to sell to me?” Jim asked.

“I have a ton of each and usually sell them for 10 coppers a pound.”

“I’ll take 100 pounds of each,” Jim replied. He thought it over and did the math. “That should be 19 gold for all of them.”

“I also have some fruit.”

“What kind?”

“Lemons, citrons, oranges, strawberries, and grapes in one-ton allotments. They are 10 coppers a bushel.”

“I’ll take 100 bushels of each of them as well.”

“The grapes are red and white.”

“100 of bushels of each of them. That will be 6 more gold.”

“You don’t want to Barter or trade?”

“Not if you’ll let me have my pick, kick in a half bushel of each for our use, and supply bags that I can use for my customers. I also could use a recommendation of where to buy fish cheaply.”

Wilma smiled. “That is Bartering, Jim.”

“Just a little,” Jim replied with a smile of his own.

“I’ll throw in 250 burlap bags and let you have your pick, as well as the half bushels if you’re quick.”

“I’ll be quick,” Jim promised.

Chapter 78

“A jeweler’s,” Jim remarked as they came upon the shop. “And he has a hunk of smoky quartz sitting in the window.”

“So?” Rhett asked. “It’s near worthless.”

“Maybe not. Let’s go inside. I have an idea,” Jim replied. Leo and Rhett exchanged glances. Seeing the rock made Jim remember reading that the Chinese had used smoky quartz to make primitive sunglasses hundreds of years ago. Who knew useless facts could end up useful? He could have Abel, or the jeweler do the same if the quartz could be cut thin enough and shaped. He led the way into the shop.

“Greetings. Welcome to Roberto’s Jewelry. I am Roberto’s wife, Selene. How can I assist you?” the dwarf behind the counter greeted the trio.

“Hello Selene. I noticed the smoky quartz you have in the window.”

“What about it?” Selene asked with hope in her voice. The few pieces her husband had made with it were sitting in the display two years after he had made them. Perhaps this man was foolish enough to buy them and the rest of the worthless rock.

“I was wondering if you or your husband could cut two dozen pieces off of it into circles about the size of a coin and maybe half as thick.”

“Why on Stormgion would you want to do that?”

“I want to use it to cover my eyes.”

“It won’t help your vision and you could go to a priest and have them correct your vision if you need to,” Selene replied exasperated with the human.

“My vision is fine. But I do have a use for the cut pieces.”

“We want nothing to do with thieves, especially stupid ones that think covering their eyes with smoky quartz is a good idea.”

“I promise you madam, I’m no thief,” Jim protested.

“Well, you are a merchant, and they are thieves of a sort,” Leo said. Rhett coughed to cover a laugh while Jim and Selene looked at the guard like he insulted their mothers. “What?”

“I assure you Selene, that our employer is an upstanding merchant,” Rhett interjected before Selene or Jim could reply to Leo. He pointed to the display with the quartz. “We also know the quartz is near worthless hence why you’ve had those pieces collecting a little dust there.”

“I knew I should have dusted that this morning,” Selene huffed. “We can cut it like you want. Do you want it smoothed as well?”

“I do.”

“Five silvers and it’ll take about an hour.”

“That is acceptable. Might we wait here?”

“You may,” Selene answered before removing the quartz from the display.

*

“Why didn’t you negotiate with the jeweler?” Leo asked as they exited the shop.

“Felt like being nice.”

“You need to watch that. It’ll get you into trouble,” Rhett replied.

“Maybe. It’s worked out well for me so far though.”

“Where to now? The wagons?”

“You mean the vardo?”

“What?”

“Vardo. That is the actual name of the wagons,” Jim explained. “And yes, let’s head back. I am anxious to see if Abel can make the frame I want for these pieces of quartz.”

*

“The armor is done,” Abel said by way of greeting when Jim and his guards returned to their spot.

“That’s great. Even without enchantments, it’ll be an upgrade over what we have now,” Leo replied.

“Where are the ladies?” Rhett asked.

“Aye, the new armor is an upgrade. They are in Jim’s wagon cooking soup,” Abel replied.

“I’m glad you have finished the armor as well,” Jim said. “Abel, I have a new project I would like you to work on.”

“Do tell lad.”

“Let me show you while I explain,” Jim replied as he sat and pulled his notebook and pen out. He drew a rough sketch of sunglasses and then pulled the smoky quartz from his inventory. Unwrapping the pieces, he showed them to Abel and explained what he wanted.

“Aye. I can do that. Do you mind if one pair of these quartz pieces are used in a prototype made of iron or bronze?” Abel asked as he fingered one of the pieces.

“No, I don’t mind at all. That is one reason I bought two dozen of them.”

“I don’t know why Jim wants them for. He said his vision is fine,” Rhett said.

“Look through two of them. Hold one in front of each of your eyes,” Jim replied. The three dwarves did so.

“It makes things a little darker,” Leo observed.

“Aye. It blocks out part of the harsh sunlight,” Rhett replied.

“I think I see why you want this project done. This would be right handy in the morning or when you’re facing the sun all day,” Abel added.

“Yep,” Jim agreed.

“Is this another invention from your… homeland?”

“It is. They are called sunglasses,” Jim answered pointing at the sketch.

“That is a stupid name,” Leo said. “And doesn’t make sense.”

“Perhaps,” Jim shrugged. “Is there any of the titanium left?”

“A little,” Abel answered. “Do you want to use it for the frames?”

“I think so. Unless you have another idea for it?”

“I was thinking of making a war hammer head with it,” Abel admitted. Leo and Rhett perked up at that. “I don’t have enough left to make two.”

“Oh.”

“Drats.”

“Make the war hammer if you want. Steel will be fine for the frames.”

“I’ll start on this tomorrow after I finish Blaire’s discs.”

“Start on what?” Ari asked as she let the wolves out. Dusk, Rex, and May took off behind the livery. Kayja bumped Jim to get some attention before joining the other wolves.

“Jim’s new idea,” Leo answered.

“I’ll explain it as we eat supper,” Jim said.

“Ok. The soup will be ready in a half hour or so,” Ari replied. “Did you get the spices?”

“You could say that” Rhett answered with a grin while Leo laughed.

“Jim?”

“I got 19 herbs, spices, and fruit in 100 pound or 100-bushel allotments.”

“What kind of fruit?” Eloise asked as she hopped down from the wagon. Remi joined Ari on the porch.

“Lemons, citrons, oranges, white grapes, red grapes, and strawberries.”

“Jim, give me the strawberries,” Remi demanded. “They will go well with the custard we have.”

“I should have mentioned that Remi loves strawberries,” Rhett said.

“More like she is obsessed with them,” Abel laughed.

“Sorry. Those are staying in the traveler’s pack I put them in that is in my storage ring so I can sell them at other villages.”

“Jim don’t tease her,” Leo said.

“I would also be glad to pay her in strawberries instead of coin,” Jim teased.

“I want to do that, but I can’t,” Remi replied. “A woman can’t live off strawberries alone.”

“Here you go. Save some for us and you, Ari, and Eloise can have the rest,” Jim said giving the half bushel to Eloise. She handed the basket to her sister, who had the biggest smile on her face that Jim had seen yet.

*

“Are you going to get ready for bed?” Ari asked Jim later that night.

“In a little bit. I want to finish this sketch.”

“What is it?” Ariana asked putting away the book she had been reading and looking over.

“A rough blueprint,” Jim answered. Seeing her questioning look, he continued, “I have started to think I want to build a trading post somewhere. The area where the others said the dragon had claimed as its territory would be perfect.”

“Perfect other than the monsters, wild beasts, and dragon?” Ari asked with a grin.

“Well, yeah.”

“What made you want to build a trading post? The others that were in Praha have become villages and in some cases towns, such as Raven’s Rest.”

“Mostly when I saw the empty land that the dragon had claimed on the map. The idea hit me like a bolt of lightning,” Jim shrugged putting away the notebook and pen after finishing the part of the blueprint he had been working on.

“Do you want to settle and start a shop already?”

“Hmmm. No. I still want to travel and see everything I can of Praha and perhaps beyond. But it never hurts to plan for the future,” Jim said as he stood and pushed the table back into its cubby.

“You’re right. It’s smart to plan things, but you have to be flexible too,” Ari replied while stretching and stifling a yawn.

“Very true,” Jim agreed. Ari was wearing Jim’s enchanted blue elven shirt. “Am I ever going to get that shirt back?”

“No. It makes a good nightgown,” Ariana answered while grinning. “Besides, you love the way it looks on me.”

“That’s true too.”

Chapter 79

“Hurry! Hurry! Hurry!” Jim said using the amplifier disc the next morning. “Don’t be shy. Step right up.” The other nearby merchants glared at him. “Are you looking for lemongrass soap, potions, weapons, traveler’s packs, or storage rings? Trader Jim’s has sake, fabric, potions, produce, grills to cook food on, fountain pens to write with, and more. As you see we have an alchemist that makes original potions, salves, and more. The line forms to the left,” Jim continued and pointed to the left of his wagon after gesturing to Ariana.

“Do you think that will work?” Ari asked as Jim hopped off the wagon’s porch and took up position behind his table.

“Looks like it got some attention,” Eloise replied.

“Do you have any Stallion’s Blood?” an older woman asked which made the guards laugh as Ari blushed.

“I am just waiting for the batch to cool and then I’ll bottle it,” Ari answered. “It shouldn’t be more than 10 minutes or so.”

“I’ll return in a few minutes then,” the woman replied and walked off.

“I wonder if her husband is aware of his wife’s plans,” Remi said with a grin.

“Do you have anymore armor like Selah bought from you?” a female adventurer asked taking Jim’s attention away from the others.

“I’m afraid not. I do have four sets of elven armor as well as some chainmail though. The elven armor is 30 silvers while the chainmail is 10,” Jim answered. He studied the adventurer for a moment. “Are you a rogue or scout?”

“Yes. I’m a rogue. Why?”

“I have some steel daggers with an ice enchantment, yew bows, storage rings, traveler’s packs, and some steel traps too,” Jim replied. “I had some caltrops, but they are gone.”

“May I see the daggers?”

“Sure,” Jim answered as Rhett and Leo stepped closer to his table. Jim handed the adventurer one of the daggers and set the other in front of him on the table. The rogue tested both.

“You said 10 silvers?”

“Twenty for the pair.”

“I’ll take them. What’s the elven armor like?”

“It’s light,” Jim replied and showed the armor.

“It was 30 silvers for it?” the rogue asked. Jim nodded in agreement. “I’ll take that too.”

“I have 2-night vision potions for 10 silvers each as well.”

“What was the main ingredient?”

“Rock cat’s eyes,” Ariana answered for Jim, “as well as passionflower and billberry. Each potion should last for four hours or longer depending on how dark the area is.”

“You’re the alchemist?”

“I am.”

“You have the two potions?”

“Yes.”

“I’ll take them as well,” the adventurer replied while smiling at Ariana.

“Excellent! That’s 70 silvers total,” Jim replied.

“Here you go,” the rogue said as she handed Jim the coin. He handed her the items she had purchased. She walked off throwing a smile at Ari as she did so.

“Looks like she is interested in more than your potions,” Leo told Ari.

“She might be, but I’m not.”

“What about you Jim? Would you welcome another woman into bed with Ariana?”

“Nope. Ari is all I need and want.”

“Good answer,” Remi said while Eloise clapped. “Ari, you’ve trained him well.”

“I do what I can with what I have,” Ariana replied as she poured some Stallion’s Blood into a flask.

“Hey!” Jim said in mock outrage.

“Is that potion ready now?” the older woman from before asked with a frown.

“I apologize for our behavior,” Jim told her. He Appraised the flask.

{Stallion’s Blood Value 5 Silvers True Worth 1 Silver}

“It’s alright. Your guards are correct. She has trained you well,” the woman replied with a grin. The others laughed while Jim shook his head and grinned too.

“The potion is 5 silvers a flask.”

“That’s a fair price. I’ll take two,” she replied handing Jim the coin. He handed her the potions once Ariana bottled two.

“Have a nice day,” Jim told her. She nodded and left.

“Jim, I’ll have 10 more flasks in a few minutes,” Ari informed him while fighting to keep from smiling or laughing.

“Thanks. And I know, you have me wrapped around your little finger,” Jim replied as Ari started laughing along with the others.

“If it makes you feel better, I’m wrapped around yours too.”

“It does a little,” Jim replied to more laughter.

*

“Hi guys!” Kyra greeted them.

“Lass, judging by your smile, I take it ye passed to journeyman status,” Able said skipping the pleasantry.

“I did indeed,” Kya answered. The others congratulated her. “I am ready to apprentice myself to you elder Abel.”

“Wait! Before you get into that, let’s see what you did,” Rhett said.

“Oh! I forgot I had to give this to Jim,” Kyra replied and handed the sword to Jim. He used Appraise on it.

{Vampiric Steel Sword Worth 5 Gold True Value 2 Gold}

“Vampiric?”

“With every slice or stab, it will take health from the enemy and give it to the welder. It can be blood bound as well,” Kyra happily informed them.

“Did you say the sword will steal health and can be bound?” a female voice asked. They all turned to the voice to see Selah wearing the titanium armor with her party members.

“I did,” Kyra answered.

“Is it for sale? How much do you want for it, and may I see it?” the warrior asked.

“It’s Jim’s sword,” Kyra replied.

“Five gold,” Jim answered. He offered it to the warrior. “What do you think?”

Selah took a few swings with the sword. “Nice balance.”

“It’ll keep its edge too,” Kyra helpfully informed anyone listening.

“Do you have anymore health and mana potions?” Selah asked Jim.

“I do. I have major health potions in addition to normal and minor ones. I also have mana potions as well as healing and burning salves.”

“We’ll take ten of each salve, and ten of each potion except the major health. We’ll take all you have of them,” Malik, the mage, replied.

“That’s three gold for the mana potions, health potions, and healing salve. Another gold for the burning salve and minor health potions. And I’ll give you a discount on the major health potions. So, let’s say 50 silvers for them since I only have five.”

“I’ll take the sword too,” Selah told Jim. “So that’s nine gold and 50 silvers.”

“Jim has minor health and health poultices too,” Ari informed the adventurers.

“Give us 50 silver worth of those too,” Selah said. “Might as well make it an even 10 gold.”

“That will be 20 of the health poultices,” Jim replied. He handed over the potions and healing supplies after taking the coin from Selah.

“It’s been a pleasure doing business with you again.”

“Any chance of getting more of the armor made?” Kason asked.

“Eventually,” Jim replied. “As Abel told you before, we have to acquire the materials first.

“Fair enough. Have a good day,” Kason said as the adventurers left.

“We need to see about getting those materials lad.”

“I know. We also need to just stay in one spot and let you work for a while too.”

“Aye.”

“So, about my apprenticeship?” Kyra asked.

“Are you prepared to travel lass?”

“I am.”

“Work hard?”

“I am.”

“Do all sorts of grunt work under dad?” Eloise interjected to laughter.

“What?”

“She’s teasing you and our father,” Remi replied. “We joke a lot.”

“I see. I’ll do whatever it takes to learn.”

“Alright. We’ll start this afternoon by making the folding frame for your bed in the wagon. You’re free to stay in the wagon with us or where you are now as long as you are here a half hour after sunrise each morning,” Abel said. He handed her a bag filled with the discs he had made. “Don’t forget to take those to Blaire too.”

“Of course,” Kyra replied taking the discs and putting them into her inventory. “Does this mean you’ll take me on?”

“Aye lass.”

“Thank you!” Kyra gushed and hugged the older dwarf. “I’ll bring my stuff in the morning.”

“Jim, you’ll need to pay her for any enchanting she does.”

“I know. We’ll work that out later.”

“Are you going to sell more this afternoon?” Leo asked.

“No. I think we need to find more metals for Abel to work with instead.”

“Sounds good.”

Chapter 80

Jim, Ariana, Remi, and Rhett entered Quinn’s Metal Wholesale. To no one’s surprise Quinn turned out to be an old dwarf. “I’m Theo Quinn. Welcome to my shop. What can I do for you?”

“I’m Jim Merchant and I’m looking for mithril and titanium.”

“You’re not a smith with a name like Merchant. Are you looking to buy the metals to sell?”

“No. I’m looking to buy them for my smith,” Jim answered. He pulled a war hammer from his inventory. “This is an example of Abel’s work.”

“Let me see that,” Theo gestured to the hammer. Jim complied. “Decent work. Not made by a master though.”

Remi bristled. “Dad didn’t start smithing until after my sister and I were born and that is quality craftsmanship.”

“Easy Remi,” Rhett told his wife. Theo had not let the hammer go.

“Aye lass, it is quality work,” Theo replied. He turned to Jim. “How much metal do you need?”

“The hammer is enchanted as well.”

“Oh? What kind of enchantment?”

“Durability and to provide an extra force or impact.”

“Interesting. Would you be interested in trading them for some of the metal you want?”

“Perhaps. How much do you have?”

“Thousands of ingots of each kind of metal.”

“May I see an example of the titanium and mithril you have?”

“I suppose,” Theo agreed. He turned to an open doorway behind his counter. He yelled, “Thiago bring me a titanium and mithril ingot!”

“My lad will have them here in a moment. I charge 50 silvers per pound of mithril and 75 per pound of titanium. They come in one-pound ingots.”

“That’s high,” Jim observed as Thiago brought out two ingots. That was what he would have sold the ingots for! He Appraised both.

{Mithril Value 50 silvers True Worth 10 Silvers}

{Titanium Value 75 Silvers True Worth 10 Silvers}

“Aye. Metal is expensive.”

“Not that expensive when buying wholesale,” muttered Ariana.

“What’s that, lass?”

“Just agreeing that it is too expensive.”

“I’m willing to trade fer the hammer.”

“I have two enchanted hammers,” Jim said noticing Thiago eyeballing the war hammer too. He decided two could play the greed game. “They are 10 gold each.”

“That’s expensive considering the hammers are just steel.”

“Enchanted steel,” Jim said with a smile.

“Aye. You have a point there,” Theo agreed recognizing that his customer was giving to him what he was giving to his customer.

“I want 200 pounds of mithril and 100 pounds of titanium, and I’ll give you 20 silvers per ingot,” Jim told the metal merchant. “That’s 60 gold unless you want the hammers.”

“I’ll give you 10 gold for both hammers in return for accepting your price for the metal,” Theo replied.

“Make it 15 for the hammers,” Jim countered. “I’ll throw in a fountain pen and inkpot too.”

“What is a fountain pen,” Thiago asked. Jim showed them a pen and how it was used and refilled. “I like that pop. It would come in handy.”

“Aye lad. You have a deal Mr Merchant,” Theo said after another moment’s thought.

“Thank you Mr Quinn.”

“Can I take the pen and inkpot to the back and get the ingots?” Thiago asked.

“Aye lad,” Theo replied to his son. He took both hammers from Jim and the 25 gold he was handed. “Won’t be but a few minutes while he gets the metals.”

Jim checked his character sheet while waiting and smiled. Bartering had leveled.

{

Jim Merchant

Level: 6

Class: Merchant

Health: 160

Stamina: 160

Strength(6)

Endurance(6)

Dexterity(7)

Charisma(15)

Intelligence(12)

Wisdom(10)

Luck(12)

Skills: Appraise(1)

Bartering(6)

Harvesting(2)

Invention(4)

Strategy(1)

Tactics(1)

Gold:30

Silver:61

Copper:32

}

*

“Jim, did you take advantage of him?” Ariana asked.

“Maybe. I leaned on my Bartering skill,” Jim answered as they walked down the street.

“I wouldn’t consider it taking advantage of Theo,” Remi said. “He was trying to take advantage of anyone coming into his shop.”

“And I doubt we were the first,” Rhett added. “Ari, you said it yourself, dealing in wholesale shouldn’t have the same price as a normal shop.”

“For sale.”

“What’s for sale, Jim?” Remi asked.

“That shop,” Jim answered while pointing to a fenced in building with a for sale sign in front of it. “This isn’t a bad location. It’s fairly close to the crafters back the way we came from and close to the other market squares while being close to the waterfront too.”

“The building looks to be at least two stories too,” Ari said gazing up at the building. “I suppose there is living quarters on the top floor. Most shops are like that.”

“The paint is fading and cracking, but these posts look solid,” Rhett pointed out while tapping a porch post. The porch was small, and the roof was part of the second floor that extended out the front of the building. “The upstairs shutters look damaged too.”

“Jim, do you want to take a look inside?” Remi asked. She was looking at a little map on the sign.

“I do.”

“Lucky you. The sign has a map pointing to whoever is selling the building,” Remi replied. Jim looked at the map and added the location to his map.

“Let’s go and find this seller.”

*

An hour later a human named Joel along with Cora, his orc guard, returned to the building with Jim and his troop. Cora kept eyeing Jim, which caused Ari to huff and take his hand. Cora was larger than Sadie and her sisters, but still possessed a savage beauty that intrigued Jim. Jim grinned and squeezed Ari’s hand in return keeping his eyes off the 6 ft plus tall orc.

“As you can see Mr Merchant, this property is in a prime location,” Joel began his sales pitch. “My mother acquired it a few months ago after the previous tenant’s business failed, and he lost it to the bank.”

“Yes. I do like the location,” Jim agreed. He pointed at the fence. “That needs work. Why hasn’t something been done about it?”

“Haven’t had time,” Joel answered. Jim very much doubted that since the man had been napping when they found him. Joel unlocked the shop’s door and pulled a lantern from his inventory. Cora did likewise and lit both.

“I just thought of something else to sell,” Jim told Ari.

“Enchanted lanterns?” she asked. Jim looked at her in surprise and she smiled. “You are too easy to read sometimes.”

Chapter 81

“Ugh. Watch where you step,” Remi warned them and Rhett. Parts of the floor was covered in goop and other stains. The rest of the floor was dusty.”

“Yes, do be careful. A couple of the floorboards are weak. We wouldn’t want you falling into the basement,” Joel added. Cora snorted in amusement.

“Was this shop owned by an alchemist before?” Ari asked as she took in the goop.

“Why, yes. How did you know?”

“That,” Ari pointed at the goop, “is the sign of a failed alchemical brew.”

“It had been a bakery once. That failed and the owners’ son had an interest in alchemy, so he tried his hand at it. As he continued falling into debt, he put the shop up as collateral against a loan from the bank.”

“And when he was unable to pay it back, the bank foreclosed and your mother bought it,” Jim concluded as he looked around. Not only was the floor dirty and quite nasty in spots, but there were also cobwebs scattered about. Cora lit two lanterns attached to the walls to add more light. “Thank you, Cora.”

“Don’t mention it.”

“Yes, well, as you can see there is a main counter running in front of the backrooms and plenty of space for extra display,” Joel said. “Cora, would you be a dear and light the rest of the lanterns while Mr Merchant and his party look around front here? Please light up the basement too.”

“Of course,” the guard replied. She left taking a lantern with her. Rhett walked closer to the right wall and jumped back falling on his rear after his left foot went through the floor.

“Rhett!” Remi shouted.

“I’m alright,” he replied as Remi rushed to his side. “Be careful!”

“Do you need a potion or salve?” Ari asked.

“No. I’m more frightened than anything else,” Rhett answered as Remi helped him to his feet.

“At least you didn’t fall into any of the goop,” Jim quipped trying to lighten the mood.

“Ha-ha.”

“I’m glad you’re alright too,” Joel added. “Why don’t we take a look at the back rooms and then the basement and upstairs?”

“Sure, as long as we don’t fall through the floor,” Jim replied as the man led them into the back. A hallway led to them to three rooms.

“On the left we have a large storage room. And this was the bakery’s kitchen,” Joel advised leading them into the room on the right after they peeked into the empty storage room. Three large stone ovens were against the right wall and used the same chimney. Jim’s eyes lit up a little when he saw that. A large sink and pump were positioned against the back wall. “As you can see, there is a water pump for washing dishes and large sink.”

“That’s nice,” Ari replied. “Ugh. The sink is nasty.”

“Ah yes,” Joel agreed. A black substance coated the bottom of the sink.

“Does the pump work?” Rhett asked. He wanted to clean his hands.

“It should. Give it a try,” Joel answered. Rhett did so only for the pump handle to break. “Sorry about that.”

“What is the back room?” Remi asked as Jim pulled his waterskin out and poured water over Rhett’s hands as he held them over the sink.

“Thanks Jim.”

“That is an entrance and sitting room as well as where the stairs leading upstairs and to the basement are. Which would you like to see first?”

“The basement,” Jim answered. Joel led the way.

*

“All done Cora?”

“Yes,” the guard answered as they joined her in the basement.

“The basement has a wine cellar and cool storage room,” Joel informed them and gestured to two doors on the right. Jim and Ari checked the two rooms out. Both were filled with trash and cobwebs. Jim could have sworn he saw a cockroach in the cool storage room, which was not cool. Neither was the room.

“The storage room is not cool,” Ari said.

“It was never enchanted, and it has been warmer the last couple of years,” Joel replied in explanation. The rest of the basement was an open space that cluttered with refuse and garbage.

“This place needs a good cleaning,” Ari said looking over the rest of it. Cora snorted again.

“And then some,” Jim agreed.

“Yes, the building needs some work,” Joel replied. “Let’s take a look at the living quarters on the top floor.”

“Alright,” Jim agreed. Cora led the way to the second floor.

*

“The two bedrooms are on the left over the downstairs storage room,” Joel announced. The first bedroom was maybe a 10*10 open space without a closet. It did have a broken window overlooking the backyard and street beyond. “This is the larger of the two rooms.”

“This room is considered large?” Jim asked.

“Yes.”

“Let’s see the other one,” Jim replied shaking his head.

The small room overlooked the front and had no windows. It was roughly an 8*10 space with no closets. Neither room had torches or lanterns either.

“Might as well be in the basement,” Ari said upon looking around the room with a shake of her head. Remi and Rhett nodded in agreement.

“At least in the basement, one could feel the comfort of the ground around them,” Rhett said. Jim nudged Rhett and dipped his head indicating a hole in the floor. Rhett nodded in understanding.

“This room is more like a cage,” Remi added which made Cora snort again.

“Hmmm. Well, let’s take a look at the kitchen and sitting room,” Joel said. The kitchen was smaller than the one downstairs and held only a fireplace used for cooking along with some cabinets and shelves on the walls.

“This is an utter disappointment,” Jim mused. Joel grimaced.

“It’s a standard kitchen. What did you expect?”

“You should see the small kitchen in my wagon. It has an actual range and oven to cook with along with a sink unlike this.”

“Ah. What is a range?”

“A flat metal surface that is divided into separate spots that can be heated individually used for cooking,” Jim answered as he remembered he had the enchanted stove in his inventory. He considered pulling out the enchanted stove to show Joel, but the way the floor creaked made him doubt it would support the weight. “I can show you when we go back outside.”

“That sounds interesting and thanks,” Joel replied. “Let’s take a look at the sitting room and office space.”

“Alright,” Jim agreed as Joel led the way. He took Ari’s hand as they walked behind Joel.

“The room is L shaped. This main portion is sitting room,” Joel explained. The room was almost as large as the main floor storage room. Like everywhere else, the paint was cracked, peeling, and faded. “If you come through here, you can see the little study or office space.”

The office was a narrow space that barely had enough room for the rotting desk that sat in front of the window and bookshelves on either side of it. Water stains could be seen on the wall beneath the window and running from the ceiling.

“Is there an outhouse?” Remi asked.

“Indeed. It’s outback. I’ll show you,” Joel answered.

*

“There is the outhouse,” Joel stated while pointing to a small shack that was falling apart to the left of the main building. He then pointed to the right. There is the stable. The group ignored the outhouse and looked over the stable. It was in slightly better shape than the main building.

“Does the gate there open to another street?” Remi asked.

“It does.”

“This yard is big enough for a small garden,” Ari said. “How much do you want for this place?”

Joel’s eyes flashed. “200 gold, but I could go as low as 175 since the place needs some work.

“We would be better off setting all of this on fire and building from scratch,” Rhett muttered. Jim chuckled as he nodded in agreement.

“I couldn’t go a copper over 50 gold,” Jim replied.

“That is an insult!” Joel exclaimed.

“And anything over that is robbery,” Jim countered. “Thank you for your time, but we won’t be buying. Have a good afternoon.”

“We can come to an agreement,” Joel tried.

“I’m afraid not,” Jim replied taking Ari’s hand again. He led his group through the shop building and back out on the street without saying another word.

“Jim, would you have bought it if you had the coin?” Rhett asked when they were a block away.

“No. As I’ve said, I still want to travel and see Praha. The only way that will change is if I find an ideal location.”

“Like a small village or town in the mountains?” Ari asked.

“Yep,” Jim answered. “That appeals to me especially since we have an enchanter with us now.”

“Someone you have to come to an agreement on pay with first,” Remi said.

“Too true. Let’s get back to the wagons.”

Chapter 82

“About time you lot got back here,” Abel said as his greeting when Jim and the others got back to the wagons. “You were just going after metal. What took so long”

“Hi dad.”

“It’s good to see you too,” Rhett replied.

“We got your metals,” Ari added. “We then looked at a shop and house.”

“We also stopped at another metals merchant and bought 500 pounds of tin and 500 of copper,” Jim said.

“Don’t forget the mill where you bought 5000 pages of parchment,” Remi added.

“Lad, I figure you want the parchment for more notebooks,” Abel replied. Jim nodded in agreement. “But tin and copper? Do you want to make bronze? It’s worthless these days and copper is only good for making coins. Which is illegal.”

“I don’t want to counterfeit coins. I want to use whichever is easiest to make notebook covers and the loops instead of wood and steel,” Jim answered. The parchment cost 5 gold. The 1000 pounds of copper and tin only cost 1 gold.”

“I see. Maybe the copper and tin aren’t so worthless then,” Abel replied stroking his beard in thought.

“What are notebooks?” Kyra asked.

“The thing Jim writes and draws in,” Eloise answered.

“Oh. Copper and tin versions might be lighter than the wood,” Kyra mused.

“What about all the left-over copper and tin? 5000 pages of parchment will give you what, 100 notebooks?”

“200,” Jim answered. “I was also thinking we could make cheaper pens too. And maybe some cheap copper or bronze lanterns,” Jim nodded at Kyra, “that the newest member of our team could improve.”

“Ha! That makes a lot of sense,” Abel replied.

“How could I improve…oh! You want me to enchant them,” Kyra thought out what Jim wanted aloud. Jim smiled and nodded in agreement.

“Plus, you might could use some of the tin to make me more containers to further reduce my costs,” Ariana added. “That’s if there is enough to go around.”

“Could always buy more,” Leo told the group. “If tin is that cheap and you have this many uses for it, it might make sense to buy before others realize what you are doing.”

Everyone stared at Leo and his insight.

“Look at my husband showing business sense,” Eloise praised him.

“What? I’m not just a pretty face.”

“And there it is,” Rhett said while shaking his head in mock seriousness. “You just had to ruin it.”

“Are we still taking Kyra to a tavern in celebration?” Remi asked changing the subject. The other dwarves nodded yes. “Ari, do you and Jim want to come too?”

“I would like to,” Ariana answered looking at Jim.

“The wolves should be able to guard the wagons for a few hours alone, so sure,” Jim replied which made Ari smile.

“Jim, why do you want cheaper pens?” Kyra asked while fingering her engraving pen.

“Jim believes in selling more at a cheaper price instead of selling less at a higher price,” Ari answered.

“That and I’ve seen people looking at the pens but won’t or can’t spend what I’m asking for them.”

“Oh. That makes sense,” Kyra replied. She offered her pen to Ari and Jim, “What do you think of the engraving I did?”

Ariana took the pen and smiled. She showed it to Jim. The body had been engraved with flowers. “It’s pretty.”

“Do you think others would like to buy them this way?”

“Yes,” Jim answered. “It is something we can explore. I’m sure some people would love it with different designs.”

Kyra smiled. “I didn’t think I would be the only one!”

“Will you engrave mine tomorrow?” Ari asked.

“Yes. Well, if master Abel gives me time.”

“I will lass. Jim, where are you putting everything, you have been buying? Your inventory has to be overflowing.”

“Remember those traveler’s packs?”

“Oh. You’re filling and stacking them in your ring.”

“Yep,” Jim agreed. “Let’s let the wolves out and feed them. Then we can head to whatever tavern you guys have picked out.”

*

“The Seahorse isn’t as bad of a place as I thought it would be,” Ari remarked as the group took seats at a table.

“Why did you think it would be bad?” Eloise asked.

“It’s near the docks.”

“But it’s a dwarven establishment,” Remi replied.

“I didn’t know that.”

“You’re with dwarves. Where else would we drink and eat at?” Leo asked.

“Anywhere I guess,” Ariana answered with a shrug.

“That’s what I was thinking too,” Jim replied.

“Where is master Abel gone to?” Kyra asked.

“Dad is at the bar,” Remi answered. “Jim, do you have any sake left?”

“Yeah. Why?”

“Don’t be surprised if dad tries to use it to get cheaper or even free drinks,” Remi replied as Abel and two dwarven women walked their way. One of them was carrying a tray of drinks.

“Belinda, Rita, these are my daughters, Eloise and Remi. The two lads are Leo and Rhett, their husbands. The other two women are Kyra, my apprentice, and Ariana, an alchemist. The last fellow is Jim, our employer. He is the one that has the drink we were talking about,” Abel said as he started introductions. “Everyone, these two lovely ladies are Belinda, owner of this fine establishment, and her daughter, Rita.”

Pleasantries and greetings were exchanged as Rita served the drinks.

“What is in the pots tonight?” Leo asked.

“We have fish or venison stews tonight,” Rita answered. “And fresh bread.”

“We’ll have the fish, Eloise answered for herself and Leo.

“Us too,” Remi added for herself and Rhett.

“I’ll take the venison,” Kyra replied.

“I’ll take a bowl of each,” Abel said patting his stomach.

“Venison for me as well,” Ari told Rita when she turned to take her order.

“I’ll have the same as Ari and Kyra,” Jim said when Rita took his.

“I’ll be back shortly with the food,” Rita said walking off with her tray.

“While we have time, Abel mentioned you have a new type of wine,” Belinda said to Jim.

“I knew it,” Remi said looking at her dad. Abel shrugged.

“I do,” Jim replied ignoring Remi and Abel. Jim pulled two bottles from his inventory. “It comes in two flavors. The first is the basic flavor and the second is apple.”

“Might I try them?”

“Of course,” Jim agreed as Belinda pulled a cup from her inventory.

“Tastes different that any wine I’ve ever had.”

“Yeah, it is,” Jim agreed. He poured from the second bottle,” This is the apple.”

“Much sweeter. I like that better,” Belinda said after she finished the cup. “How many bottles do you have and how much do you want for them?”

“I have 27 of each. The apple is 4 silvers a bottle while the plain is 2 silvers a bottle.”

“I’ll give you 1 gold and 50 silvers for all of them plus free food and drink tonight,” Belinda offered.

“I accept that deal,” Jim replied with a grin. He stood. If you’ll show me where you want the bottles, I’ll be glad to put them there.”

“You have it all on you?”

“I do.”

“Here is your money,” Belinda said giving Jim the coin. “Follow me and I’ll show you where to put them.”

*

“Jim, I got distracted and didn’t ask earlier, but why did you look at a shop and house today?” Abel asked.

“For the future,” Jim answered. Ari and Kyra stopped their conversation and listened to the merchant and smith. “I’m not ready to give up the road yet, but I don’t see myself or any of us traveling forever.”

“That’s especially true for me,” Abel agreed. “This is fun and different, but the coming cold winter months will remind me why I prefer to be in a smithy with four strong walls keeping the heat in and cold out.”

“We could always winter in a village,” Jim offered.

“And have you miss out on making money? Nay lad. I can’t ask you to do that.”

“Thanks. Part of me likes the idea of staying somewhere warm over the winter, but the rest of me wants to keep traveling and selling.”

“What are you looking for in a shop and house?” Ari asked Jim.

“Something like we saw today.”

“But in better shape?” Ari asked with a laugh.

“Indeed. I loved that the property was fenced in with a large backyard and stable. I would like that for any place we settle,” Jim explained and paused to give a questioning look to Ari. She smiled and nodded. He continued, “to have at least one outbuilding to be used as a smithy. I know the wagons are enchanted, but maybe a barn to keep them in as well as a stable for the mules and ponies too.”

“And where would the rest of us live” Kyra asked.

“In the main shop with us or perhaps in other small houses on the property,” Jim answered with a shrug.

“You don’t think small,” the enchanter replied.

“A place like that would be worth a 100 gold or more unlike the shop we saw today,” Rhett said. Remi and the others nodded in agreement.

“You want more of a trading post than shop it seems,” Eloise told Jim. He shrugged.

“Maybe.”

“Sounds nice though,” Ari replied.

“Aye lass. It does,” Abel agreed.

“You need to make a lot more coin then,” Leo said. “Maybe we shouldn’t stay here the whole two weeks.”

“I’ve started thinking the same thing,” Jim admitted. “All the spices and herbs I bought are doing us no good here.”

“Too many others sell them,” Rhett said.

“Yep.”

“I could use some of them to make teas and potions,” Ari reminded them.

“That’s true,” Remi added her voice.

“We’ll stay a few more days. I want to see what Abel and Kyra can do with the coffee pots and fountain pens if they use the cheaper metals,” Jim told the group.

“Speaking of enchanting, what are you going to pay me to do that?” Kyra asked.

“How are 20 silvers a month to start? I’ll be supplying the mithril and other materials just like I do Abel.”

“Blaire got paid by the job.”

“I know. But you will only be enchanting part time. The rest of the time, you’ll be learning how to be a smith under Abel,” Jim countered. “Plus, I’ve been thinking of redoing Abel’s deal. If sales are good enough, I can give you both bonuses.”

“It’s fair lass,” Abel replied. “I’m getting twice that and I’m much more experienced than you are.”

“Plus, you’ll be living with us and getting most meals free,” Remi pointed out.

“And you’ll be working on new things nobody else is doing,” Ari added.

“Alright. We have a deal,” Kyra said after a moment’s thought.

“I’ll write up an employment contract in the morning,” Jim promised.

“We’ll start on the new pens tomorrow morning,” Abel told Kyra and Jim. “Then we might tackle the notebook covers in the afternoon.”

“Sounds good,” Jim replied and sipped his mead.

Chapter 83

“What do you need Abel?” Jim asked as he walked to Abel’s forge in the livery’s back lot. Kyra rejoined Abel as she had been sent to fetch Jim.

“Just to show you what we’ve done so far today,” Abel answered. He gestured to some items laying on a table. “First we have a copper pen. That turned out well, but I’m not sure about the color.”

“I’m not wild about the color either, but as long as it sells,” Jim replied and shrugged. He pointed to a second pen. “Is that the tin one?”

“Aye.”

“We made some brass for the heads,” Kyra added.

“You mean nibs?” Jim asked tapping the pen’s nib.

“Yes,” Kyra answered.

“Have you tried one to see if they work?”

“No,” Abel answered. “I wanted you to try them.”

“Well, let’s see how they do,” Jim replied pulling out an inkpot. He filled both prototypes with ink. Jim held the copper one out to Kyra. “Here Kyra. You look like you want to try one too.”

“I do,” she replied taking the pen. Both worked just as well as the steel pens did. “They work!”

“You doubted me?” Abel asked his new apprentice.

“I’ve never made anything before,” Kyra replied sheepishly.

“She made one of these?” Jim asked.

“Aye. She made the copper one.”

“Good job.”

“Thank you, but it was easy. Master Abel has a mold.”

“Aye. I have a bigger mold that will allow us to make more than one pen at a time too.”

“How many do you think you can make in a day?”

“I’ll have you at least 25 of each before the end of the day.”

“Thanks. What about the coffee pot? I thought you wanted to do it this afternoon?”

“We’ll do both,” Abel answered. He grinned. “Apprentices are for doing the grunt work with the mold.”

“Ah! That’s not funny,” Kyra pouted.

“It is, and it’s true too,” Abel countered. “The metal costs a copper a pound and each pen only took a few ounces to make. How much do you think you can charge for the copper and ten pens?”

“I’m not worried about your labor costs, so a silver or maybe even less.”

“Why so little?” Kyra asked.

“To sell more. We’ll still make a profit,” Jim answered with a shrug. “Let’s leave all the copper and tin pens basic. No engravings except for your maker’s mark if you have one.”

“I do,” Abel replied. “You want the steel pens engraved?”

“Yeah. That will be something to set them apart beyond the metal used to make them.”

“And let people see why you charge more for them,” Kyra concluded.

“Exactly.”

“Oh! Jim, before you go, here take this,” Abel said holding out the prototype sunglasses.

“When did you do this?” Jim asked taking the sunglasses.

“Yesterday,” Abel answered. Jim tried them on.

“They are a little tight,” Jim said taking the glasses off. “They need to be a little bigger for my face. These might work well for Kyra, Ari, Eloise, or Remi though.”

“Can I try them?” Kyra asked. “And what are they for?”

“Sure,” Jim answered handing her the glasses. She put them on while Jim gave Abel the 7 steel pens. “Sunglasses are made to lessen the bright sunlight.”

“Oh! These are nice,” Kyra said with a smile.

“And they fit you better than me too,” Jim replied with a smile of his own.

“Jim, bend down so I can measure your head. That way I can make sure the next one I make fits you.”

“They are a little heavy though,” Kyra complained. “Perhaps making them out of bronze, copper, or tin would be better than steel.”

“Aluminum or nickel would be better,” Abel replied. “Both are lightweight.”

“There is aluminum and nickel here?” Jim asked.

“Aye. They are cheaper than tin and copper too. Both are mostly used to make inexpensive forks, spoons, plates, and cups,” Abel answered. “I’m surprised you know those metals.”

“They would make good, cheap pens too,” Jim guessed. “We had the same metals where I’m from.”

“Aye. Makes sense. And I think they would make pens too.”

“Looks like you’re going shopping again,” Kyra said.

“Yep. Let me get one or two of the others to go with me and I’ll be back as soon as possible,” Jim replied.

“While you’re gone, Kyra will start making more copper and tin pens while I engrave the 7 steel ones,” Abel said. Kyra groaned making Jim and Abel laugh.

*

“Jim, did you really have to buy 3000 ingots?” Leo asked shaking his head. “Plus, another 500 each of tin and copper?”

“Yep. They were cheap and Abel and I have plans to use them,” Jim answered. “The only thing I didn’t like was having to visit all five metal dealers to get what I wanted.”

“Your plans make dad happy,” Eloise told Jim. “We haven’t seen him this happy or excited since before we moved to Raven’s Rest.”

“Really?”

“Aye,” Leo answered. “He’s leveled for the first time in years too, which helps.”

“So, thank you,” Eloise said.

“You’re welcome,” Jim replied shrugging his shoulders. “You guys have been a pleasure to be around and do great work.”

“Plan on keeping us around if you settle down?” Leo asked. “I heard a bit about what you and Abel talked about last night.”

“Yeah, I do. That’s if you guys want to stay.”

“Were you serious about not wanting to settle in a bigger city or town?” Eloise asked.

“Yes.”

“You’ll be missing out on the chance for a lot of profit.”

“Maybe,” Jim replied as they kept walking back towards the market square where the wagons were. “But I don’t mind.”

“Are you sick?” Leo asked. “I’ve never heard a merchant say that before.”

“When I first started on this path, I had the goal of getting rich and living in luxury.”

“And now?” Eloise asked.

“I have Ari and you guys. I’m good making enough to set us up someplace to be comfortable.”

“Like a small village by the sea?” Leo asked.

“I was thinking someplace in or near mountains with a waterfall, lake or river, and forested.”

“Trying to find a place that has something for everyone?” Eloise inquired.

“Perhaps. I’ve always enjoyed the mountains more than the coast, but it does work for everyone if Ari and Kyra are comfortable with it.”

“True. They’re city girls,” Leo replied.

“So am I,” Eloise said with a mock growl. “City boy!”

“I…”

“Just teasing you, honey.”

*

“You really should ditch Jim Merchant and set up a shop of your own here in Diamond Shoals,” Malik told Ariana.

“Yeah!” Exclaimed Zak, a goblin shaman. “We would buy all of our potions from you.”

“We could also take you drinking with us,” Reed, an orc warrior added.

“No thank you,” Ari finally said. She was grinding chamomile petals to add to the ones in the tin she was filling to sell. An elderly woman had asked her to do so as she did not like using the whole flower and preferred grounds instead of whole petals. Ari was tired of the adventurers hitting on her, yet she did not want to tell them about her relationship with Jim as it was none of their business. So, she said, “I’m perfectly happy traveling with Jim. We have a great arrangement.”

“You guys aren’t buying anything. That means you really need to move on,” Remi said coming to Ari’s aid. She was well past tired of watching the adventurers hassle her friend. They had been doing so since shortly after Jim, Eloise, and Leo left.

“This is a free market, we can do what we want,” Reed growled while staring down at the shorter woman.

“My wife is correct. You need to move along, Rhett added.

“Make us,” Kason said as he stepped out of the shadows of a neighboring wagon to join the other adventurers. Hands dropped to weapons and people started gathering around anticipating a fight.

“Ari, you might want to hide in the wagon,” Rhett told the alchemist.

“It’s locked and Jim is the only one that can unlock it.”

“We’ll remind him to change that,” Remi said. The four aki wolves came out from under Jim’s wagon at that moment. Dusk bristled and started growling as he sensed his mistress’ distress. Kayja, May, and Rex followed the alpha’s actions.

“Wait a minute! Calm down!” Malik shouted while eyeing the wolves.

“I’m not scared of dwarves and wolves,” Reed said.

“I am,” Zak admitted.

“I’m not,” Kason replied.

“A guard patrol is coming,” Malik told them. “Besides, the dwarves are higher level than we are!”

“Fine. We’ll go, but we’ll be back,” Reed said.

“No, you won’t,” an older woman announced. “Shiloh, Simeon, remove these adventurers.”

“Who do you think you are?” Kason asked turning to face the newcomers. His eyes widened. “Madam Herring!”

“Right away madam,” the larger of the older woman’s two orc guards replied. He turned to the adventurers. “Leave!”

“We’re going!” Malik answered for the adventurers. All four left without another word. The wolves calmed and sat down.

“Is my chamomile ready dear?” the old woman asked Ariana when she was able to approach the table.

“Yes ma’am,” Ari answered. “Might I ask why they were afraid of you?”

“Of course. I happen to own a tenth of the buildings in the city and anyone that has been here for a while knows this.”

“Then why are you visiting this market and buying your own supplies?” Ari blurted out.

“I enjoy visiting the markets and doing my own shopping,” Madam Herring laughed.

“Oh,” Ari replied uneasily.

“Relax child. Here are the 10 coppers we agreed on,” the older woman said while giving Ariana the coin. “Those adventurers will not bother you again. Simeon, see to it that they understand the price for disturbing Ariana and her group again.”

“Yes ma’am!” the guard replied before slipping through the crowd. Ari gave the tin to the woman.

“Thank you, ma’am.”

“Thank you, dear. Have a good afternoon,” Madam Herring replied before walking off with her guard in tow.

“What’s going on?” Jim asked Ariana as he pulled her into his arms for a hug after watching the older woman leave. Leo, Eloise, and he had just returned and missed the excitement.

“Not much. Just some guys harassing me,” Ari answered ending the hug a moment later. “I’m going to start doing my work in the wagon or behind it again though.”

“Fine by me if that is what you want.”

“It is.”

Chapter 84

“Jim, do you have a moment?” a feminine voice asked.

Jim looked up and saw a couple of the other traveling merchants in front of his table. He closed the book he was reading. “Sure. What do you want to talk about Beth?”

“Johan, Tim, Amber, and I are wondering how much longer you intend to stay in Diamond Shoals,” the merchant answered as she gestured to the other traders standing with her.

“My permit is good for more than a week, but I’m not sure if I’ll stay that long. Why do you want to know?”

“We are leaving in two days and heading up to Raven’s Rest and on to the heartland after that. There is safety in numbers, so we thought you might like to join our caravan.”

“Aye. The rumors of that troll on the way to Raven’s Rest has me worried,” Amber said.

“Skarn?” Jim asked.

“Who?”

“Skarn is the only troll I know of on the that trail,” Jim answered. “He’s easy to get along with.”

“You’ve dealt with this troll?” Beth asked.

“I have. Twice in fact.”

“Trolls are brutes,” Johan replied. “They can’t be negotiated with.”

“Not true. Skarn is slow but is more than willing to trade. I suggest bringing meat to trade or to bribe him to let you pass,” Jim replied with a smile as he thought about the troll. He recounted his interactions with the troll for the other merchants.

“I’ll take your word then,” Beth told Jim. “If the troll, Skarn you said?” Jim nodded. “If this Skarn is willing to protect the trail in exchange for meat, I’m more than willing to make that deal with it.”

“So am I,” Beth agreed.

“Me too,” Tim added. Johan shook his head and shrugged.

“I’ll talk it over with my team and let you guys know what we decide. We just came from the western part of the kingdom though,” Jim said the others returning to the original question.

“You let your slaves, indentured, and employees have input on your decisions?” Johan asked.

“I have no indentured or slaves.”

“Still, people you pay do what you order, not have input in your decisions,” Amber replied.

“No, I think Jim is correct,” Beth countered. “An employee can be a trusted advisor. Slaves and indentured can be as well.”

“I agree with Beth,” Tim added.

“So do I,” Jim agreed. “But I also don’t believe in having slaves or indentured folk. I would rather pay someone.”

“I wouldn’t go that far,” Tim replied. “Indentured and slave labor is a lot cheaper that a paid employee.”

“Perhaps,” Jim said. “But that is the way I feel.”

“Jim, where were you planning on heading next if you don’t mind my asking,” Amber asked.

“I was thinking north along the coast and then to the Eastern Forests.”

“Not a bad plan, but there is not a lot of villages along that route,” Beth replied.

“I know. I want to see the whole kingdom though.”

“Then why not go see the capital and rest of the heartland before the Forests?” Amber asked.

“There is more to see, less danger, and more profit in the heartland,” Johan added with a smile.

“The heartland is mostly open plains, villages, and farmland, isn’t it?” Jim asked.

“Aye.”

“I’m more partial to forests and mountains,” Jim told the other merchants as Kayja came over and nudged his leg. Jim started rubbing the wolf.

“You might be safe enough with the four wolves and guards though,” Tim conceded. “Especially if you are able to level the wolves up on the way to the Forests.”

“Those wolves are too small to be a threat to bigger monsters,” Johan scoffed.

“Don’t discount Aki Wolves,” Tim warned. “Yes, they are small. That said, they are excellent hunters and fearless. My brother’s pack has taken down bears.”

“Then why don’t you have any?”

“I’ve been waiting on him to breed them.”

“Oh.”

“Tim, you just gave me a good idea,” Jim said.

“What? Breeding your wolves?”

“No. Taking them out and letting them hunt,” Jim answered while continuing to rub Kayja.

“Aye, that is a good idea,” Eloise agreed. Leo nodded in agreement as well. The pair had been silent until then.

“Sounds like you won’t be going with us,” Beth said.

“I have five more people to ask first,” Jim replied. “But yeah, I don’t think they will disagree about letting the wolves hunt and level.”

“Especially if the wolves bring back meat,” Tim said.

“That, and three of them can work on their crafts,” Leo added.

“And we can train as well,” Elise replied to her husband.

“True.”

“Well, we will plan to go on without you.”

“I’ll let you know as I promised earlier,” Jim replied. The other merchants nodded and left.

*

“What’s this about a caravan?” Abel asked as he finished his lunch.

“Some of the other merchants want Jim and us to join them on their way to the heartland,” Ariana answered. The others stared at her. “What? Jim and I talked about it while he helped me cook lunch.”

“And Jim would rather go our own way?” Remi asked.

“I do. I really want to see the Eastern Forests and Northern Mountains before the capital or heartland.” Jim shrugged.

“And let the wolves hunt for a bit?” Rhett asked.

“Aye.”

“Makes sense,” Kyra replied. “From what I’ve read the Eastern Forests can be dangerous.”

“Anywhere can be dangerous,” Abel corrected his apprentice.

“You got me there,” Kyra agreed. She turned to Jim. “Will we still be able to work on our crafts?”

“Yeah. I think we’ll find a place that we can defend.”

“What do you mean we?” Leo asked with a grin.

“That the guards can defend easily enough,” Jim corrected. “And then we let the wolves hunt, run, and whatever else they need to do to level up some. While they do that, the rest of you can work on your crafts.”

“What will you be doing?” Eloise asked.

“Reading, napping, or helping where I can,” Jim answered with a smile.

“Slacker!” Ari exclaimed.

“I knew I should have named myself McFly,” Jim replied to the confusion of the others. Seeing their expressions, he continued, “Never mind. That’s a reference from the other place.”

“Well, we don’t want you slacking here,” Abel told Jim. He pulled out a stack of thin metal plates and rings from his inventory. “These are the things you need to make notebooks.”

“And try these on,” Kyra added handing Jim frames missing lenses.

“Another prototype?” Jim asked. Kyra and Abel nodded yes. Jim tried the frames on. “These fit much better.”

“Ari, Eloise, and Remi try these on,” Kyra told the other women holding up the first prototype. “These are the first prototype of Jim’s sunglasses. They’re too small for his face.”

“Reminds me of the snow blinders we use in the mountains,” Eloise said after trying them on. “They fit nicely though.”

“A little too dark here with all the shade,” Remi observed. “And they’re a bit heavy on my face.”

“True on both counts. I like the idea though,” Ari agreed. Remi and Elise nodded in agreement.

“We are planning on using lighter metals,” Abel informed them as Leo and Rhett tried on the empty frames. He took the empty frames back.

“They fit a lot better,” Jim informed his smith. Leo and Rhett nodded in agreement.

“Good. I’ll start working on the lighter frames this afternoon after we make more of the pens. Have fun with the notebooks,” Abel said as he stood and gestured for Kyra to follow him to the back lot where they worked.

“Want to help me with making notebooks?” Jim asked Ari.

“Nope. I’m going to work on some more alchemical goods for you.”

“We’ll help Jim,” Rhett told him.

“Yeah, it gets boring standing around unless you’re selling things,” Leo added.

“What’s the difference?” Jim asked.

“We have to watch for thieves when you’re selling. Otherwise, people generally leave us alone.”

“Ah. Makes sense. Let’s get started.”

Chapter 85

“Mommy, what are those people making?”

“I don’t know dear.”

“We are making notebooks,” Jim told the mother and daughter without looking up.

“You heard us?”

“I did. My name is Jim Merchant and these two are my guards, Rhett and Leo.”

“I am Louise Greene, and this is my daughter, Lara,” the woman replied. Jim looked up and smiled. The woman was elven and her daughter half elf.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you both.”

“And you three as well,” Louise returned.

“Can I come closer and watch?” Lara asked.

“Lara, we don’t want to get in the way.”

“It’s fine,” Jim said. “She won’t be in the way.”

“What about your aki wolves? I saw them before when your alchemist and female guards were having issues with some adventurers,” Louise said. The three men exchanged looks.

“The wolves won’t be a bother and are behind the wagon with Ari, Eloise, and Remi,” Rhett answered.

“Can I mommy?”

“Ok.”

“Yay!” Lara squealed as she ran up to the table. Jim pulled a chair from his inventory and sat it to the side. The girl climbed up into it without being prompted. Louise walked up behind the chair and held her daughter as the girl stood in the chair watching Jim and the others assemble a few notebooks. “That’s neat! What are they for?”

“Notebooks are used for writing or drawing,” Jim answered.

“I like drawing,” Lara stated.

“Me too,” Jim agreed. “Well, sometimes.”

“Do you use a quill to draw and write with?”

“No. I use a pen.”

“What’s that?”

“This,” Jim answered showing the little girl a fountain pen.

“Can I try it?”

“Yeah,” Jim answered showing Lara how to uncap the pen and how to use it.

“It’s like a quill that doesn’t need to be dipped in ink!”

“They are similar,” Jim agreed.

“Do you sell the pens as well as the notebooks?” Louise asked.

“Yes. Pens like this one were 18 silvers,” Jim answered. He noticed the shocked expression on the woman’s face. “I know that is pricey, but my smith is working on some much cheaper versions.”

“Oh?”

“Jim, you and Rhett can finish the last couple of notebooks. I’m going to see if Abel has finished any of those other pens,” Leo announced before Jim could answer Louise. He took off without another word.

“Slacker,” Rhett muttered which made Jim chuckle.

“How much cheaper?” Louise asked after trying the pen herself.

“I’m thinking 50 coppers to 1 silver.”

“That’s all? That’s not much of a reduction in price.”

“Sorry. I meant that’s how much I’m thinking of charging for them,” Jim clarified.

“What are you using to make them, copper?”

“Along with aluminum and tin,” Jim admitted. “All three metals are much cheaper than steel or iron.”

“That’s true. Most people consider them worthless except for making copper coins or cheap utensils.”

“I’m surprised you know that” Rhett commented as he finished the last notebook.

“My husband and I run a general store. I brought Lara along with me to see if there was anything any of the traveling merchants might have that caught my eye while Dan, my husband, runs our shop.”

“That makes sense,” Jim agreed. “I take it you might be interested in the notebooks and pens?”

“I might,” Louise replied with a slight grin. “Why did your guard go behind the livery? There is nothing there but an empty lot.”

“That is where Abel is working,” Jim answered.

“Oh.”

“It worked!” a scream sounded from behind the wagon. A moment later Ariana came rushing up carrying a tray with something on it. Everyone had turned at her scream.

“Are you ok? What did you do?” Jim asked.

“I made this,” Ari answered. “And I’m more than happy!”

“Ariana is my companion and alchemist,” Jim advised Louise.

“What is that?” Lara asked. “It smells good.”

Ari noticed the girl and her mother. She smiled. “These are dandelion candies. Would you like to try one?”

“Can I mommy?” Lara asked turning from the tray to look at her mother.

“I don’t know.”

“They are not like traditional candy. Dandelions are healthy and these candies have those benefits. I also used a powder made from stevia or as it is more commonly known candyleaf instead of sugar. Stevia has healthy benefits too.”

“Did you put anything else in them?” Louise asked.

“Ginger, turmeric, and honey.”

“All have healthy benefits,” Louise replied. Ari’s smile got bigger as she nodded in agreement. “You may have one Lara.”

“Yay!”

“Here you go,” Ari told the girl. She asked the others as Lara took one of the candies, “Would anyone else like one?

“Sure,” Jim answered as Rhett nodded yes.

“Thank you,” Louise said as she took one.

“That’s good!” Lara exclaimed.

“It is. Not too sweet either,” Louise replied to her daughter.

“What have I missed?” Leo asked as he Eloise and Remi walked up. “Here are your nickel pens, Jim.”

“Candy,” Jim answered as he took the pens. He put the 50 nickel pens in his inventory. “Thanks.”

“Try them,” Ari told the others. Other people started gathering around to see what the commotion was about.

“Can I have another?” Lara asked.

“If it is ok with your mommy,” Ari answered the child. She looked up at her mother, who nodded.

“Thank you!” Lara said as Ariana gave her another candy.

“Are you going to sell these?” Louise asked. The few other people that got to try one all commented that they liked the candy and would buy it too.

“That’s the idea. Price is up to Jim,” Ari answered Louise. He was filling one of the nickel pens with ink. He tried the pen and smiled.

“I’ll have to think about a price. Healthy candy is not something I’ve seen in a shop before.”

“How did you come up with the recipe?” someone asked.

“That is a secret,” Ariana answered with a laugh. She was thinking about the recipe book Jim had bought for her in Raven’s Rest.

“Figures,” the person replied with a laugh of their own.

“I’m going to go make more and try a couple of other recipes I have,” Ariana told Jim after kissing his cheek. She, Eloise, and Remi walked off.

“That’s what you meant by companion,” Louise said.

“Yeah,” Jim replied with a goofy grin. “Try this pen.”

“This works as smoothly as your steel one does,” Louise replied. “How much for all 50 of these and 50 of your notebooks?”

“Three gold. That is 50 coppers for each pen and 1 silver per notebook.”

“That is sort of high.”

“I’ll also promise not to sell any nickel pens here in Diamond Shoals for the same price unless it is to another merchant that wants to buy in bulk too,” Jim replied. “That way someone can’t say I’m undercutting your price if you charge 75 coppers or a silver per pen.”

“I like that, but I’m still not sure.”

“I’ll also throw in a notebook for Lara and my pen that she is using,” Jim said. Since there was no more candy, the child had started doodling in a notebook. Both adults looked at the little girl.

“Alright. That is acceptable,” Louise replied. Jim wrote a bill of sale and signed it. He handed it to Louise and made a copy for himself. Louise signed both and gave Jim 3 gold coins.

“Thank you,” Jim said as he took the coins. He gave her the notebooks and pens.

“Thank you too,” Louise replied. “What about the candy?”

“I’ll have to see what Ari says. I’m not sure how much she can make in a batch, or how long it takes to make. Check back with me tomorrow afternoon or the next day and I’ll have an answer for you.”

“That works,” Louise agreed. She put the items in her inventory except for the notebook and pen her daughter had. Lara refused to let them go. “My husband or I will see you then. Come along Lara.”

“Ok mommy!”

Chapter 86

“How many of those dandelion drops do you think you can make?” Jim asked Ariana.

“In a single batch?”

“Yeah.”

“100,” Ari answered. “Why do you want to know? Did Louise want to buy some?”

“Yes, she wants to buy some. Her and her husband run a general store, so she would probably want a lot.”

“It takes a while to make a batch since I have to crush some of the ingredients.”

“And other people will want them too. Even more so once more people see they act like a sip from a health potion,” Eloise added. “I’m surprised whoever invented it didn’t sell a lot more of them.”

“Yeah, I never heard of healthy candies before,” Remi replied.

“I’m not sure why Pearl never sold more. I guess she was content with what she was doing,” Ari said.

“That too. Wait. What?”

“If the person is not wounded, the candy just has healthy benefits. If they are wounded or sick, the candy acts like a health potion,” Ariana explained. “Pearl did an amazing job with that recipe.”

“Yeah, I’ll agree that she did,” Jim replied. “I had wanted to leave in a couple of days instead of staying for the whole two weeks our permit gives us, but we might have to stay so we can make this candy and whatever else you have in mind. And I really wanted to let the wolves hunt a bit.”

“Why not let Rhett and Leo take turns taking the wolves out for a day?” Remi asked.

“Would they be willing to do that?” Ari asked.

“If we ask them to, yes,” Eloise answered. “It’s outside our contracted duties after all.”

“Alright. If you’ll do that, I’ll help Ariana with whatever she needs help with the next few days to make these candies,” Jim told the guards.

“And what will the rest of us do?” Remi asked. “Just guard?”

“That or help if you like. I’ll pay a bonus,” Jim replied. Eloise and Remi exchanged a look and nodded.

“Alright. We’ll help too,” Eloise said.

“I’ll go tell our men,” Remi told the others.

*

Over the next three days, all four wolves reached level 7 by taking down three sea drakes. The wolves didn’t have any luck in hunting anything other than the monsters though. Like their mountain cousins, the sea drake hides could be sold for at least a gold each, the hearts 2 gold, and the claws 25 silvers a piece. In that same time frame, Ariana, Eloise, Remi, and Jim made 1500 dandelion candies or drops as Jim called them. Jim sold 500 to Louise and Dan for a copper each. The other thousand would either be sold or perhaps given away to kids. Jim gave the 50 silvers to Ariana and the others as a bonus.

Abel and Kyra had not been idle during that time. The smith and enchanter/apprentice had made enough pens to give Jim 100 of the cheaper ones and 50 of the engraved steel pens. The duo had finished 25 of the enchanted coffee pots as well, which Kyra suggested Jim charge 2 gold for each. He decided on 1 gold per pot until he saw if they would sell or not. The pair also finished the sunglasses as well as 200 fishing hooks. Everyone on the team had a pair. Jim had six pair to sell as well. Jim decided to charge 5 silvers for the sunglasses since the frames were made from an aluminum alloy that was very similar to duralumin and he figured the cost would be about a silver or a little more when labor and the quartz was added in. He went with the 1 silver per hook price he did before. Jim was quite pleased with the results and gave the smith and apprentice the same 10 silver bonus the others had gotten. This left Jim 41 gold, 91 silvers, and 32 coppers.

While they were happy to get the bonus, they were giddy when they were informed about the sea drake parts as was Ariana. The hearts became 36 major health potions with a price of 25 silvers each. The hides and over 6-inch claws would become armor and daggers according to Abel. Jim figured he would price them decently as well depending on the craftsmanship. The smaller villages between Diamond Shoals and the Eastern Forests would probably mean less coin.

*

“Thinking about leaving Diamond Shoals again?” Ari asked as she rubbed Dusk and Kayja on the bed. Jim was looking over maps again.

“Yeah. I’m ready to hit Dodman Bay, Kingsbur, and Seahaven and then head to the Eastern Forests,” Jim answered. He looked up to face her. “But if you would rather stay here until the permit runs out, we can do that.”

“No. I’m anxious to see what kind of alchemical ingredients we can find along the coast and in the forests.”

“I knew you would say that” Jim said with a smile.

“What can I say? I’m a girl that loves what she does,” Ariana replied with a smile of her own. “Do you know where you want to go in the Eastern Forests?”

“Little Headwater to start. It is a village where the river meets the forests. From there, Bison Creek, Southern Forest, and then to Sylvia on the east coast.”

“Sylvia is the territorial capital, isn’t it?”

“According to the maps it is. From there, on to the Northern Mountains.”

“And what if you find a place you want to settle in before finishing the planned trek or if we are not allowed entry?”

“Then we talk about it and make new plans,” Jim answered with a shrug. He shut the atlas as he yawned.

“Ready for bed?”

“Maybe.”

“Play with the wolves and let me change then.”

“Alright,” Jim agreed and moved to the bed after Ari headed to the tiny bathroom. It now had a curtain separating it from the rest of the wagon. She returned a few minutes later wearing Jim’s white elven shirt. “You’ve taken both of my favorite shirts now.”

“I have,” Ari agreed. “I told you before they make great sleeping gowns. Before we leave here, we can find you a tailor and see about finding you more shirts.”

“Going to take them too?”

“I might,” Ari answered as she crawled into bed. “Get ready for bed.”

“Yes dear,” Jim agreed and headed to the bathroom. When he returned a few minutes later he noticed the wolves were laying in the floor. He raised an eyebrow in question. Kayja and Dusk mostly slept at the foot of the bed with them.

“Turn off the lights. I think it is time we take our relationship further.”

“Yes ma’am,” Jim agreed. He wouldn’t question Ariana on what she wanted since she had made up her mind. He turned off the lights without another word.

Chapter 87

“You two seem to be a bit closer this morning,” Kyra observed.

“We had a good night,” Ari replied to snickers from the two married couples and Abel.

“You have a bit of a glow this morning lass,” Abel answered Ariana’s silent question. “And as Kyra stated, you two are a bit more handsy this morning than usual.”

“Here’s the 5 coppers I owe you,” Rhett told a smug looking Leo. “Can’t believe they couldn’t even make it a month before doing the deed.”

“What?” Leo asked the group. “Betting on how long it took them was worthwhile.”

“I should let Kayja and Dusk eat you two,” Jim muttered.

“I could poison them instead,” Ari offered. Kyra’s eyes widened in alarm at the casual talk of murder.

“They’ll be no murdering of our husbands,” Remi told the alchemist and merchant with a grin.

“Unless we do it,” Eloise added to a nod from Remi and laugh from Abel.

“I didn’t say murder. I said poison,” Ari retorted with a grin of her own.

“Just remember that if you poison us, we can’t protect you or Jim,” Rhett replied.

“You are all nuts,” Kyra said while shaking her head.

“It’s just a little playful banter lass. Don’t be alarmed or take it seriously,” Abel told his apprentice.

“Alright. Are we still working on those surprises today?”

“Aye.”

“Surprises?” Jim asked.

“Aye.”

“Is that all you’re going to say?” Jim asked while smiling.

“Nay. You’ll like the surprises and should be able to sell them here.”

“Now I’m curious.”

“Curiosity killed the rock cat,” Remi warned.

“Funny. I thought it was the stone troll that killed the rock cat,” Ari replied.

“Ha! That too,” Eloise agreed.

“You saw a stone troll kill a rock cat?” Kyra asked.

“No,” Leo answered. “Jim traded with one for the body though.”

“Don’t look so surprised,” Rhett told her.

“Trolls are smarter than most people think,” Jim added. “Skarn is good people.”

“You’re just saying that because the troll traded with you twice and kept us from possibly being followed after we left Raven’s Rest,” Rhett replied. Jim shrugged and smiled in answer which made the others laugh.

“We need to find a tailor and get Jim some more shirts today,” Ari told the group.

“Why?” Eloise asked.

“She took both my good shirts to sleep in,” Jim answered.

“They make good sleeping shirts,” Ari protested.

“We understand,” Remi told Ariana. “We have done the same thing.”

“Jim could use a nicer outfit or two,” Eloise added. “Especially if we settle somewhere. The common looking clothing is alright for the small villages, but I’ve noticed some of the fancier dressed people will not stop to look at Jim’s wares once they see what he is wearing.”

“So have I,” Rhett agreed to nods from the other guards. Jim looked like he wanted to argue.

“Face it sweetie, you’ve been outvoted,” Ari told Jim.

“I suppose I have.”

“Well, have fun with shopping. Kyra and I need to get to work,” Abel said as he and Kyra stood. Abel called over his shoulder as they walked off, “At least a few of the surprises will be done by this evening.”

“I just thought about letting Beth and her group know we won’t be going with them. I had almost forgot,” Jim told the rest.

“You can do so on the way to finding a tailor,” Ari said. “Come on and help clean up first though.”

“Alright.”

*

“Donner’s Dapper Menswear,” Ari read the sign. The shop was on the waterfront near an inn and bakery. Ari liked the location. “Let’s give this one a shot.”

“Ok,” Jim agreed.

“Cheer up Jim. This is only the third one,” Eloise said.

“We want you to look good,” Remi added.

“You three are getting way too much enjoyment out of this,” Jim replied. The trio of women laughed.

*

“I think I’m going to need more storage soon,” Jim mused as the group returned to the wagons late in the afternoon. The foursome had stopped by the docks where Jim bought a 1000 pounds of fish for 50 silvers. The women had also gotten him to spend 10 gold on more clothing including two sets of higher quality elven shirts and pants. This had included some winter clothing for himself and Ariana including coats, hats, and gloves. Another gold had been spent buying food including milk, eggs, butter, various cheeses, and more bison meat. The bison and vegetables were slightly more expensive here at the coast.

“You probably could have waited to buy the vegetables and bison until we got further inland,” Eloise said.

“Maybe, but I can also sell them in half bushels instead of full bushels and double my income if they are in short supply where we are going.”

“That’s true,” Eloise agreed.

“Why not get Kyra to enchant the drawers and shelves in your wagon?” Remi asked.

“You did say you wanted that done,” Ari pointed out. Her and Jim were walking with their arms looped together.

“True,” Jim agreed. “The rear chest would be a good thing to enchant and use to store a lot of the larger or more smelly goods.”

“Jim, storage enchantments block the smell just as they do deterioration,” Ari pointed out.

“I know. Still, sometimes I can imagine the smell.”

“You have an active imagination,” Ari replied.

“Sometimes.”

“Ah, my new favorite alchemist has returned,” an elderly feminine voice announced. Waiting at Jim’s wagon was Madam Herring and her two large guards with Rhett and Leo.

“Ah. Madam Herring, it is a pleasure to see you again,” Jim greeted the older woman.

“Madam,” Ari, Eloise, and Remi chorused in greeting which made the woman smile.

“Ladies and Mr Merchant,” Madam Herring returned the greeting. “I have heard of a most interesting new candy and wanted to see if I could purchase some.”

“Would you like to try one?” Jim asked.

“I would love to,” the older woman answered. Jim gave her one of the dandelion drops and Ariana explained how they worked. “Hmm. That is good.”

“Would you like to buy any?” Jim asked.

“Of course. How many do you have?”

“1000,” Jim answered. “They are a copper a piece.”

“I will take 100 then,” Madam Herring replied giving Jim a silver. Jim handed the smaller guard 5 small tins filled with the candy at her direction. The containers disappeared into his inventory.

“Thank you for your business once more.”

“It is a pleasure dear boy. Is there no way that I can convince you two to stay in the city? I will buy a building that suits your needs if I don’t have one already in any district that you would like. I would then be glad to rent or sell it to you at a reasonable price.”

“Thank you, but I’m afraid the answer is still no. We are set on traveling for a while before we settle down,” Jim replied. “Though, I will keep your offer in mind if it is open ended.”

“It is,” the elder woman said after a moment’s thought. “Come boys, take me home.”

“Goodbye,” Ariana told the woman who nodded in return before being escorted away.

“Well, I’m glad we are leaving,” Remi told them. “Coming to the attention of the rich and powerful has not been good for us so far.”

“Indeed,” Jim agreed.

*

“Here lad,” Abel said as he led Kyra to the rest of the group.

“Is it surprise time?” Jim asked.

“Aye. Feast your eyes on this armor and daggers,” Abel answered as he and Kyra set the eight weapons and 3 sets of armor on the table the others were sitting around.

{Enchanted Red Steel Leather Armor Level 7 Value 10 Gold True Worth 3 Gold}

{Flame Enchanted Sea Drake Dagger Level 5 Value 5 Gold True Worth 1 Gold}

“Those are impressive,” Leo said.

“And the daggers are sharper than steel,” Rhett added in appreciation.

“Yeah, they are,” Jim agreed. “I’ll try to sell the armor tomorrow. Everybody takes a dagger though. I want everyone armed as well as possible.”

“Are you sure?” Ariana asked.

“I’m sure. Though, I may sell the one I take since I’m not much of a fighter.”

“You don’t have to be a fighter to plunge a dagger into someone that gets too close,” Leo replied.

“True.”

“Are we leaving soon?” Abel asked.

“I would like to leave in another two days or less depending on Kyra.”

“Depending on me?” the enchanter asked. Jim explained what he wanted done. “I can do that, and it won’t take more than a half day.”

“Really?”

“Really. I’ve been doing so to our wagon in the evenings,” Kyra replied.

“You wouldn’t mind losing her for tomorrow?” Jim asked Abel.

“I’ll take tomorrow off and rest my old bones while she does the enchanting for you.”

“That works for me,” Kyra agreed. “What are we doing for supper though? I’m starving!”

Chapter 88

“I can’t believe you got 15 gold from each of those adventurers for a set of the red steel armor,” Rhett told Jim as the three adventurers walked off.

“They wanted to match and had the coin,” Jim replied with a shrug.

“Don’t forget the 5 gold for each of the enchanted steel swords,” Leo added with a shake of his head. “And Jim is 60 gold richer in just a few minutes.”

“We told you those fancier clothes would work,” Eloise said with a grin.

“Too bad you didn’t sell one of the enchanted grills or coffee pots,” Remi taunted. “That would have really been something.”

“Blast! I knew I forgot to try and push something.”

“Win some, lose some,” Ari called out from the wagon. She was bouncing ideas back and forth with the enchanter while Kyra worked on the wagon’s storage. “Abel?”

“Aye lass?”

“Will you come here and give us your opinion on this idea?”

“Aye. Be there in a moment,” the smith agreed as he stood.

“What idea?” Jim asked.

“You’ll see if it works,” Ari answered as Abel climbed onto the wagon’s porch.

“Can I get a hint?”

“Think what I do, what Kyra does, and the enchanted waterskin.”

“That’s…” Jim trailed off as the guards laughed. He stepped to the porch and looked up. “An enchanted flask the refills health potion?”

“How did you guess that?” Ari asked.

“Can Jim read minds?” Kyra asked.

“Nay lass, he can’t.”

“You had said think about what you both do and the waterskin,” Jim answered, then shrugged. “It made sense to me.”

“I would think such a flask is possible with the right materials,” Abel said.

“By right you mean high end or expensive,” Jim concluded. Abel nodded in agreement. “Too bad we’ve already used the drake hearts.”

“We’ll get more or something similar somehow,” Ari said.

“You seem so sure of that,” Kyra said.

“We can always buy them,” Jim replied.

“Aye. That be the safest way.”

“No wonder you are so sure,” Kyra told Ariana. “He’ll buy you anything.”

“Not quite,” Ari protested.

“I’ll buy whatever we need,” Jim replied. “I’m going to clean up my wares and play with the wolves a little. Today has been profitable enough.”

“I’ll join you in a little while,” Ari told Jim.

“I think I’ll take a nap,” Abel informed them.

“And I guess I’ll keep enchanting these shelves and drawers,” Kyra announced.

*

Kyra had finished the inside of the wagon and Jim was putting their food where he wanted it along with the more valuable items when Eloise told him he had a visitor. Jim finished and looked out the wagon.

“Mrs. Williamson, it is a pleasure to see you again. How may I help you?”

“It’s nice seeing you again as well, Jim. I have heard you have these new candies. I wanted to see what they are.”

“Just a moment and I’ll show you,” Jim replied as he exited the wagon and sat on the porch. He handed the wholesaler one of the dandelion drops.

“This is tasty. I’ve heard it has health benefits too.”

“You are well informed,” Ari said as she joined them.

“Word gets around dear,” Wilma replied. Ari explained the health benefits and how the candy works if a person is wounded or sick. “I’ll buy all you have depending on price, which I also heard is fairly cheap.”

“They are a copper a piece and I’ll sell you 500 of them. I need to keep some for myself to sell.”

“You have the alchemist that makes them and can get more at any time.”

“I don’t want to make just candy, Ari interjected. “And I won’t do so.”

“I agree with that,” Jim said.

“Fair enough. I’ll take the 500 for 5 silvers.”

“Alright,” Jim agreed. They exchanged items and coin.

“Do you have any other items you think I might be interested in?”

“Fountain pens made from aluminum, copper, nickel, tin, and steel.”

“What are your prices?”

“A silver for the copper and tin pens, 50 coppers for the nickel and aluminum ones, and 20 silvers for the steel pens which are engraved,” Jim answered. He showed her one of each of the pens.

“How many do you have?”

“A hundred of each except the steel pens. I have 50 of those.”

“I’ll take them all if you do 5 silvers for the steel pens.”

“I also have 20 enchanted coffee pots,” Jim added showing her one of them.

“And what are these enchanted to do?”

“Heat and stay warm,” Jim answered.

“That is the sort of thing someone else should have done years ago,” Wilma sighed. “How much for those?”

“A gold each,” Jim replied. He pulled one of his fishing hooks out. “I also have 200 of these I’ll sell you for a silver each.”

“That would be 35 gold total,” Wilma said. “What about your notebooks? Do you need more parchment for them?”

“Perhaps. How much do you have?”

“10000 sheets with me.”

“A copper a sheet?” Jim asked. Wilma nodded in agreement. She gestured to one of her guards. He gave Jim a sheet of parchment. It was the same quality he had been buying.

“Is all of it the same quality?”

“It is.”

“The parchment and 25 gold for the pens, hooks, and coffee pots,” Jim said.

“Make it 20 gold and I will agree to that deal as long as you do not sell the same items for less or the same price when in Diamond Shoals.”

“We are leaving soon,” Jim informed the wholesaler. “And you are getting all of my stock except 5 pots of those items. I’ll take that price though.”

“Then we have a deal,” Wilma agreed. They exchanged items and coin. She gestured to her guards, and they prepared to leave. “It was a pleasure doing business with you again Jim. Be sure to see me the next time you are in the Shoals.”

“Thank you, Mrs. Williamson. I’ll stop by the next time we are here,” Jim assured the older woman. She left.

“Are we still leaving tomorrow?” Ari asked.

“Yeah, I think so.”

“Good.”

“Can we have steak tonight?” Leo asked with a huge grin on his face. Kyra and the other guards perked up at that question.

“Yeah, today is worthy of steak,” Jim answered. He checked his notices. He had leveled once more as had Appraise and Bartering. He had 10 points to distribute. He put 3 in Intelligence and Luck. Jim then put 2 in Charisma and Wisdom.

{

Jim Merchant

Level: 7

Class: Merchant

Health: 170

Stamina: 170

Strength(6)

Endurance(6)

Dexterity(7)

Charisma(17)

Intelligence(15)

Wisdom(12)

Luck(15)

Skills: Appraise(2)

Bartering(7)

Harvesting(2)

Invention(4)

Strategy(1)

Tactics(1)

Gold:110

Silver:47

Copper:32

}

Chapter 89

“East bound and down, loaded up and truckin’,” Jim sings as the wagons slowly headed through Diamond Shoals. They had to pass the docks to exit out of the northern gate and the crowds were thick this morning. Ariana stared at him from the other porch seat. “We gonna do what they say can’t be done.”

“Jim, what are you singing?”

“Just a song from earth.”

“Ok. What is trucking?”

“Trucking is using a big vehicle known as a truck to haul goods from one place to another.”

“Oh. What is a vehicle?”

“On earth it is a self-pulling wagon of sorts.”

“So, on Stormgion, this wagon is a vehicle?”

“Yep.”

“Good to know,” Ari replied.

Jim picked up his song, “We’ve got a long way to go, and a short time to get there. I’m east bound…”

“Jim?”

“Yes Ari?”

“We’re not east bound. We’re heading north right now.”

“Close enough.”

“One more thing.”

“Yeah?”

“We’re not on a time limit either.”

“I know.”

“And you’re not much of a singer either,” Ari said with a grin on her face. Jim turned to face her.

“I know,” he replied with a grin of his own. “I’ll stop.”

“Thank you.”

“I’m surprised the wolves didn’t start howling,” Jim joked.

“Me too,” Ari laughed.

“Hey!”

“You said it.”

“True.”

“Mr Merchant!” a young voice called from nearby. Jim and Ariana turned in the direction the voice came from. A young boy was waving at them. Jim stopped the wagon.

“What is it?”

“Captain Stonefish would like to see you.”

“Who?” Ari asked.

“One of the fishermen I bought from,” Jim answered. “What does he want?”

“We caught something today that he thinks you will be very interested in,” the boy answered. “I was told not to say.”

“I don’t like it,” Rhett said as he rode up.

“You’re a guard. You’re not supposed to like it,” Ariana told him with a smile.

“True,” Rhett agreed. He faced the boy. “Where is this captain at?”

“At the fishermen’s pier,” the boy answered. “It’s a block up the street.”

“Let’s see what he has,” Jim told the others. “Come on kid. You can ride with us.”

“Ok!” the boy answered before scrambling up onto the wagon. Ari moved into the wagon’s interior so the boy could sit on the porch. He saw Ariana get up and move. “I can walk. You shouldn’t give your seat up to me, miss.”

“It’s fine,” Ari replied and smiled at the boy. He blushed. “There’s no need to walk.”

“Alright Al. Stop slacking. You too, Peggy!” Jim called to the mules before snapping the reins.

“You named your animals after people?” the boy asked.

“Yep. I think the names suit them well.”

*

“Ah, Mr Merchant. I have something I think you’ll want to purchase.”

“Captain Stonefish,” Jim greeted the dwarf as he parked the wagon. Mal, the boy, jumped down and went to Tomas’ side. “What might you have that I want?”

“1200 or so pounds of fish.”

“The 1000 pounds I bought yesterday is plenty.”

“Trust me lad. You’ll want to take a look.”

“Alright. Show me what you have,” Jim replied as he hopped down. He looked up at Ari. “Want to come?”

“Sure,” she answered as she shut the wagon and keyed the lock. Kyra had made the necessary change when she enchanted the storage spaces. Jim helped her down, which earned him a smile. “Thank you.”

“You’re welcome,” Jim replied with a smile of his own.

“Ma’am,” Tomas greeted Ariana with a nod.

“Captain,” Ari returned the greeting.

“What’s going on?” Leo asked as he joined them.

“The good captain says he has something Jim will want to buy,” Rhett told his kin.

“And what might that be?” Abel asked as he walked up to the others.

“Something special,” Tomas answered.

“Well, let’s see it,” Jim said.

“Follow me,” Tomas replied. He led them down the pier to his fishing boat. Hanging from a winch was a shark. The head was shaped like a double-bladed axe instead of a hammer like the earth hammerhead shark. The mouth was also larger and reminded Jim of a great white. “This is an axehead shark. They are one of the nastiest predators in this part of the sea.”

{Axehead Shark Level 10 Value 10 Gold True Worth 5 Gold}

“How long is that thing and how much does it weigh?” Leo asked.

“This one is 12 feet and right at 1400 pounds,” Tomas answered. “It’s a midsize beast.”

“They get bigger?” Ari asked.

“Aye,” Mal answered. “Papa says he has seen one 20 feet before.”

“That I have my boy.”

“What makes them special?” Ari asked.

“The skin is prized for wrapping weapon handles and making sheathes,” Abel answered. Tomas nodded in agreement.

“The meat is also highly valued as are some of the organs,” the captain replied. “The fins in particular are highly sought after to make poisons or soup.”

“Poison?” Jim asked.

“They are poisonous when ingested,” Ari said. “None of the books I’ve read say what causes it though.”

“The teeth make excellent arrowheads too,” Abel added.

“And the meat makes an excellent meal,” Tomas said.

“This would need to go to a butcher if I bought it,” Jim said.

“Not true. My lads know how to carve a shark up to get the most out of it,” Tomas replied.

“How much for that service and the shark?” Jim asked.

“Twenty gold will do.”

“Ha. It’s a level 10 shark and only worth 5 gold at the most.”

“And how do you know that?”

“A merchant skill.”

“Must be similar to my skill,” Tomas mused. “12 gold”

“Seven,” Jim countered. “And I’ll let you keep 200 pounds of the meat.”

“That is a deal I will accept,” Tomas replied. “Give us an hour and you’ll be all set.”

*

Jim, Ariana, and Abel looked over Jim’s new acquisitions.

{Axehead Shark Steak Value 5 Silvers True Worth 1 Silver}

{Axehead Shark Meat Value 1 Silver True Worth 50 Coppers}

{Axehead Shark Fin Value 50 Silvers True Worth 20 Silvers}

{Axehead Shark Teeth Value 1 Silver True Worth 40 Coppers}

{Axehead Shark Skin Value 1 Gold True Worth 60 Silvers}

{Axehead Shark Eyes Value 1 Silver True Worth 50 Coppers)

{Axehead Shark Heart Value 1 Gold True Worth 50 Silvers}

He had 500 pounds of meat, 20 steaks, 2 eyes, the huge skin, the heart, 5 fins, and 100 teeth. He had let Tomas and his crew keep the bones in addition to the meat. Jim muttered, “Maybe I should have agreed to pay more,” after telling them the values.

“Perhaps,” Ariana agreed.

“You are lucky,” Abel said as Jim put the parts in the bottom storage chest of his wagon and locked it.

“Aye,” Jim agreed with a smile thinking about his level 15 luck.

“The heart should make a good potion. That said, I don’t know what they are used for. I’ll have to do some research. One of the books we have should have something about the sharks in it.”

“We’ll make some good arrow shafts out of metal for the teeth and use the skin to wrap the handles of some good weapons,” Abel informed Jim. “That is a lot of skin. Maybe I could use it for some light armor too. I’ll have to test it.”

“Let’s get going!” Eloise called out. “You can talk about that stuff later.”

“Alright. I agree with that,” Ari replied.

“Me too,” Jim agreed.

Chapter 90

It had taken a few days due to the troop resuming their work in the morning and travel in the afternoon schedule, but they were a few hours from Pantego, which was the closest village to Diamond Shoals along the coast. This allowed Abel and Kyra to make more hooks and for Ariana to make more potions as well as letting the wolves hunt. Leo called a stop and rode the pony back to the dwarves’ wagon and then back up to Jim’s after a few minutes. The others joined them.

“What’s going on Leo?” Ari asked before Jim could.

“We have a problem up ahead.”

“What kind?” Jim asked.

“Fire ants.”

“You guys have those here?” Jim asked.

“You know what fire ants are?” Remi asked Jim.

“Aggressive invasive ants that can kill a person or animal if they bite them enough.”

“No. That’s not what fire ants are,” Eloise replied.

“It’s not?”

“Nope.”

“Fire ants are 2-3 feet long mutated ants that breathe fire,” Abel informed Jim.

“You’re kidding?”

“Afraid not lad.”

“Can we go around their mound?” Kyra asked.

“No,” Leo answered. “It’s too close to the trail.”

“We won’t be able to fight the ants then,” Rhett said.

“Is there anything we can do?” Jim asked. “Other than turning around and trying to find another trail that is?”

“Using the wolves as a distraction is a possibility,” Rhett offered.

“No, you will not use my baby like that!” Remi said heatedly. Eloise, Ariana, and Jim agreed with her.

“It was just a thought,” Rhett replied. “Sorry.”

“Trying to find a way around would be the best bet,” Abel said in an attempt to get the conversation back on track.

“Perhaps not,” Ari said.

“What do you mean lass?”

“Fire ants are ants even if they are monsters. Jim has peppermint and I have some marigolds. Those plants will repel ants.”

“They do?” Jim asked.

“Yes. I could make a potion or perhaps a powder that we can use against them.”

“And how do you intend to get this potion or powder onto the ants and mound?” Remi asked.

“I don’t,” Ari answered. “We douse ourselves with the potion or powder as well as the wagons, ponies, and mules. That should let us get by them.”

“The wind is blowing out of the south too,” Eloise observed. “That should help.”

“Let’s give it a go,” Jim ordered. He turned to face Ari. “What do you need us to do to help?”

“I’ll let you know,” Ari answered as she stood up and went into the wagon.

“Perhaps we could use some of your fabric to make torches or set some small fires with the potion and let the smoke blow over the mound,” Rhett added.

“Let’s give that a try too,” Jim agreed.

*

“I’m done,” Ari informed the others midafternoon. She handed them several flasks.

The group spent several minutes pouring the potion on the wagons, ponies, mules, and each other. Rhett and Leo lit torches made from a bolt of fabric that had been doused in the lantern oil they had and poured some of the potion on them. The smoke turned blue and gave off a sweet smell.

“Should we breathe the smoke?” Leo asked.

“It’s smoke, so no,” Ari answered with a grin. “The potion won’t hurt us.”

“We’re dwarves, smoke doesn’t affect us as much as it does other races,” Abel pointed out. “We have a tolerance due to centuries of working around forges and being in mines.”

“Rhett, do you think you could throw one of the torches near the mound?” Jim asked.

“Aye. Why?”

“Let’s see how it affects them.”

“Alright,” the dwarf agreed. He ran forward and threw the torch. The wind helped carry it, so it landed beside the mound. Rhett ran back to the others as a few ants boiled out of the mound and went after the torch.

“Just like the fire ants on earth,” Jim mused. The red and black ant closest to the torch turned and retreated to the mound immediately after getting a face full of smoke from the torch. The others retreated as well.

“It works!” Kyra exclaimed.

“Aye,” Abel agreed. “Good going lass. You’ve saved us from a bit of trouble.”

“Let’s get going and toss more torches as we go,” Eloise suggested.

“What about the brush we gathered up for fires?” Leo asked.

“Pour potion on it and light them up too,” Remi answered. “It’s sand here, so it’s not like they could become a wildfire.”

The group waited half an hour for the brush fires to blow smoke over the ants’ territory. The fire ants either retreated into the mound or ran onto the beach and towards the water.

“I’ll ride ahead first,” Leo told the others.

“We’ll go as quickly as we can once you are through,” Eloise told her husband.

“Let’s drop the torches behind us,” Jim ordered.

“Why?” Kyra asked.

“To keep the ants from following,” Rhett answered.

Jim nodded in agreement. “Yep. And it should also keep them from moving closer to Pantego.”

“Makes sense,” Kyra agreed before running back to the dwarves’ wagon. The others followed her except for Leo and Rhett. Leo remounted the pony he had been riding while Rhett climbed up and sat in the passenger seat beside Jim. Ari went inside and shut the wagon door.

“I’ll wave my torch from side to side,” Leo told Jim and Rhett.

“We have torches too,” Jim replied.

“And we are all covered in the potion,” Rhett added. “We should be fine.”

“Let’s hope so,” Jim said. “Leo?”

“Yes Jim?”

“If it doesn’t seem to work, keep riding. Don’t try to come back.”

“Alright,” the guard agreed. He turned the pony and started riding towards the mound. The pony shied away from the mound and moved closer to the beach. He made it past and out of the ants’ territory without incident a few minutes later. He dismounted and started two fires on either side of the trail.

“Here goes nothing,” Jim told Rhett. He got the mules moving easier than he thought he would have and chalked it up to the blood bond. Abel had the other wagon moving right behind them. The dwarves’ wagon had just cleared the mound when the ants erupted out of it despite the potion and smoke. “The vibrations must have been too much for them.”

“Get the mules moving!” Rhett yelled. Jim whipped the reins and the mules responded.

“Some of them are turning!” Leo shouted. Jim barely heard him over the wind and mules. A moment later and Jim’s wagon passed the mounted guard. Jim started to slow the wagon.

“Don’t! Keep going!” Rhett ordered. “Leo will help the others if needed.”

“Ok,” Jim replied.

“Alright. Stop now,” Rhett instructed 500 feet later. Jim complied and Rhett jumped from the wagon. He ran around it to get a look. Ari opened the door.

“Jim, what’s going on?”

“Are you ok?” Jim asked Ariana. She nodded yes. “Rhett has jumped down and is checking on the others.”

“Ok,” Ariana replied. Jim stood and hugged her. Leo rode up.

“Everybody is fine. The ants turned when they got to the two fires I started past the mound. Let’s move on though.”

“That’s good news,” Jim and Ari chorused.

“Aye.” Now, stop holding each other and let’s get going.”

Chapter 91

“It’s getting dark,” Ariana observed.

“Do you mean the sun going down or the clouds building from the east?” Jim asked.

“The clouds. A storm is coming and since the gate is shut, we’ll be trapped out here tonight.”

“I think we’ll be fine. The wagons are enchanted to withstand some punishment and I know the mules, wolves, and ponies will be ok. Animals are smart like that.”

“That’s true. Speaking of enchantment, let’s see how the others are doing and if the fire ants did any damage to their wagon.”

“Alright. Will you set the rear brake?”

“Already done.”

“Thanks. And I’ll hold you tonight if you want. Kayja, Dusk, let’s go,” Jim told Ari and the wolves. Ari smiled and nodded before they exited the wagon and Jim pulled the door shut locking it behind them.

“You’ll hold me anyway,” Ari replied with a smile.

“That’s very true,” Jim agreed. He loved how easy the enchantments worked in comparison to keys and traditional locks. Honestly, he loved how enchantments worked vs technology in general. It was so much easier.

“Did the ants do any damage to your wagon?” Ari asked the dwarves as they approached the others.

“Nah lass. The enchantments held up against the bites and fire quite well,” Abel answered. He showed her and Jim the wagon.

“I’m glad the enchantments worked so well,” Ari said.

“Me too,” Kyra agreed.

“Same,” Jim replied.

“Aye. The enchantments worked better than I thought they would. So did that potion,” Abel said as they rejoined the guards.

“I suppose the guards won’t open the gate for us?” Remi asked.

“I haven’t checked,” Jim admitted.

“I did,” Leo replied. “They won’t.”

“Well, I’m glad everyone is ok,” Jim said. “Let’s tend to the ponies, wolves, and mules, cook some supper, and settle in the night before that storm hits,” Jim continued with a nod at the gathering clouds.

“Works for us. You and Ari start supper and we’ll tend to the animals,” Elise replied looking at her husband. She grinned. “We’ll also tend to the ponies, wolves, and mules.”

“Hey!” Leo objected to laughter from the others.

*

“I’m Devonte Skinner, Pantego’s headman. Who might you lot be?” a man asked as he walked up to the wagon after the guards let them in the next morning.

“I’m Jim Merchant, a traveling trader. This is Ariana, my companion and alchemist. On the pony is Rhett, one of our guards. In the other wagon are Remi, Eloise, and Leo, who are our other guards. Also in the wagon is Abel, our smith and his apprentice, Kyra. She is also an enchanter.”

“You have everything covered it seems,” Devonte replied.

“It’s easier that way,” Jim said. “Are there any fees for trading in the village?”

“No. We’re too small for that. Honestly, we’ll be glad to just have a trader visit.”

“Is it rare for a merchant to do so?” Ariana asked.

“Rare? No. Infrequent? Yes.”

“Oh.”

“You wouldn’t happen to have any toys, would you?” Devonte asked.

“No. I’ve never thought about them,” Jim admitted.

“The wee ones will be upset.”

“We do have some herbal candy though.”

“Herbal candy?” Devonte asked. Jim nodded yes. “Like honey drops?”

“Something like that,” Ari answered. “I made these from dandelion and a few other healthy ingredients.”

“Interesting.”

“Would you like to try one?” Jim asked. “I’ll give away some samples.”

“Perhaps later. What else do you have?”

“Potions, some weapons and armor, food, herbs, fabric, salves, grills to cook on, enchanted coffee pots, spices, fountain pens, and notebooks,” Jim answered.

“Enchanted coffee pots?”

“Aye.”

“What are fountain pens, notebooks, and grills?”

“I’ll be glad to show you once we get settled,” Jim answered. “Speaking of settling, where can we set up?”

“Use the square. Follow me,” Devonte instructed. He turned and started walking.

“Are we following him?” Rhett asked.

“Yep.”

*

Pantego was a fishing village and almost an exact copy of Catfish Landing in terms of buildings and layout. The only real difference was that Pantego was on the bay instead of river. It took a short while to park and unhitch the wagons. The village didn’t have a stable or livery for visitors, so Devonte had instructed them to hobble their animals in an empty lot off the village square that the grass had started to overgrow. Several villagers watched as the troop went about their business.

“Alright. What are these items you said you would show me?” Devonte asked when Jim sat out his table and chair.

“Ok,” Jim agreed. He pulled out an enchanted grill and showed the village headman how it worked. “I also have some non-enchanted versions that cost less.”

“Looks like it would fry a fish well.”

“Grill would be the preferred term.”

“You would grill a fish on a grill?”

“Exactly.”

“Doesn’t make sense,” Devonte replied. Jim shrugged. “What’s next?”

“This is a fountain pen and notebook,” Jim answered pulling the items from his inventory. He showed how they worked. “The pens are made from aluminum, copper, nickel, or tin.”

“I could use those. How much are they?”

“Notebooks are a silver. The pens are a silver for the copper and tin versions. The nickel and aluminum pens are 50 coppers.”

“They are sort of expensive.”

“These are a lot cheaper than the original versions were,” Jim replied. “Those pens were over 20 silvers.”

“Wow!”

“Yep.”

“You mentioned hooks as well.”

“I did,” Jim replied. He pulled out two barbed hooks. “This one,” Jim said holding up one of the hooks is made from plain steel. He held up the red one he pulled out of inventory. “This one is made from blood steel. Both cost 1 silvers each.”

“Your smith makes these?” Devonte asked taking both hooks to examine.

“Yep.”

“Why so expensive?”

“They should last longer than what you’ve been using, and these are made larger than what I’ve seen in Diamond Shoals or in the freshwater fishing villages like Swift River or Catfish Landing,” Jim answered.

“Hmmm. I don’t know.”

“We’ll stay today and tomorrow leave after lunch on the third day. If you buy hooks and they bend or break, I’ll replace them or give you or anyone else their money back,” Jim replied. He noticed that several other villagers had approached while Devonte was talking with him. “I have several hundred pounds of axehead shark meat, and I’ll use some of it to show you how the grills work too.”

“That I’ll look forward to,” Devonte told Jim with a grin. The other villagers looked excited too. Jim raised an eyebrow in question. “Axehead shark is a rare treat. Where did you get it?”

“Diamond Shoals just before we left.”

“Jim don’t forget the wolves,” Ari reminded him.

“Wolves?” a villager asked in alarm.

“Aki wolves. We have two as pets, hunters, and guardians. Our guards have two as well,” Ari answered.

“You keep them as pets?”

“They are part of the family at this point,” Jim replied to the woman. “They are also blood bound, so won’t be a danger to others unless given a reason.”

“A reason?” Devonte asked.

“Yeah. Trying to break into the wagons, stealing, or attacking us,” Jim answered.

“That’s fair. I’ll take one of the nickel pens, a notebook, and 5 of each hook if you throw in the ink for the pen,” Devonte told Jim.

Jim smiled. “We have a deal.”

“What did you have in the way of healing supplies? The guards could use some more.”

“Let me show you,” Jim replied.

Chapter 92

Jim leaned down and shook Devonte’s hand as the rest of the group mounted up to leave Pantego. The village had been profitable. Jim sold 20 bolts of fabric for 4 gold, 100 hooks for a gold, the five shark fins for 2 gold, 20 health potions and all the healing salve for 4 gold five pounds of salt for 5 gold, 200 pounds of the shark meat for 2 gold, and 10 nickel pens and 10 notebooks for 15 silvers.

Devonte asked, “Are you sure this alchemical brew will work on the fire ants?”

“Yes.”

“We’ll have to send word to the capital, so they’ll send a mage led unit to deal with the mound.”

“Why not post something for adventurers?” Jim asked.

“I don’t trust them and don’t want to pay as much as any worth their salt would demand in compensation.”

“Ah. Makes sense.”

Devonte grinned. “Besides, if the ants hamper trade and travel enough, the king will be forced to deal with them, and it won’t cost us a thing.”

“Are you sure you’re not a merchant? That is looking for a better deal.”

“Ha. I’ve picked up a thing or two over the years,” Devonte replied. He sobered. “Either way, we’ll keep our eyes out for them. You’re heading to Little Headwater next?”

“Yeah.”

“And then onto Bison Creek and Southern Forest?”

“That’s the plan.”

“Watch out for the MOUS’s a day’s ride before Little Headwater.”

“MOUS’s?” Jim asked. Devonte nodded and Jim looked back and forth between him and Ariana. “What are they?”

“Moles of unusual size,” Rhett answered as he walked up.

“How unusual are we talking?” Jim asked.

“About the size of their ponies,” Devonte answered with a shrug and gestured at Rhett.

“Really?” Ari asked.

“Aye,” Rhett answered. “I hate fighting them too,” he muttered as he walked over to the saddled pony.

“How dangerous are they?”

“Very,” Devonte answered. “Like most moles, MOUS’s have poor eyesight, but have keen senses of hearing and touch. Their claws can penetrate steel too.”

“Well, that is just lovely.”

“I’m going to start working on a new concoction,” Ari informed Jim. “Lavender, rosemary, and marigold will repel moles among other plants. Maybe a strong enough potion of them will do the same for the MOUS’s.”

*

The group had traveled for two days at their half day pace when they ran across a surprise in the form of a MOUS. The aki wolves were fanned out around the wagons and chasing small game like rabbits while Eloise was riding the spare pony and leading the troop at the time. The pony had just started to act shy and buck a little when the MOUS erupted out of the ground squealing in front of her. The wolves surged forward toward the monster while Eloise fought to keep her seat. Jim stopped Al and Peggy by engaging the brake and pulling on the reins. He Appraised the MOUS.

{Mole Of Unusual Size Level 14}

Remi, Rhett, and Leo ran forward to assist their kin. The wolves took turns darting in and biting the MOUS. Eloise regained control of the pony and rode back to Jim’s wagon. “Stop! Let the wolves fight it.” She ordered her kin. Rhett watched the fight and squeezed his hammer’s handle while Remi and Leo checked on Eloise.

“Should we use this?” Ariana asked the guards while holding out a potion bottle to them. Jim Appraised the bottle.

{Potion of Rodent Repellent Value 1 Gold True Worth 20 Silvers}

“What is that?” Remi asked looking from Eloise to Ariana.

“Rodent repellent,” the alchemist answered. “It should drive the MOUS away.”

“Let’s see if the wolves can take it down first,” Leo suggested as Rex dashed in and took a bite of the MOUS’ left front paw.

“How many of those potions do you have?” Jim asked.

The MOUS spun trying to rake the wolf with its claws. Kayja and May attacked taking bites out of the monster’s front legs. The MOUS spun in place like a top trying to catch the female wolves. It was too slow as the wolves ran away. Dusk attacked and seized the MOUS’ throat after it stopped spinning. Kayja and May attacked the front legs once more as Rex attacked and clamped down on the MOUS’ nose.

“Ten at the moment,” Ari answered. Jim nodded his head.

“They’re smothering it,” Rhett observed as he leaned on his war hammer.

“And their pack tactics are improving,” Eloise added.

“We probably should have gotten more,” Remi said.

“Clarence didn’t act like he would have sold us more,” Leo replied.

“Eh, true.”

“Look at that,” Jim murmured. “They’ve leveled twice between this fight and the hunting they have been doing.”

“What’s that?” Ari asked as the others turned to face him.

“All four wolves have all just reached level 9,” Jim answered as the wolves left the dead MOUS in the middle of the trail.

“We need those claws,” Able said as he and Kyra joined them. “They will make excellent daggers.”

“The fur would make good clothing too,” Kyra added.

“Who wants to skin it?” Leo asked.

“Why don’t I just loot the thing?” Jim asked. He turned from the dwarves and looked down at the wolves. “You four did good! And now you need a bath.”

“Yeah. Their muzzles are just a little bloody,” Eloise agreed.

“I’ll loot the MOUS if you guys wash the wolves.”

“What about the hole in the ground?” Ari asked.

“Leo and I will cut down a small tree and make some rough planks to throw across it,” Rhett answered.

“Eloise and I will guard Jim while he loots the MOUS,” Remi quickly added.

“You’re wanting me and Ari to wash the wolves off, aren’t you?” Kyra asked.

“Maybe.”

“Aye.”

“Perhaps.”

“You got it.”

“This won’t take long. I’ll wash Kayja when I’m done,” Jim replied. He jumped down and went to the MOUS. It was almost the size of Peggy instead of the pony. Jim shook his head in wonder. “Geez, this thing is huge.”

“Aye,” Remi agreed as Jim looted the monster.

{MOUS Claw x4 Value 2 Gold True Worth 1 Gold}

{MOUS Hide Value 20 Gold True Worth 5 Gold}

“Great balls of fire!”

“What?”

“The hide and claws are worth a lot,” Jim answered. “Come on. Let’s go clean the puppies.”

“Jim, the wolves aren’t pups,” Eloise replied.

“Aren’t they playful and obedient?” Jim asked as they returned to the wagons.

“Yeah.”

“Aren’t they loving?”

“Yeah.”

“Then they’re puppies.”

“We may need to see if Ariana can make a potion or two for you.”

“Why?”

“Sometimes you’re nuts.”

“There is method to my madness,” Jim said with a grin.

“So, you say,” Eloise replied with a grin of her own. Remi laughed.

*

Over the next five days, the wolves fought four more level 14 MOUS’s. Between the fighting and hunting they were doing, the wolves reached level 12. The dwarves had been a bit piqued that the wolves were doing all the work until Abel pointed out that they weren’t having to risk their health and were getting paid well for doing nothing. The group arrived at Little Headwater the morning of the sixth day.

Chapter 93

“You would think with a name like Little Headwater, the village would be located in the mountains or at least further inland where a river starts,” Jim mused as he looked up at the wall. It was larger and better built than Pantego’s. The wall circled the village which circled a natural bay. Fields surrounded the village’s western side and a forest or at least woods could be seen rising over the village on the eastern side over the walls.

“The village came by its name honestly,” Abel replied. He had decided to sit with Jim while Ariana had been gathering flowers with Kyra while Eloise and Remi kept watch over them and the wolves ran around. That was something they had been doing since leaving Diamond Shoals.

“Oh?”

“There is a small creek that starts just inside the northern wall and runs out to the bay.”

“Interesting. You’ve been here before?”

“Aye. We were last through here before we started working in Raven’s Rest. The fields surround the village to the north and east in a circle. There are gates at the compass points.”

“Even in the bay?”

“Aye. They keep the bay gate open unless there is a bad storm coming or an attack.”

“How do you think we’ll do here?”

“May not do so well as you did Pantego. Little Headwater is a lot more self-sufficient. Think of it as a small hub like Swift River crossed with Diamond Shoals. That said, you’ll probably sell the rest of the hooks, some fabric, and if you’re willing the bison meat. Ari’s stuff will sell as people always want healing supplies.”

“Figures,” Jim replied with a shrug.

“You’re not worried about making at least as much money as you did in Pantego?” Ari asked with a smile as she returned. Jim helped her up while the other three women waved and walked to the other wagon.

“Not really. We’ll make what we make and move on,” Jim answered and gave Ari a smile back.

“If the guards ever open the gates,” Ari added. Jim and Abel laughed.

“Yeah, if they do,” Jim agreed. “I want some coffee. Do either of you want any?”

“I’ll make a pot,” Ari replied while walking into the wagon. “I’m already in here and you two are out there.”

“Thanks honey.”

“She’s got you wrapped around her finger lad,” Abel told Jim with a grin on his face.

“I like to think we have each other wrapped.”

“Mayhap. Still, we are generally more easily wrapped than they are.”

“That’s true,” Jim agreed. Ariana handed Jim and Abel two cups a few minutes later. Both men took a sip and then stared at the cups and exchanged a glance. Ari smiled.

“This tastes a little different,” Abel said.

“Yeah. It’s a woodsier and nuttier flavor,” Jim replied. Ari’s smile grew larger. Jim turned and saw her smile. “What did you do to the coffee?”

“Nothing.”

“Lass, are you being honest with us? This is not the normal coffee taste.”

“I am. I’ve done nothing to the coffee. Do you like the taste?”

“Aye.”

Jim took another sip. “Yeah.”

“Good. Sell the coffee and I’ll start preparing more chicory to use instead.”

“Chicory?” Abel asked.

“It’s a flower and mostly used in health potions.”

“Fair enough lass. I am a convert to chicory.”

“Me too,” Jim agreed after another sip. Ari beamed at them and stepped back inside.

“Definitely wrapped around her little finger,” Abel whispered to Jim.

“Yep.”

*

“This town reminds me of some small towns from where I’m from,” Jim told Ariana and Abel as the wagons moved slowly down the main street and they looked around.

“In what way?” Ari asked.

“This main street to start. It goes from the west gate.”

“And it comes out at the east gate,” Abel added.

“That’s normal,” Ari replied.

“Right. But the way they chose to run the main part of the town along the waterfront instead of to the village square is something that people do where I’m from.”

“I see what you mean. Every other town and village in this part of Praha the village square is the main part of the village or town,” Abel said. “And here, they have made the waterfront the main focus.”

“Exactly.”

“I like it,” Ari said. She wrinkled her nose in disgust when a gust of wind blew off the water. “Maybe I don’t like it as much as I thought.”

Jim and Abel laughed. “Aye. That smell takes some getting used to.”

“If I was to settle someplace on the water, this is the kind of village I would do so in,” Jim told the others. “But that smell is just too much.”

“Enhanced senses are a pain at times,” Ari agreed. “Where are we going to set up at?”

“The guards said we could do so in the village square or at an empty lot by the docks.”

“The lot might be best,” Abel said. “It’s close to the main street and I can set up the forge there too. We wouldn’t be allowed to do that in the square.”

“Guess we’ll have to get used to the smell,” Ari told Jim.

“So, it seems.”

“Ha! I’m glad we dwarves don’t have that keen sense of smell,” Abel said.

“Yeah, lucky you,” Ari replied.

“Where is this lot at again?” Jim asked.

“Take a right at the intersection,” Ari instructed.

“We go a block and it’ll be on the left,” Abel added.

“Thanks.”

*

Some of the villagers watched as Abel set up his forge on the water side of the lot. The wagons were parked facing each other cutting the lot in half with a gap big enough to see the forge. This arrangement allowed Ariana to work in front of the wagons with Jim or behind them with Abel. The ponies and mules were put up in a nearby inn’s stable for 10 silvers for three days. Kyra took a room in the inn as she was not used to living in the wagon yet. Jim agreed to pay 20 coppers so the rest could use the inn’s bath.

“I’m tired already,” Jim told Ari after they finished setting up and taking care of business with the inn and walked back to the lot.

“You’re getting lazy.”

“What is that term you love to use?” Leo asked. He, Kyra, and Eloise had gone with Jim and Ariana to the inn. “Oh, I remember. Slacker!”

“Ha-ha. Very funny,” Jim replied which made the others smile and laugh. “Seriously though, driving the wagon can get tiring.”

“I’ll drive more if you like,” Ari told him as he looped his arm through hers.

“And we can take turns helping too,” Eloise offered. “We do that for our wagon already.”

“Plus, having a guard with you two couldn’t hurt,” Leo added.

“They have Dusk and Kayja,” Kyra said.

“Yeah, but this would also let us talk with others than whoever is in our particular wagon,” Leo replied.

“That makes sense,” the enchanter said. “Jim, are you going to try selling things today?”

“Yeah. I think I’ll break out a grill and make burgers. Hopefully, that will draw people in along with us being new to the village.”

“Let’s stop at that bakery up ahead and get some fresh bread then,” Ari said.

Chapter 94

“Jim, you seem a tad upset this morning,” Rhett observed while he, Leo, and Jim walked into the stable.

“The last two mornings as well,” Leo added.

“It’s the chicory,” Jim replied.

“What about it? It tastes mostly like coffee.”

“Yeah, but it doesn’t have caffeine in it.”

“Caffeine? What is that?” Rhett asked.

“It’s a substance that is part of coffee that makes a person feel focused or refreshed,” Jim answered. “In larger quantities, it can make a person feel anxiety, restless, have trouble sleeping, and headaches.”

“And not having it can do the same or make one irritable?”

“Yep.”

“Sounds like a person going through drug withdrawal to me,” Leo said.

“Exactly,” Jim replied.

“It’s a good thing Ari wants you off it then,” Rhett said with a grin on his face.

“Hush you.”

“That only works when my wife says it.”

“Yeah, yeah. Let’s get Al, Peggy, and the others to the wagons so we can leave this village.”

“That’s a good idea. People have been buying your coffee and you’ve had to watch.”

“Don’t remind me,” Jim muttered. “Forty pounds is already gone.”

“How much did you make off that?”

“Two gold, which was the cost of the coffee.”

“How much do you have left?”

“Thirty pounds.”

“That will be pure profit. Didn’t you sell all of the axehead shark meat and steaks too?

“Yeah. I’m still more than ready to leave though.”

“Is that due to several villagers having offered Kyra and Ariana places in their households or positions in the village often enough the last two days?” Rhett asked.

“They’re both young, attractive, and good at what they do. I don’t blame the villagers for offering,” Leo replied.

“I do,” Jim said.

“That is the jealous lover talking instead of the caffeine,” Leo remarked.

“Some of both,” Jim admitted.

“It’s never easy seeing another flirt with your mate,” Rhett said as he and Leo started checking the ponies. Jim started patting Al and Peggy while talking lowly to them. Rhett continued, “You just have to trust them to stand by you.”

“Too true,” Leo agreed as Jim nodded along.

*

“Are you the traveling merchant?” a man asked as Jim and Ariana finished hitching Peggy and Al to the wagon. The couple looked at the man. He looked to be an adventurer wearing mismatched armor of a red leather gambeson, black gloves, and brown leather pants stood behind them. The man wore an open face helmet that didn’t even have a nose guard.

“Yeah, I am. My name is Jim Merchant,” Jim answered. The man smiled as he heard Jim’s chosen last name. “This is my lady, Ariana.” The man’s eyebrows rose at that statement.

“I’m not a noble,” Ariana assured the adventurer. “Jim, just has some unique ways of speaking at times.”

“A pleasure to meet you both. My name is Cade Green,” Cade replied after processing what Ari said.

“How might we help you Mr Green?” Jim asked.

“I know you have sold mostly food and a few alchemical supplies while here in Little Headwater, but I was wondering if you had any storage items?”

“I do,” Jim answered. “What are you looking for? Rings or traveler’s packs?”

“I prefer rings.”

“Don’t we all?” Ari asked in amusement.

“I know I do,” Jim agreed.

“Ah. Yes, so do I,” Cade replied. Remi rode up on the extra pony.

“I thought we were leaving just as soon as you hitched your troublesome duo,” the guard said instead of a greeting. “Oh. A customer?”

“Al and Peggy are not troublesome. And yes, Jim has a customer,” Ari replied. “I’m going into the wagon and release the rear brake.”

“Are you looking for a small or large storage ring?” Jim asked the adventurer as they both watched Ariana climb up and go into the wagon. Jim looked at Cade as Ari disappeared.

“Ah. Large depending on price.”

“I have a single large ring and two small ones. The large is 50 gold and the smalls are 6 gold each.”

“Is the large ring jeweled?”

“It is.”

“Might I see it?”

“I suppose,” Jim agreed as Remi dismounted and walked to him along with Cade. Jim showed the large ring to the man.

“I’ll take it.”

“Excellent,” Jim replied as Cade started counting out gold pieces. Jim counted along with the man. Remi made a show of checking each coin to Jim’s amusement before giving them to him. Cade looked like he wanted to question her when Eloise, Leo, and Rhett joined them. Cade just stood and watched after shutting his mouth. Remi nodded to Jim before letting him give Cade the ring.

“Do your guards always check your customer’s coin?”

“They look out for me and do their jobs well,” Jim replied with a shrug. “Fifty gold is a lot for a single item in a village this small.”

“That’s true,” Cade agreed as he took the ring. He left without another word. Jim and the four guards exchanged a look and shrugged at each other.

“Guess he didn’t like you doing your job so well,” Jim said with a shrug.

“I won’t apologize for watching over my client and friend,” Remi replied.

“Thanks.”

“You’re welcome.”

“Are we ready to go?” Eloise asked.

“Not quite,” Jim answered. “How is Kyra working out?”

“She is doing well. Dad has no complaints,” Remi answered.

“And she is rapidly becoming a member of the family so to speak,” Eloise added. “Why do you ask?”

“I was thinking along the same lines and wanted your opinions since you sleep in the same place, she does most nights.”

“Like the wives said, she is fine,” Leo replied. Rhett just nodded in agreement.

“Alright. Thanks. If I was to find a place I like and settled down, you guys are ok with that, right?”

“Aye.”

“Why do you ask? I thought you were happy riding around.”

“I am. I was just double checking. Would you guys care if I go ahead and pay you for the rest of the year?”

“Nope. That would be nice actually.”

“Have you made enough to do so?” Leo asked with a grin.

“Ha. Selling that ring made me enough to pay you four,” Jim replied giving him three gold. He gave the other three guards three gold each as well.

“This is too much,” Eloise said. “You’ve already paid us for one month.”

“Consider that month and the other silver a bonus,” Jim replied. He gave Remi five gold and Eloise another three. “That is for your dad and Kyra.” Then he gave Rhett another seven gold. He trusted the dwarves to divide it equally or near enough. “Consider that an extra bonus to be divided however you want.”

“Jim, you just gave us 27 gold.”

“Yep.”

“That’s way too much.”

“If you want, help buy some food. You guys eat a lot,” Jim replied with a smile. “Otherwise, take the bonus and don’t worry about it.”

“Thank you,” the guards chorused.

“You’re welcome.”

“Are you going to pay Ari too?” Eloise asked.

“I’ll talk to her about that while we ride,” Jim answered rubbing the back of his head.

“Good. Get your butt up here and let’s go,” Ariana called from the driver’s seat. “You’re my passenger.”

“You heard her,” Remi told the others. “I’ll ride the pony for a while.”

“Jim, do you want one of us riding with you two?”

“Nah. Let us talk over money and then we’ll switch up later.”

“Fair enough,” Rhett said as the others walked to their wagon. He followed them while Remi mounted the pony.

“So, what is this about money?” Ari asked Jim as he sat in the righthand seat.

“Did you see me pay the others?”

“No.”

“I paid them for the year and gave a bonus.”

“That was nice of you. What made you want to pay them for the rest of the year now?”

“I have the coin,” Jim answered. “And I still have over 150 gold left.”

“You’ve made a lot in a short time.”

“It’s been more luck than skill along with yours and Abel’s skills.”

“You’re selling yourself short,” Ari replied as she got the jackstocks moving.

“Maybe. But that is how it feels.”

She looked at him. “You’re the one that makes this work. Ask the others. They’ll tell you the same thing.”

“Thanks. I guess I needed to hear that.”

“Probably.”

“Now about your pay.”

“Weren’t we going to split the take from my work?”

“Yeah, but our relationship has changed.”

“So?”

“So, I want to share more with my lady.”

Ariana smiled. “Just hold on to the money for now. I’m driving.”

“The hardest part of that is staying awake.”

“True.”

“Here, take 50 gold for now.”

“No! That’s too much.”

“No, it’s not.”

“It is. I’ll take half of that to make you happy, but no more.”

“Alright,” Jim agreed filling his coin purse with the 25 gold and handing it to Ari. She put it in her inventory.

“I’ll need the purse back.”

“You’ll get it later.”

“Why wouldn’t you take more?”

“I don’t need it and you’ll give me whatever I ask for,” Ari replied with a smile.

“That’s a good point,” Jim agreed with a matching smile.

“I have some juice in the cooling cabinet, will you get me a cup full?”

“Sure,” Jim answered getting up and going into the wagon.

“Thank you.”

Chapter 95

“Well, this sucks,” Jim said stating the obvious.

“Aye. The creek is flooded, and I don’t see a bridge,” Abel replied.

“We could go back and try to beat a path north and circle around,” Rhett offered.

“Or go back the way we came,” Remi said.

“Let’s go north and see what we find,” Jim replied. “And we were halfway to Bison Creek too.”

“Yeah. It’ll be ok. Think of it as an adventure,” Ariana told Jim. “I do.”

“So do I,” Jim replied. “Do we have enough room to turn the wagons?”

“Aye. If we don’t your jackstocks can knock some smaller trees out of the way,” Abel answered with a grin. The smith patted Jim on the back and walked back to the dwarves’ wagon. Remi and Ari climbed up onto Jim’s wagon while Rhett mounted the pony.

“It’s just one of those days I guess,” Jim mused to himself and walked back to the wagon.

*

Surprisingly, they found a semi grown over trail running along the creek a day later. Remi and the others thought it had been a game trail that people had started using. Remi had warned Jim and Ari to keep their eyes open. They did this as well as letting the wolves out. The wolves’ senses were far better than even the enhanced senses that people could possess.

The wolves stopped in front of a bush and started growling at it two hours later. Rhett pulled up a short distance away and motioned for Remi to stop Jim’s wagon. Ari had been using the time to work on some more salves while Jim and Remi took turns driving the wagon.

“Who’s there?” Rhett called out. The ears on all four wolves twitched. Dusk stayed facing the bush while Rex, May, and Kayja fanned out and faced other bushes and trees. Rhett called out again and pulled his war hammer from his inventory.

“Your aki wolves are impressive,” a woman’s voice called out.

“Who are you and why don’t you come out where I can see you?” Rhett yelled back.

“You don’t have to shout,” the woman stated as she dropped from a tree onto the trail. She wore green and brown clothing that blended in with the forest, but no armor. She was carrying a bow and had a quiver of arrows on her back. Jim spotted a dagger protruding from her right boot as well as one strapped to her left leg.

“Geez! I never knew she was there,” Jim told Remi. The woman looked toward Jim and grinned.

“She must have heard you,” Ari said as she stuck her head out of the doorway. The woman nodded her head and Rhett turned to look back quickly before facing forward again.

“I did indeed hear you,” the woman said as she brushed her hair over her left pointed left ear.

“Should have known you were an elf,” Rhett said. “I’ve only ever seen elves move so silently or effortlessly in a forest.”

“Indeed. In comparison, all other races sound like a heard of bison walking the forests,” the elven woman replied with a smile. “My city cousin in the wagon would need a lot of training before she could do so despite the skill being a talent we are born with.”

“Cousin?” Rhett asked.

“I mean in a general way. I have never seen her before and know not if she is kin.”

“Ah.”

“Might we know your name?” Jim asked.

“Only if you will return the favor.”

“I am Jim Merchant, your ‘cousin’ is my companion, Ariana, that is Rhett, and this is Remi. Eloise, Kyra, Leo, and elder Abel are in the other wagon.” Jim pointed to the wolves. “The wolves are Dusk, Rex, May, and Kayja.”

The woman’s grin turned into a smile as Jim introduced the wolves. “I am Yurie Lightstep. It is a pleasure to meet you all.”

“It is a pleasure to meet you as well,” Rhett replied. “By the wolves’ reaction, I take it you have friends in those trees or bushes.”

“Indeed. Might I call them out?”

“Please do,” Rhett answered.

Yurie whistled and four more elves stepped out of the bushes and from behind the trees. All wore similar armaments and clothing. Jim Appraised the elves. All were of similar levels as his guards. The wolves tipped the balance in favor of his team assuming this was all the elves. Yurie introduced her comrades as Abel and the others joined them. The rest of the introductions were made.

“So, what are you lot doing out here?” Yurie asked.

“As my name implies, I’m a traveling merchant,” Jim answered. We were on the way to Bison Creek.”

“But the creek has flooded its banks,” Kai, one of Yurie’s comrades concluded. Jim nodded in agreement. “So, you decided to look for a way around or a place to ford it.”

“Aye lad. That’s the short of it,” Abel agreed.

“Then you have a problem.”

“What do you mean? Ari asked.

“The only place to cross the creek is at our village three days north of here.”

“What?”

“Seriously?”

“It’s the truth,” Yurie replied with a shrug.

“If your village is three days away, what are you doing this far south?” Leo asked.

“Hunting,” Kai answered.

“Is game so hard to come by?” Eloise asked.

“No. The forests are full of game,” Kas, another elf answered. She looked almost just like Kai, so Jim assumed they were at least siblings, if not twins.

“In truth, we had tracked some white recluses back to their nest and exterminated them,” Yurie added. The dwarves nodded in understanding while Ariana looked excited. Jim frowned.

“What are white recluses?” he asked. The elves looked at him like he was crazy or stupid. “What? I’m not from Praha.”

“Oh.”

“White recluses are giant albino spiders,” Kas replied.

“Did you get any of their silk?” Ari asked. Yurie smiled.

“Of course.”

“Would you trade it?”

“Why would you want it?” Kai asked.

“I’m an alchemist. The silk is an excellent component for healing salves and potions.”

“It’s also useful to make clothing,” Leon, a large, but silent elf said.

“Or for making rope,” Selma, the fifth elf added.

“It’s a good thing there was so much of it,” Yurie replied. “I am willing to trade some of the silk depending on what you have to offer.”

“We should get moving,” Leon said. “This is not a good place to stay. It’s too close to the creek.”

“Would you like to accompany us to our village?” Yurie asked. The other elves threw a look at Yurie. “Blueridge is lovely this time of year.”

“What’s with the look?” Jim asked.

“It’s nothing.”

“No. When you invited us, your comrades didn’t like it,” Jim replied.

“You must have enhanced senses and be good at watching people,” Kai muttered.

“I do and I’m pretty good at people watching.”

“Traveling merchants should be welcome, but our village lord might disagree,” Yurie admitted.

“Why wouldn’t this lord welcome a traveling merchant?” Kyra asked.

“He doesn’t like strangers,” Selma answered. “If you come with us, he may just tax you.”

“Or kill you,” Leon added.

“You mean order the guards to kill us?” Eloise asked.

“No. I mean he will kill you if he decides he wants you dead.”

“I’ve never seen anyone that powerful before,” Abel said.

Yurie laughed. “Elder, have you ever met a dragon before?”

“Your lord is a dragon?” Kyra asked excitedly.

“Indeed.”

“Oh, for the love of Pete,” Jim muttered. He used his map to check where they were. Another two or three days would put them in the pocket the dragon had claimed according to what Jim had read and been told.

“Jim?” Ari asked. “What’s wrong?”

“Another two or three days of travel puts us right in the corner of the Northern Mountains and Eastern Forests.”

“Indeed, it does. Will you come with us anyway?”

“Can you promise us safety?” Leo asked.

“Of course not. A mortal does not tell a dragon what it can or cannot do,” Kas answered.

“That said, if you are willing to give to our lord and prove you are trustworthy, he should be willing to spare you,” Selma said.

“Why not? Let’s go,” Jim said. This silenced the others. “I’ve always wanted to see a real dragon.”

Chapter 96

“Those are beautiful mountains,” Ari said as the wagon exited the tree line, and the distant mountains came into view.

“We now cross into our lord’s territory,” Yurie announced. The elven huntress sat riding on top of Jim’s wagon with her feet dangling over the open doorway. The other elves had either ran along the tree branches over their heads or walked along beside the wagon. Those that had been in the trees dropped to the ground.

“The village is in the mountains?” Ari asked.

“It is.”

“I can see why it was named Blue Ridge,” Jim said. Between the fog shrouding the mountains and trees on them, the mountains had a bluish tint to them. They reminded Jim of the Appalachian Mountains. He grinned.

“Indeed. The name is apt, and we like it.”

“How long has the village been here?” Ariana asked.

“We are the third generations,” Yurie answered gesturing to herself and her comrades.

“We’ve been traveling three days and should have been there by now,” Kai groused.

“We travel at the pace the ponies and jackstocks like,” Jim said.

“And one that allows your craftspeople to work on their trades,” Kas replied.

Jim shrugged. “Yes. It works for us though. If you were in a hurry to return home, you could have left us.”

“What about monsters and bandits?” Leo asked. “Do they inhabit this area?”

“One does not enter into our lord’s territory alone or in groups without permission,” Selma replied.

“That doesn’t answer my question.”

“There are monsters scattered about,” Leon answered. “Mostly stone trolls deeper in the mountains.”

“Do you trade with them?” Jim asked.

“Are you mad?” Kai asked. “One does not trade with beasts.”

“Perhaps I am,” Jim answered with a shrug. “But the single stone troll I’ve had contact with was very happy to trade.”

“You’ve traded with a stone troll?” Kas asked.

“Yep. Skarn took over some other monster’s territory between Swift River and Raven’s Rest. The troll loves bison and fish.”

“Don’t forget the war hammer,” Ari added with a smile.

“And what did a troll trade you for meat and a war hammer?” Leon asked.

“Valuable monster parts and coin mostly,” Jim answered.

“The war hammer was in exchange for making sure certain parties didn’t follow us when we left Raven’s Rest,” Leo added.

“Yeah, that’s true,” Jim and Ari agreed at the same time. They laughed.

“You people are nuts,” Kai muttered and started walking.

“Well, let’s get going,” Leo suggested. “Kai will leave us if we don’t.”

*

The party was in the foothills and a day away from the village when Peggy and Al froze. The jackstocks started shying away from the trail and backing up despite Jim doing all he could to stop them.

“What is going on?” Ari asked as Eloise struggled with her pony. Jim did not doubt that the others struggled with the ponies hitched to the other wagon. The elves all seemed excited by their behavior.

“Our lord is near,” Yurie said with a huge smile on her face. The sky darkened as a huge shadow overtook them. The mules and ponies stilled as the wind picked up and a huge shape flew overhead.

“What in the name of all the metals is that?” Abel yelled.

Everyone looked up and watched as a dark azure dragon circled them once and landed on the trail ahead of them. Dust flew up all around the dragon as it pulled in its wings. Jim and the others covered their faces. The dragon was 100 ft long from the tip of its nose to the tip of its tail. The wingspan was at least twice that. The dragon opened its mouth and yawned.

“Ugh!” Ariana exclaimed at the smell.

“We don’t have to wonder what it had for lunch,” Jim quipped.

“Yeah. Fish,” Leo replied. Dusk and Kayja rolled onto their backs and started whining. Jim and Ari turned to look at the pair of wolves.

“They acknowledge a superior creature,” Ari said.

“My lord,” the hunters all said at the same time as they dropped to their knees.

“Raise. Have you taken care of the infestation?” the dragon asked shocking Jim and the others.

“We have my lord,” Yurie answered for the hunters as they stood.

“Good. Why have you brought dwarves, an elf, and a human here?”

“The human is a traveling trader. The others are his employees,” Yurie replied. “I thought a trader would be good for the village.”

“Why?”

“He has supplies that we do not and could perhaps trade for the things we do not have with others on behalf of the village.”

“Interesting,” the dragon replied. He turned his head to Jim. “Come forward merchant and let me have a closer look at you.”

“Jim…” Ari started.

“It’s alright. Remember my past,” Jim said standing up and handing Ari the reins. He hopped down and walked to within 15 feet of the dragon. He stopped and bowed.

“Why do you bow?”

Jim looked up. “You are the lord of these lands and I wanted to show my respect.”

“Do you truly believe that?”

“I’m not sure.”

The dragon laughed. “I like honest answers. Stand straight human and tell me your name.”

“Jim Merchant.”

“Well met Jim Merchant. I am Azure.”

“Is that your true name?” Jim asked without thinking. The elves looked shocked. Azure laughed again.

“No. Since no race is capable of dragon speech except for dragons, so it is the name I have adopted for dealing with mortals.”

“I see.”

“Do you?”

“I believe so,” Jim answered. He looked thoughtful for a moment. “Would a gift be acceptable?”

“So, do I. And yes, a gift is acceptable,” Azure answered. Jim gave the dragon 500 pounds of venison the wolves had hunted over the last few days. The dragon ate the offering. “Thank you. That was most thoughtful. You hide your fear well and are barely shaking. The smell gives it away though.”

“Thank you. May I call you Azure?” Jim asked. The great beast laughed once more as the others looked on in shock of Jim’s audacity.

“No mortal has asked that in the last century. You may.”

“Thank you, Azure. Might I introduce you to my friends?”

“Yes,” Azure answered. “Come forward,” the dragon commanded. Ariana and the others obeyed, and introductions were made.

“I can’t believe I just met a dragon!” Kyra squealed.

I know!” Ari agreed.

“He can hear you,” Yurie whispered.

“And you as well huntress,” Azure replied much to Yurie’s dismay. The dragon laughed again as the elf blushed. “Yurie, take your party back to the village. I must chat with our guests.”

“Yes lord,” the huntress replied. The elves bowed and left without another word. After a few minutes, Azure turned his attention back to Jim and his group.

“Yurie is correct. Blue Ridge can use you and your party,” Azure said.

“How so?” Abel asked.

“Elder, you have great skill as a blacksmith. The younger, excitable girl has good skills as an enchanter, the elven alchemist also has good skills for her level. Your kin are skilled guards and Jim is a decent trader. Though he could stand to learn to buy cheap from one location and sell high in another.”

Jim’s mouth dropped open. “How do you know that?”

“I’ve been watching you since you arrived on Stormgion.”

“You have? Ari asked as she clutched Jim’s left hand. Jim smacked his forehead with his right hand. “Jim?”

“Nobody ever looks up,” Jim said.

Azure laughed. “Indeed.” The dragon laid down and appeared to get comfortable. “Why don’t the rest of you take a seat and Jim can tell me how he arrived on this world.”

Chapter 97

“Interesting,” Azure said after Jim finished telling his tale sometime later.

“What made you think I’m from a different world?” Jim asked.

“Your smell to start.”

“My smell?”

“It is different than what a person born on Stormgion smells like. And the magic used to bring you here left a distinct odor on you as well.”

“But the wolves treat him like anyone else,” Ari blurted out.

“Indeed. He treats them well and more to the point they don’t care where someone is from. Plus, the white female is bound to him.”

“How do you know that about the wolves?”

“I’m a dragon,” Azure replied. He gave what Jim thought could be considered a grin. “We know things.”

“You don’t have a problem with me being an…outsider?” Jim asked.

“Interesting term. No, I do not have any issues with you being an outsider. The items and food you have brought have benefited people and will continue to do so.”

“Ok. Thanks,” Jim replied. “Would you mind answering a question?”

“If you want to know if I have the magic capable of sending you back to whatever world you are from, the answer is no.”

“Good to know, but that is not my question.”

“Ok. What do you want to know?”

“Would you mind giving me a ride and letting me see what the world is like from up there?” Jim asked gesturing to the sky. The others looked at Jim like he was nuts while he looked embarrassed.

Azure laughed long and hard, even snorting fire over their heads, which caused them to duck. The flame was blue, and the heat was more intense than Abel’s forge. When the dragon finally gained control over his laughter, he answered Jim. “I like you human, but I am not a mount and will not give rides.”

“Ok. Had to ask since it has always been a fantasy,” Jim replied sheepishly.

“Is there a way to capture your flame?” Kyra asked.

“No enchantress, there is not. My flame will melt or break any material that you can enchant.”

“Not a bad question to ask lass.”

“No elder, it was not,” Azure agreed.

“Since we are asking questions, do you shed scales?” Ariana asked. Azure turned an eye and studied the alchemist. Kyra and Abel looked as hopeful as Ari did.

“Thinking of turning my scales into alchemical ingredients?”

“I was,” Ari admitted.

“I do shed scales. I do not give them away though,” the dragon replied.

“Would you consider trading some?” Jim asked with a gleam in his eye. Like his experts, he was thinking of dragon scale armor and whatever else they could make from the scales.

“Perhaps. What would you offer?” Azure answered. “I am partial to gold and meat.”

“Who isn’t?” Leo asked in a whisper.

“Indeed,” Azure agreed shocking the guard. “I can hear the worms burrowing under the earth beneath us.”

“Oh,” Leo said. “How about mead and wine?”

“Why did you ask that?” Eloise asked her husband smacking him in the back of the head.

“He was hoping to have a giant drinking buddy,” Abel offered.

“I cannot get drunk. Spirits have no effect on me. I tried both once. Water and blood are much better,” Azure replied with another dragon grin.

“Are you teasing us?” Jim asked.

“Perhaps,” Azure answered. He looked at Rhett, Remi, and Abel. “Do you have questions you want to ask too?”

“No, we’re fine,” Remi replied taking Rhett’s right hand into her left and squeezing it.

“I don’t either,” Abel answered. “The youngsters have asked what I was interested in.

“Ah. Back to this proposed scale deal then. What say you Jim Merchant? Can you provide enough gold and meat to satisfy a dragon?”

“Maybe,” Jim replied stoking his chin. Azure cocked his head to the left looking at Eloise, Kyra, Ari, and Leo.

“Move to your left,” the dragon instructed them.

“Ok,” Eloise replied and ushered the others to comply.

No sooner had they moved than a wagon sized insect erupted from the ground. Azure attacked the monstrous bug with his flame. The beast fell and melted after a minute of being broiled alive.

“What was that?” Jim asked as Azure stopped his flames.

“A Behemoth Stag Beetle,” the dragon answered. “They are pests in these lowlands.”

“Are they threats to the village?” Ari asked.

“No. The beetles stay in the lowlands and foothills. I’m a bit surprised you did not run across one in the forest.”

“The carapace makes good armor,” Abel informed them.

“Not when it’s melted,” Leo replied.

“Aye.”

“Thank you, Azure.”

“You are welcome.”

“How much gold and meat were you thinking?” Jim asked the dragon and lord of the territory.

“You are remarkably adapting to changing conditions,” Azure observed.

“I would probably curl into a ball and cry if I stopped to think about what just happened,” Jim admitted. Ari looked at him in shock.

“Jim?”

“I’m ok. I’m just grateful that Azure saved you and the others,” Jim told his companion and lover.

“Consider it a gift in exchange for the venison you gave me.”

“Thank you.”

“As for what I would want for my old scales,” Azure said and shrugged. “One bison and 10 gold per 100 old scales will do.”

“We don’t have any bison,” Rhett said.

“Lad, you would need to travel to the heartland to get bison,” Abel said. “There are ranchers that would sell them there.”

“We would need more guards or hands to help move a herd of bison too,” Jim mused.

“A herd?” Remi asked.

“Yep. If I’m going to do it, I’ll do it right,” Jim replied.

“Why a herd?” Ari asked. “And how big of one?”

“I was thinking 100 bison at least,” Jim answered. “The reason for a herd is so the village gets some benefit from them as well.”

“Interesting. I like the way you think and approve of this plan,” Azure said.

“Do you approve of it enough to sell 150 scales for 20 gold?”

“Ha! I would do so for 30 gold.”

“That’s too much. You’ll greatly benefit from the herd as will the village. I will go 25 gold and not a copper more.”

“Alright. I’ll sell you 150 scales for 25 gold.”

“Guess we’ll have to turn back so we can get to the heartland,” Rhett said.

“No. There is a mountain pass that I blocked over a century ago that I will open to allow you into the heartland,” Azure said getting to his feet and moved off the trail. “That is for later though. Come, I will escort you to Blue Ridge.”

“You’re going to walk?” Ari asked.

“Of course. I do not fly everywhere,” Azure answered with another dragon grin. “Besides, this way I can offer Jim and the rest of you permanent residence in the village.”

“And expound on why we should accept the offer?” Jim asked with his own grin.

“Exactly. Now mount up.”

“You heard him. Let’s ride,” Jim ordered. He checked his sheet on the way back to the wagon. He had leveled up and gained a level in Bartering. Jim smiled.

{

Jim Merchant

Level: 8

Class: Merchant

Health: 180

Stamina: 180

Strength(6)

Endurance(6)

Dexterity(7)

Charisma(17)

Intelligence(15)

Wisdom(12)

Luck(15)

Skills: Appraise(2)

Bartering(8)

Harvesting(2)

Invention(4)

Strategy(1)

Tactics(1)

Gold:125

Silver:65

Copper:82

}

Chapter 98

The trail Azure led them on was wide enough for two wagons to travel side by side and entered the village square. Blue Ridge started at the foot of a mountain. The village square was in the relatively small open space. A temple, inn, dock, boathouse, warehouse, smithy, carpenter’s shop, mason’s shop, and a large burned-out lot were located. A bakery was located there as well. From the square going up onto the mountain were the villagers’ homes. Two sides of the square were bordered by the lake. The lake itself was surrounded by mountains. Jim wondered if the area had been a volcano at some point in the past as he took in the sights and the villagers exited their homes and shops to gawk at the newcomers.

“This is breathtaking,” Ari said. “And the waterfall is incredible.”

“I agree,” Jim replied. “Blue Ridge is magnificent.”

“It’s small though,” Eloise said from the pony.

“I’m pleased that you like my village,” Azure said. “And yes, it is small.”

“Are there any farms?” Jim asked.

“Yes. If we follow this path, it will lead us through the village and to the area that has been set aside for terraced farms.”

“Where are you going to put the bison?” Ari asked.

“Past the terraced farms and along the lake is a wider open area. That land makes good pasture, plus it exits into a valley. The bison will be located there.”

“If the area is larger, why isn’t the village located there?”

“To maximize the available space,” Azure answered.

“That makes sense. Is the cold the biggest threat to the village?”

“What cold?” Ari asked.

Azure turned and looked at her. “You must be a city girl. Here in the mountains snow can be a problem and the lake can freeze if it gets cold enough. I generally prevent that from happening by flying low over the lake and blasting fire across the surface on the occasions it gets cold enough.”

“Yeah, I was born and raised in Raven’s Rest. Until Jim came along, I had never considered leaving it,” Ariana replied. “You don’t shoot fire into the lake to keep from killing fish, don’t you?”

“Correct. My flames can penetrate the water, but I don’t want to kill off a food source.”

“Does it get cold enough often?” Eloise asked.

“No. Maybe every five years on average. Last winter was cold enough, so this coming winter should be milder.”

“What’s with the burned-out lot?” Jim asked as he stopped the wagon in the middle of the square.

“That was where our former merchant resided. She was a dwarf and got really drunk one night during the winter a few years back and accidently burned her shop down.”

“That’s sad,” Ari replied as Abel and the others walked up.

“Indeed.”

“Why hasn’t anyone else cleared the lot or rebuilt the building?” Jim asked.

“We don’t get many visitors and the villagers were able to make most of what they thought they needed,” Azure answered with a shake of his head. “Plus, none of them have the necessary skills to be a successful trader or merchant.”

Jim laughed but didn’t say anything.

“What is on the other side of the lake?” Abel asked. He grinned and continued, “Besides mountains that is.”

Azure grinned or at least gave a dragon’s approximation of a grin. “A trail that leads into the Northern Mountains, our mines, and quarry.”

“The miners take boats across?” Remi asked.

“Yes. In the boathouse on the other side is a barge we use to haul metal and stone across when needed,” Azure answered. Jim could make out the boathouse now that he was aware that it was there.

“People don’t get rich here, do they?” Leo asked.

“You’ll be surprised if you believe that,” Yurie said as she joined them. “Blue Ridge is a small village, not a poor one.”

“It’s very peaceful. I like it,” Jim said. Azure gave another dragon smile.

“Would you be willing to clear the lot and stay?” the dragon asked the merchant.

“Perhaps. Was this area a volcano caldera before it was settled?”

Azure gave Jim an appraising look. He nodded in the affirmative and answered. “Indeed. Before I settled here it was.”

“Is that why you chose to settle here?” Abel asked.

“Yes. The gas and magma keep my lair very comfortable.”

“Aren’t you and the villagers worried the volcano will erupt?” Ari asked.

“No,” Yurie answered and laughed. “Our lord keeps the volcano dormant.”

“Interesting,” Rhett said.

“Indeed,” Azure replied to Rhett. The dwarf looked shocked the dragon agreed with him. “So, Jim, about my offer.”

“What is the offer exactly?” Jim asked. “You asked if I would live here, not make an offer.”

“Clever mortal,” Azure replied with another smile. “I offer you and your party, if they desire it, residency in Blue Ridge for as long as you like. I also offer the lot where Grace, the old merchant, had her shop in exchange for your bond that you will acknowledge these lands as mine and that you will not harm the village or its inhabitants.”

Jim set the brake. “Ari, would you get the rear brake?”

“Yeah,” the alchemist replied. She went into the wagon and set the brake.

“That’s a good idea,” Remi said.

“I’ll set it,” Rhett said and trotted off. Ari came back out of the wagon.

“Let’s take a closer look at that lot,” Jim said hopping down. Ari climbed down taking his hand for assistance. Yurie and Azure looked on in amusement.

The dragon led the way into the large lot. In truth the lot was large enough to house several structures. Abel said, “This isn’t a lot, it’s a few lots put together.”

“This is true,” Yurie replied. “Grace had planned on expanding her operations, but never got around to it. There is a private dock too.” Yurie pointed to the dock.

“Grace never used the warehouse over there?” Jim asked going over to the indicated dock.

“No. She kept all of her materials in her shop,” Azure answered.

“I think I would want to put up a fence,” Jim muttered walking back to the others.

“Why? Do you not trust people?” Yurie asked.

“Trust has to be earned,” Abel replied before Jim could.

“That, and I think fencing off the lot would look nice,” Jim answered. “Plus, give us some privacy.”

“How much privacy could you have with your guards and others living with you?” Yurie asked.

“You’d be surprised,” Leo quipped earning a smile from and nod from the huntress.

“What do you think?” Ari asked Jim.

“A two-story house and shop in the center front with a wide porch. Technically three stories with the basement. Fencing extended from both sides of the shop and going around the edges of the lot including the waterfront. Rebuild the dock as it looks like it needs work and add a small boathouse centered behind the shop. On the left side of the lot, put in a stable and barn for the jackstocks, ponies, and wagons. On the right, put in a smithy and maybe attached house,” Jim answered and raised an eyebrow in question at Abel. The smith nodded yes to Jim’s unasked question.

“There is still a lot of empty space,” Azure observed, “depending on the size of the buildings.”

“Garden space to grow some of Ari’s most used herbs, flowers, and other plants as well as some actual vegetables,” Jim answered. “If I’m not missing my guess, this lot is two acres of land.”

“Right at it,” Azure agreed.

“That would give the wolves plenty of space to play in,” Ari said.

“Well Jim?”

Jim looked to the others. “I really like this village and love the views. What do you all think?”

“I go where you go,” Ari said. “And I agree that this seems like a good place to put down roots.”

“You’ve paid us for a year,” Remi said after exchanging looks with her sister and their husbands. “I also agree that this seems like a good place to settle.”

“I couldn’t have said it any better,” Eloise agreed with her sister. Leo and Rhett shrugged.

“They’re the bosses,” Leo quipped.

“Blue Ridge will do,” Abel said.

“Are you giving up wanting to travel?” Kyra asked Jim.

“I’ll still travel some. But I’ll also have a place to call home too,” Jim answered with a shrug.

“Ok. Just checking. I don’t mind settling down either. My master will be here, so that means I will be too,” Kyra replied.

“In that case, I accept your offer, Lord Azure.”

“Just call me Azure.”

“Alright.”

Chapter 99

“Do either of you notice that all the houses are stone and there aren’t a lot of seams and mortar?” Jim asked.

“I saw that they are stone, but not the mortar thing,” Ariana admitted. “I mostly watch people.”

“I mostly watch people too,” Remi said.

“Is that why you asked about the houses?” Ari asked.

“Partially. The houses and other buildings all being very well constructed and made of stone just struck me as odd,” Jim answered. “Catfish Landing and Rock Hope had more than their share of wood buildings.”

“Perhaps there is a mage here that helps with the construction,” Remi said.

“Maybe,” Jim agreed. They fell into silence.

“Azure has gone to get the dragon scales?” Ari asked as her, Jim, and Remi continued walking around the village along with Kayja and Dusk. The others had stayed with the wagons.

“Yep. He wants the gold as soon as possible,” Jim answered. All three of them nodded and smiled at the villagers that looked their way as they passed them.

“Then should we be walking around?” Remi asked. Ariana nodded her agreement.

“I don’t see why not. We’re not going far,” Jim answered. “And it’s not like we can’t see him coming.”

“True.”

“Have you thought about how we are going to build a shop, stable, smithy, and boathouse?” Ariana asked.

“Yeah. We’ll hire some of the villagers.”

“If they are willing?”

“Well, yeah,” Jim agreed. “Do you think they would object to helping their new merchant, alchemist, enchanter, and smith while being paid for said help?”

“Perhaps,” Remi answered. “Blue Ridge already has a smith and may have an alchemist.”

“And they may not like having new competition,” Ari concluded. “Or their friends too.”

“Fair point,” Jim conceded.

“I suppose we could ask Azure about that,” Ari said. Jim and Remi nodded in agreement.

“How are we going to get bison up here?” Remi asked. “Thinking of hiring some of the villagers for that too?”

“Yeah, I am. I’ve also thought about asking Azure to meet us there and do whatever he did to the wolves, mules, and ponies to the bison to make them docile.”

“Maybe you could hire some more guards and people experienced with bison on a temporary contract to get back to Azure’s territory and then release them if Azure will meet and do whatever he did,” Remi replied. They had just crossed the halfway point in their circuit of the village.

“Then there is the question of what you’re going to do with the bison. Are you going to give them all to Azure and the village?” Ari asked.

“No. I was thinking we would keep most of them.”

“Why?”

“Azure will get what was agreed to in exchange for his old scales. The rest though,” Jim shrugged. “We will raise and sell them for their meat and hides.”

“Makes sense.”

“Does this world have sheep?”

“Small animals that you shear for their wool and that people eat?” Remi asked.

“That’s them,” Jim replied with a smile.

“Yes. Stormgion has sheep,” Remi replied with a smile of her own.

“Thinking of getting some of them too?” Ari asked.

“Yep. I think the villagers and our new lord will appreciate sheep.”

“What makes you say that?” Ari asked.

“Variety and the wool.”

“Everybody wears clothes made from bison, mountain goat, or deer hides,” Remi said.

“And anybody I’ve seen cooking over a fire has been cooking fish or venison,” Ari added.

“I may have to give you two raises again,” Jim replied with a grin.

“Hold that thought. Azure just exited the waterfall,” Ari said. Jim and Remi turned to watch the dragon take flight.

“Well, let’s get back to the wagons. I want Abel and Kyra to get started on armor or whatever else they can make from the scales as quickly as possible,” Jim said. “Remi, how much would a suit of dragon scale armor sell for?”

“At least 100 gold without any enchantments.”

“Yeah, let’s hurry up,” Ari said before setting action to her words and walking away quickly with the wolves following her. Jim and Remi hurried to catch up.

*

“Here are the scales,” Azure said when Jim and the ladies returned to the wagons. He dropped them onto the bigger table after Jim set it out. Abel and Kyra took the scales. Azure, Jim, and the others smiled and laughed.

“Here is the gold,” Jim replied setting the gold on the table in front of the dragon. The coins disappeared and Jim assumed Azure had an inventory. “Azure, is there a mage here that helps with the construction?”

“Why do you ask?” the dragon asked. Jim explained what he, Ari, and Remi had discussed about the buildings earlier. “I assist with the buildings.”

“You do?” Kyra asked. She was shocked the dragon would stoop to help with such a mundane task.

“Indeed. As lord of these lands, I feel it is my responsibility to ensure the welfare of my people. Part of that is making sure they have food and a good roof over their heads.”

“I see.”

“I noticed most of the people here are humans and elves, with just a couple of dwarves around,” Remi said.

“Did you check the mines, inn, or cave entrance near the upper homes?”

“No.”

“The dwarves are usually in one of those three places.”

“Why a cave?” Ari asked.

“It’s an entrance to homes within the mountain,” Abel answered.

“The elder is correct,” Azure said. He turned his head to Abel. “Would you and your kin like to live in the mountain with them?”

“No, thank you,” Abel answered after a moment. He turned to Jim. “You were planning on building a basement, weren’t you?”

“I was if it is possible.”

“Then instead of building a smithy, perhaps we can make a small complex for us and whatever storage you wanted in a basement under your shop instead,” Abel replied looking back and forth between Jim and Azure.

“I don’t mind,” Jim said. “Ari, do you?”

“No. I like the idea too,” the alchemist answered. “Will we be able to vent out the smoke from the smithy?”

“Yes,” Azure answered. “I will assist in doing what needs done.”

“You will?” Rhett asked.

“Indeed.”

“Why?”

“You all gave your word and will help to grow the village. In return, I will do what I can to assist you in building your new home.”

“Thank you,” everyone chorused.

“How long would it take to build this underground complex?” Jim asked.

“Not long, depending on what they want,” Azure answered. “Perhaps two days.”

“Impossible,” Eloise said.

“No, it’s not. You’ve never seen a dragon move through stone before,” Abel replied.  “Tis a sight you will not forget.”

“The elder is correct once more. Heed his wisdom,” Azure said with a dip of his head in acknowledgement of Abel’s wisdom.

Chapter 100

“Why are you gathering the villagers?” Jim asked Azure as the runners he had sent to gather the villagers in the square ran off an hour before sunset.

“To introduce you and your company,” the dragon lord answered.

“We could introduce ourselves over time,” Ariana pointed out.

“You could, but this will be quicker and better,” Azure countered.

“Quicker yes, better? Maybe,” Jim replied.

“What makes you doubt?” Azure asked.

“Part of me has never liked large crowds,” Jim started.

“Says the man that had an enchanted voice amplifier built,” Kyra interjected.

“Eh. Alright. You got me there,” Jim replied with a shrug.

“A voice amplifier?” Azure asked. “Might I see this thing?”

“Yeah,” Jim answered taking the disc out of his inventory. He showed the dragon how it worked.

“Interesting. Might I try it?”

“You’re the lord, so yes,” Jim answered with a grin on his face. He held the disc in front of Azure’s face. “Just let me know when you’re ready.”

“Good thinking. Claws do not lend themselves to holding such small items,” Azure said while holding up on massive paw. “I am ready.”

Jim pressed the activation rune and Azure roared. The sound carried throughout the mountains and Azure’s eyes tracked a flock of birds take flight on a distant mountain. Everyone else covered their ears, including Jim who dropped the disc.

“What was that?” Kai yelled as he and the other hunters came running up. “Are we under attack?”

“Apologies,” Azure replied. “That was me testing a voice amplifier.”

“A what?” Leon asked.

“An enchanted device that makes sound louder,” Kyra answered. The elf nodded his understanding.

“I can see several uses for this device,” Azure said.

“It’s a good thing sound doesn’t cause avalanches,” Jim replied.

“Indeed,” Azure agreed.

“What are avalanches?” Ari asked. The hunters looked at her like she was stupid. “What? I was born and raised in Raven’s Rest and had never left it until I met Jim.”

“Same, except for in Diamond Shoals,” Kyra agreed. “Living in larger towns meant never having to worry about things that happened outside them too much.”

“Avalanches are massive amounts of snow, ice, and rock that rapidly fall down a mountain,” Azure answered as Ari’s and Kyra’s eyes widened in alarm.

“Miss the city now?” Jim asked.

“No,” Ari answered.

“Sort of,” Kyra admitted. “Just the idea of an avalanche is scary.”

“Don’t worry. They do not happen on this side of the mountain. The other side is where that is an issue,” Azure assured the dwarf.

“Is that why the village is here?” Kyra asked.

“Partially. My lair and the lake are the other reasons,” Azure answered. “The rest of the villagers are starting to come.”

Jim and the others turned and saw people walking their way from the upper reaches. Abel asked, “What about the miners?”

“They should be coming as well,” Azure answered. The dragon turned his head back to look at the lake. “Yes, they are coming. We will wait a little while longer to introduce all of you to the villagers.”

*

“My people, I would like to introduce you to our newest residents,” Azure said without any preamble once all the villagers were gathered. “Standing beside me is Jim Merchant. As his name hints at, he is a merchant.”

Jim waved as the villagers started talking amongst themselves. He noticed that most looked excited. Azure paused and Jim said the first thing that came to mind, “Hi.”

“Beside Jim is his mate… sorry, you are not dragons,” Azure continued to laughter from the villagers. “I mean companion, Ariana. She is an alchemist.”

Ariana blushed but slipped her left hand into Jim’s right. He gave it a gentle squeeze as the villagers became even more excited at the mention of Ari being an alchemist. Ari waved and said, “Hi.”

“Beside Ariana is Abel. Abel is a dwarven elder and blacksmith.”

The miners and several other dwarves nodded in acknowledgement of Abel’s status. A human looked upset upon hearing that Abel was a smith. Abel noticed this. “Hi. And for anyone wondering, I will not be opening a smithy to compete with your blacksmith. I am contracted to Jim. Anything I make is his to sell.”

“Beside Abel is Kyra. She is Abel’s apprentice as well as an enchantress.”

“Hello,” Kyra said shyly as the crowd once more talked excitedly amongst themselves.

“Beside her is Leo and Eloise, his wife. They are guards employed by Jim,” Azure continued his introductions. The husband-and-wife pair greeted the crowd.

“Beside them are Eloise’s sister Remi, and her husband, Rhett. They are also guards,” Azure said finishing the introductions. Remi and Rhett greeted the crowd as well.

“Do not forget to warn them about the aki wolves, my lord,” Yurie said.

“Of course. Be warned that they have four aki wolves as guardians and hunters as well,” Azure stated. The crowd murmured at that, and a few mothers pulled their children closer.

“The wolves will not harm anyone unless given reason to,” Jim added.

“And what kind of reason is that?” a woman asked.

“Trying to hurt or steal from us,” Jim answered.

“You’ll find no thieves here in Blue Ridge,” the woman replied. “But what you said makes sense too.”

“What kind of wares do you have?” a man asked.

“I have a lot of different things. Food, spices, coffee, potions, and much more.”

“When will you start selling?” another woman asked.

“When I have a chance to set up.”

“How much will you charge?” a man called out.

“Price depends on the item, and I try to price fairly.”

“I’ve heard that before,” the same man said to laughter.

“Enough questions for now,” Azure said gently which silenced the villagers. “Tomorrow I will start work on the basement for Jim’s shop.”

“That shouldn’t take you long, my lord,” one of the miners yelled.

Azure laughed. “No, it will not. For the work Abel and Jim want done, maybe four hours including building up part of the walls.”

“Really?” Remi asked.

“Just wait and see,” Abel replied.

“After I am done, they will need workers to help build the rest of the shop as well as a stable, boathouse, and rebuilding the dock. He will pay of course,” Azure told the villagers. Several of them looked happy at the prospect of paid work. “I will leave Jim to work out the details with you all.”

“My lord?” Abel said getting Azure’s attention.

“Yes elder?”

“I have an idea for the smithy in the underground chamber to vent the smoke and heat out.”

“Do tell,” Azure ordered. Jim and Ari looked on with interest.

“If we or more precisely, you could make stone vents throughout the complex as well as a single large chimney,” Abel began.

“That with Kyra doing air flow enchantments should allow the smoke out, but keep the heat in,” Azure concluded.

“Aye.”

Azure turned to Kyra. “If this works, would you be willing to do similar enchantments for the rest of the village?”

“I don’t mind, but I’m under contract to Jim.”

“Jim?”

“As long as we are getting paid for her work, I don’t mind either.”

“Hmmm. The villagers don’t have a lot of coin for such an undertaking. I will pay. How much would you want for this work?”

“We’ll have to see if Abel’s idea works first,” Jim replied. “But maybe we could just trade the work for more of your old scales?”

“Ha. That is acceptable and judging by the gleam in Kyra’s eyes, she agrees.”

“I do,” Kyra agreed.

“Aye. So do I,” Abel added with a gleam in his eyes as well.

“Five scales per building,” Azure offered.

“Ten per home,” Jim countered. Twenty scales for the warehouse or any other building people don’t live in.”

“Agreed,” Azure said after a moment of thought. “Old scales are free for me, and I get to keep my gold.”

“This is a good deal,” Ariana said. “Abel and Kyra get to craft unique armor and maybe shields with the scales, Jim gets to sell the goods, the villagers get life improvements, and Azure keeps his gold.”

“Yes, but it would be better if I got more gold,” Azure grumbled good naturedly. He jumped into the air. “I will see you tomorrow.”

Chapter 101

“Are you sure you really want to build a shop here?” Ariana asked as her and Jim walked along the lakefront. Kayja and Dust were running ahead of them at the moment. They had been running back and forth. “And was it wise to leave the others?”

“Azure promised we would be safe in his domain, especially in the village and around the lake, so I felt it was ok to let them stay at the wagons talking to the other dwarves,” Jim answered with a shrug. “Besides, we have Kayja and Dust.”

“True. Now, answer my first question,” Ariana replied and then ordered with a smile gracing her face.

Jim returned the smile and took her right hand into my left. “Look at this place,” he said gesturing to our surroundings. “It’s beautiful. And the village does need people like us.”

“It is,” Ari agreed “And they do seem happy to have us.”

“This is the kind of place I had in mind when I started thinking about setting up a permanent residence and shop.”

“There is something almost magical about it,” Ari replied. She let go of Jim’s hand and pushed her body into his side. Jim turned and put his arms around her. They stood and watched the sun start to dip behind some distant peaks. “When I realized I would be leaving Raven’s Rest and started thinking of where we might settle, I had been thinking the Eastern Forests. But this will do nicely.”

“Yeah, it’ll do. Blue Ridge also seems safer than any other place I’ve seen or heard of.”

“Having Azure ruling over the area is the reason why,” Ari quipped and grinned. “Who in their right minds would challenge a dragon? Even the dangerous beasts and monsters stay away from the village and lake according to the hunters.”

“Very true. It’s also the kind of place one could start a family.”

Ari turned her head and pulled back enough to look Jim in the eyes. “Jim, are you trying to say what I think you are?”

“Depends on what you think I’m thinking,” he replied looking into her eyes.

“I think you’re hinting that you want to get married and have children.”

“You got it with your first answer.”

Ariana grinned. “Is there anyone in particular that you want to marry?”

“Yep, and I’m holding her right now.”

“Good. But just so you know, elven tradition is to court for six months before marriage. Well, at least that is what I’ve read,” Ari replied looking a little sad. Jim pulled her closer and into a hug.

“We can ask the new neighbors and a certain mountain lord. I’m sure they know,” Jim said. “Perhaps we could even ask Abel about the dwarven traditions.”

“Not the human ones?”

“Maybe, but I’m not sure any other humans would react positively to me not knowing what common knowledge like that should be.”

“Yeah, that’s true. It’ll get dark soon,” Ari said. She whistled and called the wolves to come back. “Let’s head back.”

“What about marriage?” Jim asked. Ari broke the hug and started walking back toward the village.

She looked over her shoulder and smiled. “I’ll let you know when you actually ask me.”

Jim looked down at Kayja, who was waiting for him. “I asked for that sort of answer, didn’t I?” Kayja made a barking-howl type sound. Jim rubbed her head before walking after Ari and Dust. Kayja kept in step. “Yeah, I thought so too.”

*

Jim and Abel were drinking coffee the next morning while Rhett and Leo were making breakfast for the group. Ariana and Kyra were talking with them. Eloise and Remi were checking on the ponies. Jim had just returned from checking on Al and Peggy. A few women walked down to the lake carrying baskets of laundry.

“Good morning,” Jim called out to them. The women returned the greeting. “Ma’am, don’t you have a water pump or something like that at home?”

“We all do. It’s just easier to wash clothes in the lake than pump water,” the woman replied.

“Oh. Thank you.”

“Will you be selling stuff today?” she asked.

“I might this afternoon depending on how long it takes Azure to do what he said he would do today.”

“Ok. If you have any meat other than venison, boar, and freshwater fish, you’ll sell all you have.”

“Good to know. Thank you,” Jim replied. The woman nodded her head in acknowledgement and talked to the other woman that accompanied her as they started washing their clothes.

“You know, we should make something that makes doing laundry easier,” Abel said. “I suppose you had something that did that on the other world.”

“We did. We called them washing machines,” Jim said. He pulled his notebook and pen out. Jim started sketching. “Abel, you’re a genius.”

“Aye. I know that lad,” the elder replied. Jim looked up at the smith in shock. Abel normally didn’t brag. The smith grinned and laughed. “What are you drawing?”

“A washing machine. Or at least a simple one,” Jim answered. “We’ll need a metal box that can hold water with a hinged lid. It’ll also need some kind of arm or blade in the bottom that will turn so the laundry moves in the water.”

“And control runes?”

“Aye,” Jim replied which earned a laugh from Abel. Jim laughed as well after he realized how he answered. “One to start and stop the blade or arm, one to fill the box with water, and one to dissolve the water.”

“Might as well make a box that dries the clothes with air while we are at it,” Abel said. “Could use the same sort of enchantments as on the stoves and in the wagons.”

Jim laughed.

“The other world has a drying machine?”

“Yeah. They are called dryers.”

“Figures.”

“Do you think you and Kyra could build prototypes?”

“Of course. I was really wanting to work with the dragon scales though.”

“I know. Let’s do this. You and Kyra make prototypes of the washer and dryer. We’ll then get the smith here to build the bodies if he is agreeable.”

“And then?” Abel asked looking at Jim’s sketch.

“After the prototypes, you work on the dragon scale armor and whatever else you want to make.”

“And if the smith won’t work with us?”

“You two do the dragon scale work and then start on making washers and dryers. I think they’ll sell really well in the bigger cities.”

“If priced right, they’ll sell here too.”

“I hope so,” Jim replied.

“Adding a drum on the inside of both machines to help move the laundry would be an improvement on the design,” Abel mused. Jim smiled.

“What are you two talking about?” Kyra asked. “Breakfast is ready.”

“I’ll tell everyone while we eat,” Jim promised.

“Alright. Come on then,” Kyra said.

Chapter 102

“It looks like half the village has shown up,” Rhett told Jim and Leo.

“I guess it isn’t every day that you get to see a dragon work stone,” Jim replied.

“That’s true. Still, since most of them have lived here all their lives, you would think they would have seen it happen at least once.”

“You have to take your entertainment where you can get it,” Leo said. “Jim should sell popcorn.”

“D’oh! I don’t have any popcorn made nor time to prepare it,” Jim replied. He mused to himself that it was too bad the dwarves didn’t get the reference to a certain cartoon.

“Some merchant you are,” Leo quipped. “Shame on you for missing opportunities like this.”

“Leo has a point. Most merchants would be taking advantage of this.”

“True,” Jim agreed. “Then again, not trying to profit on our new neighbors might work to our advantage in the long term.

“That’s the thing about you, Jim.”

“What thing?”

“You don’t have a killer instinct,” Leo answered.

“Leo is right,” Rhett admitted. “Every merchant I’ve ever met besides you would be selling whatever they could to the gathered villagers. You also don’t maximize your profits.”

“We’ve made good money,” Jim objected.

“True. But how much of that is due to your inventions or Abel’s craftsmanship?” Rhett asked. “That stuff has really been selling itself.”

“True. But doesn’t a good merchant have the goods people want and offer them? I’ve done that.”

“True.”

“Besides, I’ve admitted that I’m making this up as I go along and had no experience being a merchant before.”

“Don’t worry about it, Jim. You’ve made some positive strides,” Leo said.

“That’s true too,” Rhett agreed. “The bison and sheep idea were brilliant. As was the trade for Azure’s scales.”

“Are you two through hassling Jim?” Abel asked. The other three men turned to see the elder standing behind them.

“That wasn’t hassling. That was constructive criticism,” Leo replied.

“Uh huh. Jim may have made mistakes, but like he said, he has made money and makes good sales. Beyond that, he has already paid our salaries for the year,” Abel said. “How many other merchants would or even could have done that this early?”

“Good point,” Rhett agreed.

“I don’t mind their teasing,” Jim said and shrugged. “Friends do that to each other.”

“You consider us friends?” Leo asked.

“Yeah, I do.”

“Even though it is not proper, the feeling is mutual lad,” Abel replied after getting nods of agreement from his kin.

“Why isn’t it proper?” Jim asked. “The whole employer and employee thing?”

“Aye.”

“Oh. I’m not worried about that at all.”

“Good. That makes four of us,” Abel replied. “Here comes Azure. This should be interesting.”

*

“Where do you want the entrance?” Azure asked as he landed. “And good morning by the way.”

“Good morning,” Jim and the rest replied. “We thought about putting the shop in the middle of the lot, so, in the center I suppose.”

“Good enough for me,” Azure said. “Stand back, watch, and be amazed.”

“He’s not bragging either,” Abel added as Azure took flight and hovered just above the ground.

“Further back,” Azure warned as everyone complied.

Azure nodded when they had retreated far enough. The dragon blew a concentrated blast of fire onto the center of the lot. He landed and scooped the stone out with his left front claw. The stone seemed like mud as Azure scooped it out and set it beside the hole he was making.

“Truly amazing!” Jim gushed.

“I never thought I would see something like this,” Ari replied.

“I’ve read stories about dragons’ magic, but this is truly a sight I never dreamed of seeing,” Kyra added.

“Just wait,” Abel replied. “You’ve seen nothing until he shapes the stone into the rooms we want.”

*

Within a couple of hours, Azure had finished the basement complex Jim and Abel had wanted including the stairs leading to the surface. After a short break, Azure molded the ground into a smooth floor and added the first-floor walls for the shop including the doorways and openings for windows. Azure added the front porch and stone columns as well.

“He is like a sculptor working with clay,” Jim said.

“Yes. Azure is an artist,” Ariana agreed.

“Thank you for the kind words,” the dragon said once he finished the porch. “Give me a few minutes to rest and I’ll continue.”

“Is the magic taxing?” Kyra asked.

“It can be. I rest often to keep it from being so,” Azure answered. “Jim, are you going to use wood for the rest of the house and shop?”

“Would it be much trouble to use stone for the rest of the outside and a high-pitched roof?” Jim asked.

“No. I still have a lot of stone here from making the basement, so it will not be difficult. Is that what you want?”

“Yes. Thank you,” Jim replied.

“Why a high pitch for the roof?” Eloise asked.

“There was a house I saw once that was mostly stone and had a high pitch. It also had the arches and columns on the porch like Azure did here.”

“Interesting,” Remi replied.

“Indeed,” Azure agreed. “Jim, would you mind sharing the memory of this place?”

Jim’s eyes widened. “You can read memories?”

“Mind magic allows dragons to,” Azure answered. “That magic is one of my secrets that you must keep.”

“We will,” Ari promised.

“Yes, I’ll share the memory,” Jim said after a moment.

“Thank you,” Azure replied. The dragon lowered his head and looked Jim in the eyes. “Just look into my eyes and think about the house. This will not hurt a bit.”

Jim did as instructed by his new lord. A moment later he felt a presence in his head and then the presence was gone.

“You were there and gone in an instant,” Jim said.

“Yes. I got what I needed to see and nothing more. This I promise.”

“Ok,” Jim replied nodding his head.

“Now, that I know what you truly want this house and shop to be, this won’t take much longer,” Azure said. The dragon got back to work and added a chimney on the west end as well as a fireplace. He extended the chimney into the basement for the forge. Azure added the high roof and turned the stone into shingles. “The shingles will not come off.”

“That is reassuring,” Jim replied as Azure added a deck extending off the second floor overlooking the lake. “That adds a handy covered back porch.”

“Indeed,” Azure replied as he finished. “Are you going to use wood for the upstairs rooms and stairs?”

“Yeah, except for the kitchen and hall since you’ve already done them. It’ll help brighten up things on the inside,” Jim answered.

“I will make the stable, boathouse, and wall for you after lunch,” Azure said. “Those are similar structures so will not take as long to build.”

Chapter 103

“This is amazing!” Ariana said as her and the others walked around the now walled off lot taking in the work that Azure had done.

“Yeah, it is,” Jim agreed. Azure was relaxing in the lake snatching a fish here and there as they looked around.

“I sat the house or shop back a little further than you had originally wanted and extended the fence or wall at an angle until it was a few feet away from the path to allow wagons some room in case you had deliveries that could not enter in the yard while waiting for others to be unloaded,” the dragon lord stated.

“We appreciate the consideration,” Jim replied. “But with storage devices able to stack, just how many wagonloads of goods do you think we’ll actually get?”

“Ha. You’re going to help feed me, so you might be surprised,” Azure answered with a rumbling laugh.

“Plus, some things might not fit into a storage device,” Abel added.

“Logs for example?” Jim guessed.

“Aye.”

“Would logs be worth selling?” Kyra asked.

“I’m no expert lass, but I suspect so,” Abel answered.

“The elder is correct,” Azure said. “Some of the juniper, spruce, mountain pines, cedars, and other large trees in the high country are very much desired by nobles. Even more so since I have claimed this territory and cut off access to them.”

“People haven’t tried to fight for them?” Kyra asked.

“They used to try,” Azure answered. “After losing three 10000 soul armies they got the message.”

Most of the party gasped in shock. Azure snacked on a fish as they processed just how powerful and destructive their new lord was. If any of them had second thoughts about their arrangements with Jim and Azure, those doubts were put to rest. Blue Ridge was as peaceful a place as could be found in Praha, if not all Stormgion itself.

“I’m sure the elves would not like for them to be logged,” Eloise said.

“Would you allow some of the trees to be logged out lord Azure?” Remi asked. Ari frowned at the question. Azure laughed.

“Ariana, do you not like this idea?”

“No. It doesn’t feel right.”

“That is your elven heritage talking to you,” Azure replied. “Trust that I know what is best for the land and would not allow it to come to harm.”

“I do,” Ari replied. “And I don’t know why.”

“Perhaps it is your heritage talking,” Remi said.

“Indeed,” Azure agreed. “To answer your question, I would allow a few trees to be harvested if it is profitable enough and the trees are dying or need to be removed so that more of the forests thrive.”

“You wish to manage the forest, yet profit from it,” Jim said.

“Indeed. The elves understand the need almost as much as I do, so they support the limited harvesting I allow.”

“You’ve already had some of the trees harvested, haven’t you?” Ari asked.

“And the logs are stored in the warehouse or a cave,” Jim concluded.

“Correct,” Azure replied with another rumbling laugh. “One of the junipers that was harvested last winter was 2000 years old. Lightning had struck it during a storm last fall.”

“How much of that tree is left?” Eloise asked.

“Two thirds, so roughly 40 feet of a 300-inch circumference tree. It weighed almost ten tons when it was harvested.”

Leo whistled. “Now that was a tree.”

“How much would you want for what is left of it?” Kyra asked. Azure laughed again.

“Jim, shouldn’t you be asking these questions?” the dragon asked before striking at a large shadow that was swimming beside him. The others gasped at how quickly the dragon attacked the fish. After he finished chewing, Azure said, “Salmon are delicious.”

Jim shook his head and shrugged. “I don’t mind others asking questions instead of me having to do so.”

“Interesting. That lets you appear disinterested if you wish.”

“Yep,” Jim agreed throwing the dragon a two-finger salute after tapping his head. A man arrived holding a small, straight, partially shaved branch.

“The juniper branch you requested, my lord.”

“Thank you, George. George, allow me to introduce you to our newest residents,” Azure said. He made introductions as the branch was passed around. Nobody questioned how George knew to bring a branch of the juniper tree since they remembered Azure’s mental magic. “George is an excellent carpenter.”

“Are you now?” Jim asked.

“I have a fair amount of skill and experience, Mr Merchant.”

“Call me Jim.”

“And you can call me George. I expect we may have business to discuss soon,” the carpenter replied looking at the gap in the stone wall.

“Perhaps you’re right.”

“Jim?”

“Yes dear?”

“I would love to have part of the juniper used for our home and shop instead of just selling it all,” Ari said as she held the branch. Jim Appraised the branch.

{Ancient Juniper Branch Value 10 Silvers True Worth 1 Silver}

Jim smiled at Ari. Jim thought the branch would make an excellent cane. “So would I.”

“Excellent,” Azure said. “I will be fair and only charge you 25 gold for the remainder of the tree.”

“How is that fair? I haven’t had a chance to Appraise the tree yet.”

“Didn’t you Appraise the branch?” Azure asked with a dragon grin on his face. George gawked at Jim. He had never seen anyone reject one of Azure’s offers before.

“I did. But how do I know the rest of the tree is the same quality? You did say it had been struck by lightning.”

“That is true. I will let you see the tree if you insist, but the rest of it is the same quality,” Azure replied. “This is what I like about you, Jim. You are not afraid to argue and negotiate with me. Nor are you afraid of attacking from directions others wouldn’t consider.”

“Thank you. I’ll go 15 gold without looking at the tree.”

“But we both know Ariana will get what she wants especially since you agreed with her. I won’t take less than 25 gold for it. Besides, I did do a lot more work on your new home than I originally agreed to do.”

“Jim sweetie, he’s got you there,” Ari said. Jim smiled while the others laughed, and George nervously chuckled along. “Pay our new lord what he wants.”

“Yeah, he does,” Jim agreed. “Alright.” Jim walked to old pier and set 25 gold coins on it. The coins disappeared into Azure’s inventory.

“Thank you. George, talk business with Jim and make sure your price is fair,” Azure said as he lifted off from the lake and flew back toward his lair.

“Well, Jim, let’s take a look at what you folks need doing and what can be done,” George said.

Chapter 104

“How are we going to get to the second floor?” Ariana asked after her and Jim showed George what they wanted done in the shop front.

“We’ll use my ladder,” the carpenter replied pulling one out of his inventory bag and leaned it, so the top was in the upstairs doorway. “You may want to go up last since you’re wearing a dress though.”

“True,” Ari agreed while her cheeks turned red. “Why don’t you go first, George?”

“Don’t mind if I do,” George replied and climbed the ladder while Jim held a foot against the bottom of it. “Thanks Jim, but that’s not necessary.”

“You’re welcome,” Jim replied with a nod. Jim gestured to the ladder. “Ladies first.”

“You just want to look up my dress.”

“You wound me!” Jim said playfully holding a hand over his heart. Ari lightly slapped his shoulder. “I give you my word that I will not look.”

“Ok,” Ari replied after a few seconds of thought. She grabbed the ladder.

“Besides,” Jim whispered, “I’ve already seen it all.”

“Idiot!” Ari hissed with her face turning a darker shade of red as she punched his shoulder.

“Ouch!” Jim said rubbing his shoulder.

“That’s what you get for that comment,” Ari said as she climbed the ladder with a small smile on her face. Jim kept his word and didn’t peek.

George stuck his head out. He grunted when he saw Ariana climbing up. “Was wondering what was taking so long.”

“Just a little teasing and disagreement,” Jim called up. Ari nodded in agreement. George shrugged. Jim joined them a couple minutes later. Azure had only done the upstairs hallway and kitchen floors in stone. The rest of the upstairs floors would have to be built using wood.

“Do you want to use the juniper for the floors?” the carpenter asked.

“No,” Ari said after a moment. “It would be lovely, but let’s just use it for some furniture. Jim can sell the rest”

“Do you agree?” George asked Jim.

Jim took Ariana’s hand. “This is to be our home. If that is what my lady wants, it’s fine with me.”

George grunted. “Smart man. I meant no disrespect lass and apologize if you feel I was disrespecting you. Most men don’t see things the way Jim does and demand to make all the decisions.”

“And you don’t know us,” Ari concluded.

“Exactly.”

“I’m not offended and thank you for the apology.”

“Good. Now that we have that behind us, what do you recommend for the floors and stairs?” Jim asked.

“Oak. We have several cut up into boards in the warehouse.”

“Is that what most people have used?” Ari asked.

“Yes. A couple of your new neighbors are highly skilled in logging and splitting wood.”

“I haven’t seen a mill, nor did Azure mention one,” Jim said.

“As I said, we have some skilled workers here,” George replied with a smile. “We do have a mill down the valley past the pastureland though.”

“You almost had me there,” Ariana replied.

“Me too,” Jim admitted. George’s smile grew.

“Do you want cabinets for the kitchen?”

“Yes. How about using some of the juniper for them?” Jim asked.

“I guess,” Ari said with a shrug. She smiled and Jim knew it was the right choice. He was looking forward to the juniper, which is why he suggested it.

“Doors?” George asked.

“We’ll get back to you on that,” Ari replied. “It is just the two of us.”

“You think your guards will want to stay below ground mostly?”

“Yeah, at least for a few weeks except when working,” Ariana answered.

“I think we will want one for our bedroom, the bathroom, and the back deck Azure made for us.”

“Makes sense.”

“Ok. Just go ahead and do doors for all the rooms,” Ari added. George and Jim both smiled.

“Could you add to the overhang Azure left in the shopfront?”

“Yeah. Why?”

“A loft and reading area,” Jim answered. “With a rail or half wall so people in the shop can’t see upstairs.”

“Can do,” George replied. They descended the ladder and the carpenter returned it to his inventory. They walked to the back and below the deck. “That is one big doorway his lordship left. Do you want two doors or one huge one?”

“Two,” Jim answered. George nodded and made a note in the notebook Jim had given him along with the others he had jotted down. Jim had also given him a copper pen.

“I love these things just after using them a few minutes,” George said. “How much do I owe you for them?”

“We’ll take it off your price,” Jim answered. “They are both a silver each.”

“Fair enough,” George replied. “It’ll take us three weeks to a month to finish what you want done.

Jim and Ariana shrugged. “Ok. How much are you thinking of charging?”

“Keep in mind that we still need the dock, pier, or whatever it is called redone as well as work to the boathouse and stable. Oh, and the gate too,” Ari added as Jim smiled. “That should be another month’s work or so.”

George smiled, but it didn’t have the humor in it his earlier smiles did. “Let’s go take a look at those things before I quote you a price.”

“Ok,” Jim agreed.

Half an hour later, George was furiously writing down what needed doing and trying to figure up a price. The carpenter finished and looked up nervously at Ariana and Jim. “We can start in two days and do the work for 50 silvers.”

Jim almost laughed out loud until he remembered how little most people made. He noticed Ari looked shocked and guessed she thought the price high.

“That’s a little…” Ari started.

“I promise that you will be pleased with our work and that it will be worth the price,” George interrupted her.

“I will accept that price and won’t Haggle or Barter with you,” Jim said. “In fact, if you and your crew exceed Ariana’s and my expectations, I’ll give you a bonus. If you can do the work in less than two months, I’ll give another bonus.”

George’s eyes widened to the point Jim thought they might fall out of his head. “Are you serious?”

“He is,” Ari answered for Jim. Jim just nodded his head.

“We’ll be here an hour after sunrise in two days then,” George replied as he started shaking hands with them both. He had not expected the merchant to agree to his price and was giddy that he had.

“Jim!”

“Yeah?” he called out to Rhett.

“I think it’s time for you to open shop,” the guard called out.

“What makes you say that?” Jim asked as the three of them joined the guards out front of the new building. “Oh,” Jim said as he saw the large crowd standing out front.

Chapter 105

“Gladys, Rose, Prissy, what are you three doing out here?” George asked three elderly women at the front of the gathered villagers.

“I came to ask the guards what the merchant had,” Gladys answered.

“I came to find out as well,” Prissy said.

“I couldn’t very well let these two know something I didn’t, so I joined them, Rose added. Leo laughed. “What’s so funny boy?”

“Nothing ma’am,” Leo replied fighting the grin on his face. Eloise and Remi laughed at him.

Jim pulled out his table and chair. He sat and pulled out his notebook and pen. “Raise your hands if you just want to know what I have.”

Two thirds of the hands shot up.

“Ok. I’ll make a couple of copies of my goods list and include prices for you to read.”

“We’ll drop them off at the tavern,” Remi added. “So, you can read them there at your leisure.”

A few of the people started walking to the tavern. Remi nodded at Jim.

“How many of you want healing supplies?” Jim asked. Half the remaining hands shot up.

“Is anyone in dire need of a healing potion?” Ari asked. Nobody in the crowd answered in the affirmative.

“Then we will start selling that tomorrow morning,” Jim said.

“Jim, I’m heading home,” George said. “If you’ve got beef or bison, save me some.

“Alright. See you in two days and I’ll make sure to save you some,” Jim replied. “Oh yeah, here,” Jim said pulling out 25 silvers and offering them to the carpenter.

“What’s this?”

“Half up front, and I’ll pay the rest when you’re done.”

“That…thank you,” George replied taking the money and leaving.

“You have a soft heart,” Ari whispered with a smile on her face. Jim winked at her.

“If anyone is looking for fabric, metals, hides, spices, and other general goods, those will be sold tomorrow as well.”

“Satisfied?” Rhett asked the three older women still standing there.

“Yes,” they said in unison and walked off. The rest of the crowd dispersed after that, except for three dwarves.

“What do you fellows need?” Eloise asked them.

“It’s not what we need so much as what we can offer,” the oldest of them said. Jim looked up at that from where he was copying his list.

“And what can you offer?” Remi asked.

“This,” the older one answered pulling a rock from his inventory. “I don’t know if it would be much good to you, but I thought we would offer.”

“Is that marble?” Jim asked seeing the white hunk of stone in the dwarf’s hand.

“Aye. You have good eyes,” he replied.

“Go look at the rock. I’ll make the second copy and finish this one,” Ari told Jim.

“Thanks,” Jim replied standing up and kissing Ari. He walked over to the dwarves as Ari sat and started on the list.

“Your penmanship is a mess,” Ari muttered.

“I heard that.”

“I was counting on it,” Ari replied without looking up. Jim turned and saw that her lips were curved up. He shook his head as the dwarves chuckled.

“She reminds me of my wife,” the older one said. Eloise and Remi glared at him. He grinned. “So do you two.”

Jim and the others laughed, including the sisters. “I’m Jim Merchant, let me see that,” Jim said holding out a hand. The dwarf sat the piece of marble in his hand. “What is your name sir?”

“Dave Pitt, and these two are my two younger brothers, Mitch and Wayne,” Dave replied indicating each brother. “We’re miners, but mostly work the quarry.”

“There’s a marble quarry?” Jim asked Appraising the rock in his hand.

{White Marble 1 pound Value 1 Silver True Worth 50 Coppers}

“Mr Pitt, do you have someone that can cut or shape the marble?”

“I might,” the miner answered rubbing his beard. “Why do you ask?”

“I’m thinking about wash basins and bathtubs,” Jim answered.

“Hmmm. My wife and her brother can do some shaping.”

“Shaping?”

“Jim, dwarven stone workers don’t just work stone, they mold it to their will,” Rhett told him. “We’re not as good or as efficient as dragons, but we’re no slouches either.”

“Mr Pitt, would you and your brothers like to have a seat and something to drink while we discuss business?” Jim asked with a gleam in his eyes.

“Call me Dave,” the miner replied with a gleam in his own eyes. “And we would love to sit and have something to drink.”

“And you can call me Jim.”

*

“Why marble washbasins and tubs?” Abel asked as they sat down to supper.

“Enchanted luxury goods.”

“How would they be considered luxury goods?” Kyra asked.

“On earth, marble is a very expensive stone used for countertops, desktops, floors, bathtubs, basins, and other things. I’m not sure how rare it is here, but I haven’t seen any marble goods anywhere we have been.”

“We’ve mostly been to small villages,” Ariana said with a smile on her face. “Those generally aren’t the places to find luxury goods.”

“Aye, you’re right lass. That said, Jim does have a point. The wealthy and nobles will pay a lot for something that sets them apart from the common folk.”

Jim laughed.

“What’s funny lad?”

“I hope that the Pitts will not only craft the basins and tubs for me, but also for everyone else in the village or I can sell the basins and tubs to them,” Jim replied. “I was thinking of charging at least 25 silvers per basin and 50 silvers per tub to the wealthy. Not sure how much to charge to the villagers.”

“And you would want me to enchant them for the villagers for a modest fee,” Kyra concluded. “You should also charge twice that to the wealthy, if not more depending on the weight of the marble and craftsmanship.”

“That’s an excellent point.”

“But if I’m enchanting, I’m not learning smithing.”

“Aye. You would be taking my apprentice from me if she is spending most days enchanting,” Able replied. Eloise and Remi exchanged a look and nodded to each other.

“We could help,” Eloise said. Everyone looked at her.

“What are you saying lass?”

“I wouldn’t mind learning how to enchant since we are safe here in Blue Ridge. That’s if Jim doesn’t mind since I’m employed by him.”

“And I could help you in the smithy like I did as a child,” Remi added.

“Abel’s face broke into a huge smile. “I would like that. Kyra is a great apprentice and will go far, but a parent loves it when their child wants to follow in their footsteps.”

“What brought this on?” Ari asked.

“We’ve been thinking about the future,” Remi answered.

“Jim hasn’t talked to us, but it seems clear he seems intent to expand what he is doing and setting up a base of operations here,” Eloise added.

“He hasn’t shared everything with me, but he is,” Ari replied.

“I haven’t shared everything because I’ve been letting things come to me more than just plan things out. It’s not the best business strategy by any means, but it seems to be working for us so far,” Jim said and shrugged. “Sometimes it pays to be more lucky than good.”

“Is it too late to quit?” Leo asked while grinning.

“Yep. Your butt is mine.”

“Ahem.”

“Right. Your butt is Eloise’s,” Jim corrected to laughter from the others. After the laughter died, he continued, “I don’t mind if you want to learn additional skills and put them to work. We’ll do separate contracts for that unless you want to strike out on your own.”

“We’ll stay with you,” Remi said after exchanging another look with her sister and getting a nod in return. “What about the guard contract we have?”

“Hopefully I can find more guards if you want to stop doing guard work. As for the pay and contract, we can use what I’ve paid you as a base for whatever we work out for the craftwork you do.”

“That’s more than fair,” Eloise replied. She turned to Kyra. “Do you mind teaching me?”

“No,” Kyra replied with a smile of her own. “I’ll be glad to teach you. That way you can enchant these basins and tubs while I keep learning smithing!” The others laughed.

“That’s settled for now. Let’s eat,” Ari urged.

Chapter 106

“You want 50 boxes with this spinner in them and 50 with a rotating drum?” Brantley asked. He was Blue Ridge’s blacksmith and currently examining two boxes like Jim was asking him to make.

“Yep,” Jim answered.

“What are they for and why can’t your blacksmith make them?”

“Abel is working on other projects,” Jim replied. “The boxes are for washing and drying laundry.”

“How?” the smith asked. He wasn’t as antagonistic as he had been and seemed intrigued.

“If you have some laundry that needs doing, I can show you,” Jim replied. Brantley shook his head no. “But basically, the one with the spinner is a washer. Water fills the box along with whatever soap the user wants to use. They will press the rune to start the process and the spinner will turn the clothes or whatever in it. It’ll stop after the laundry is clean.”

“I think I see what you mean. What about the other one?”

“That one is a dryer. You put the wet laundry in it and close the lid. Press the start rune and it spins the clothes while generating an air flow.”

“And that will dry laundry?”

“Yep.”

“How can you be so sure?”

“We’ve tested them.”

“And they work?”

“Yes. They worked very well,” Jim answered. Brantley looked interested now. He tapped the washer with a hand.

“This is aluminum.”

“Yep. Enchanted and with few moving parts, it lets me keep the costs down.”

“So, you can maximize your profit.”

“No. I wanted the costs down so I can charge less per m…box,” Jim replied. He had almost slipped up and said machine. “Depending on how much you charge me to make the boxes is what I’ll base my price for the completed unit on.”

“I suppose you will want them as soon as possible?”

“Yep. I really want at least half of each when I leave to go get the bison that Azure, and I want.”

Brantley frowned at the mention of Azure’s name. He then looked over the dryer once more. “Yes, I’m sure our lord is looking forward to having bison available year-round.”

“Anyway. How much are you thinking you want for building my boxes?” Jim asked.

“It’s aluminum and a simple construction. I’ll charge you 25 coppers for each one.”

“Make it an even 2 gold for all of them and I’ll give you these two,” Jim replied. He Appraised both and smiled. Brantley was charging five coppers less than what it cost for Abel to build the first six he had. As always, the enchanting was the largest cost. Jim knew he could charge less and would probably do so to the poorer people that wanted the enchanted machines.

{Washer Value 25 Silvers True Worth 1 Silver}

{Dryer Value 25 Silvers True Worth 1 Silver}

Brantley smiled. “If you show me how to work them, we have a deal. They’ll make a nice gift for my wife.”

Jim laughed and shook the man’s hand. “Yeah, I can see that,” Jim said thinking about the stories he had heard of men giving their wives appliances as presents. “Here is your two gold,” Jim said handing the money over to the smith. He wrote out a contract and made a copy. Both signed them. Jim gave the copy to Brantley.

“I’ll get started on these this afternoon. I’m hoping my assistants and I can do four a day to start and ramp up production from there.

Jim pointed to a rune on the washer. “Alright. This rune starts the water cycle.”

*

“Good to see you again Dave,” Jim greeted the miner. He nodded at his brothers. “Mitch, Wayne, you as well.” Rhett greeted the other dwarves as well. The miners nodded back and returned the greetings. “Your message said you had something to show me.”

“We do indeed. Come this way,” Dave said. Jim, Rhett, and Dave followed Dave’s brothers into a cave.

“This is where our stone shapers work,” Wayne informed Jim. Jim smiled as he started to get an idea of what the miners wanted to show him.

“Jim, Rhett, this is my wife, Molly,” Dave introduced the men to his wife. “Molly, this is the new merchant, Jim, and his guard, Rhett.”

“Nice to meet you both,” Molly said.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you,” Jim and Rhett replied.

“Well, let’s not waste time. Molly dear, why don’t you show these gentlemen what you and your brother created?”

“It’ll be my pleasure,” the dwarven woman replied moving to where something was covered by a tarp. She pulled the tarp off a marble tub. The tub was half an oval with a flat bottom, so it didn’t move. “Is something like this what you had in mind?”

“It’s beautiful,” Jim said as he ran a hand across the smooth surface of the tub. He smiled and turned to Rhett. “What do you think?”

“I think we need to get Kyra to enchant it so we can try this tub out!” Rhett replied. The dwarves laughed.

“You want to enchant it?” Molly asked.

“Yes. I want it to be able to have cool water or hot water depending on what a person prefers. A third rune would then drain the water when you’re done,” Jim answered.

“We have a rectangular one too,” another male voice said.

“Jim, Rhett, this is Molly’s brother Milton,” Dave said introducing his brother-in-law. Greetings were exchanged.

“How much marble did it take to create each tub?” Rhett asked.

“Both are roughly the same size and weigh 100 pounds,” Milton answered.

“If we were less skilled, they would have weighed more,” Molly informed the men. “Milton, show them the basin.”

“Ok,” her brother said and pulled a large marble bowl from behind the tub and handed it to Rhett.

“That has some heft to it,” Rhett said.

“About 25 pounds,” Milton replied. The basin was a smaller version of the tub.

“How much would you charge to shape a bunch of these?” Jim asked as they showed him the square tub.

“You’ve agreed to pay 50 coppers per pound of marble,” Dave said. He turned to his wife. “Molly, this is your work. What do you think would be a fair price?”

“Jim was thinking 50 silvers per tub if I recall correctly,” Mitch said. “And 25 silvers for a basin.”

“Yeah, I was,” Jim admitted.

“It’s not hard work and we both love being able to use our skill for more than shaping rooms, shoring up mine shafts, or making small carvings,” Milton said.

“Keep in mind that this might turn into a long-term deal if Jim’s hunch is correct,” Rhett told the other dwarves. Jim punched his shoulder.

“Whose side are you on?” Jim asked the guard. Rhett just grinned in answer. Molly and Milton talked quietly for a few moments.

“We’ll charge you 10 silvers per tub and 5 per basin,” Molly finally said. “And then you’re paying my husband and his brothers 50 coppers per pound for the marble itself.”

Jim shrugged. He knew he could charge twice what he had originally been thinking or even a few gold coins if this worked like he thought it would. “That’s fair. I accept your price if you’ll give me these three. I’ll need at least 10 more of each as well.”

The other dwarves exchanged looks and nodded to each other. Dave spoke for his group. “We have a deal.”

“Here is 15 gold up front,” Jim said taking out the coin and setting it on a table. He wrote out a contract and a copy of it. He signed each. Dave and Molly signed as well. Molly took their copy.

“Let’s get these to Kyra,” Rhett said with a smile on his face. The square tub disappeared into his inventory.

“Just a moment,” Jim said. He sketched out a sink with cabinets on each side. He pointed to it. “I think this one will be really popular here in the village.”

“What makes you say that?” Molly asked as she looked at the drawing. “And it sits in between cabinets?”

“They’re two to three feet long and about 18 inches deep and wide. That’s a lot of room to wash dishes or a baby in. And yeah, they sit in cabinets instead of on them,” Jim answered. “Even if you don’t think they would be popular and don’t want to make them, I want one for myself.”

“Ahem,” Rhett coughed.

“Make that two,” Jim said. Rhett and the other dwarves grinned.

“We’ll get started tomorrow morning.”

“Sounds good,” Jim said as he added the oval tub and basin to his inventory.

Chapter 107

“Is there anything else you would like?” Jim asked the villager.

“Half a bushel of strawberries, a pound of black pepper, and half a bushel of potatoes,” the woman answered.

“That will be another 2 silvers and 50 coppers,” Jim replied.

“Fair enough,” the woman replied handing Jim the coin.

“Thank you for your business,” Jim said.

“Thank you too,” the woman said and walked off with her purchases. Jim collapsed into his chair. Kayja walked over and nudged his hand. She sat as Jim started to absently rub her behind her ears.

“I’m beat baby girl,” Jim told his wolf. Kayja just cocked her head to get Jim’s hand to rub where she wanted. “I’ve never stayed on my feet for so long or dealt with so many people in one day.”

“I think the villagers really missed having a merchant,” Ari said as she joined Jim. “Sit up.”

“Why?”

“You’ll see,” Ariana replied. Jim complied and Ari started rubbing his shoulders.

“That feels great!”

“I thought you would like a massage. Don’t stop rubbing Kayja,” Ari said noticing that Jim’s hand had stopped rubbing his wolf. Jim started rubbing the wolf in time with Ari’s efforts.

“Do you have any food left?” Eloise asked as her and Kyra joined them. Leo and Rhett laughed. “What’s so funny?”

“Jim sold so much he probably doesn’t know what he has left,” Leo answered.

“I might have a third of the fruit, vegetables, bison, and spices left. I still have all of the fish I bought,” Jim said.

“What about the chicken and pork?” Rhett asked. “I never noticed if anyone bought any of it.”

“Still have all of it. They have pigs and chickens,” Jim answered.

“What about the potions?” Ari asked.

“I sold all of the minor health potions and most of the regular ones. Same for the salves and poultices.”

“Maybe they just wanted to stock up,” Remi said as her and Able walked up.

“Or were afraid we wouldn’t stick around despite the new construction,” Abel mused.

“Didn’t you sell all of the Maiden’s Milk and Stallion’s Blood?” Leo asked.

“Yeah. They went the quickest,” Jim answered. This made the others laugh.

“Jim traded for a lot of furs, metals, and pelts,” Rhett told the others.

“That shouldn’t be surprising. Most of the villagers don’t have hard coin,” Abel replied.

“Indeed,” Azure agreed as his head surfaced from the lake making the group jump and sent Kayja running off to the wagon.

“Give us all heart attacks, why don’t you?” Jim complained as he sat back down. Ari put her hands back on his shoulders. Azure laughed. “I hope Kayja will be alright.”

“She’s a wolf. She’ll be fine,” Azure assured Jim. “The villagers will have more coin as Jim buys their wares to trade with the lowlanders.”

“Lowlanders?” Kyra asked. “That’s the first time I’ve heard that term used.”

“It’s what folks that live in the high-country call those of you that live in the plains and along the coast,” Azure replied.

“That does make sense,” Kyra said. “Would we be considered lowlanders still?”

“Probably,” Eloise answered.

“We’re strangers still,” Remi added.

“Indeed,” Azure agreed.

“That will change in time,” Abel said.

“Yep,” Jim and Ari agreed.

“Jim, we’re calling it a day,” George called out. “Is the way clear?”

“Yeah, it’s clear.”

“I’ve only ever seen the village gathered like that at festivals or when our lord commands it,” the carpenter stated as he and his helpers exited the shop. “We’ll have your outside doors and window shutters up tomorrow. Oh! Good evening my lord.”

“Good evening, George. Doing well?”

“Yes. We completed half of the floor for one of the upstairs rooms today.”

“Very good.”

“Yep. Good job,” Jim agreed.

“Thank you. Well, we’re going. It’s time for supper,” George said as he and his crew started walking away.

“Most of the villagers are frightened of you,” Ariana said after the carpenter and his crew were out of earshot.

“Why should Jim scare them? He’s only a merchant,” Azure asked with a dragon grin on his face. The others laughed. “But yes, most of the villagers fear me,” Azure said just before darting his head underwater and coming up with a fish as large as a dwarf. The dragon swallowed it whole.

“I think I have a good idea why,” Jim said. The others nodded in agreement. Azure chuckled.

“Perhaps I do play some things up a bit much,” Azure conceded. “Perhaps, you lot will have some positive influence on our village and help people see that I’m not so frightful.”

“Maybe,” Ari agreed.

“Speak for yourself,” Leo said. “He didn’t just swallow a fish as large as you are.”

“I promise I would not eat you or any other dwarf unless they were attacking the village or myself.”

“We appreciate that,” Abel replied.

“Jim, why do you think the marble tubs and wash basins would sell?” Azure asked changing the subject. Jim explained his reasoning citing how marble was treated as a luxury item on earth. “Interesting. But the villagers already have ceramic wash basins and dishes.”

“Wait. Really?”

“Yes. They are made with clay, quartz, and silica mined from the north side of the lake.”

“How much of those materials are there?”

“Enough for a few centuries of production. That is what you’re thinking, isn’t it?”

“Yeah.”

“Finely made ceramics sell for a lot,” Ariana said.

“That they do, lass,” Abel added.

“Are there any experts that can make ceramics in the village?” Jim asked.

“Three. Gladys, Prissy, and Rose are the ones you need to speak with. They have been training youngsters when someone shows interest or wants new items of their own, but they are masters of their craft.”

“Would they be willing to work with Jim?” Remi asked beating the others from asking the same thing.

“For the right deal,” Azure answered. “Gladys had a deal with your predecessor to supply some pieces every so often.”

“Interesting. Thanks.”

“You’re welcome. Have a good evening,” the dragon replied and dived back under the water.

“This place is all but a gold mine,” Rhett said into the silence as Azure swam away. “I wonder if Azure stopped trade or if there was another reason the village isn’t more prosperous.”

“I wouldn’t be surprised if there is a gold mine up here somewhere,” Remi replied leaning into her husband. Rhett put an arm around her.

“Aye. If there is, it’s probably where Azure has made his lair,” Abel said.

“Well, there goes the fantasy of getting rich quick,” Leo said.

“It’s ok honey, we have our family and friends,” Eloise told her husband taking his hand.

“Anyone want to go talk to the three old ladies for me tomorrow?” Jim asked.

“No.”

“Nope.”

“Busy tomorrow.”

“Got armor to make.”

“Got to help make armor and enchant it.”

“You’re the merchant.”

“Sorry baby. I need to make more potions and salves.”

“Figures all of you would say something along those lines,” Jim muttered. He spoke up. “Too bad for you, Leo and Rhett. You’re going with me to talk to them.”

“What?”

“Why?”

“You’re my guards and I might need the protection,” Jim replied with a grin.

“Take the wolves.”

“No way! That would be cruelty to animals,” Jim retorted.

“But what about cruelty to guards?” Leo asked.

“Jim, he’s got a point,” Rhett said.

“Nope. There’s no such thing,” Jim replied. “You’ll just have to suck it up.”

“I think I’m feeling sick tomorrow,” Leo said.

“It’s a good thing I can make a potion to make you feel better then,” Ari replied to laughter from the others.

Chapter 108

“I can’t believe you dragged me with you to do this,” Leo muttered. “We should have brought the others or at least the wolves. I need hazard pay for this too!”

“Do what?”

“You’ll see.”

“Good morning, ladies,” Jim called out in greeting to the three older women Azure had recommended and ignoring Leo’s complaining as they approached the house the trio of women were in front of. Gladys, Prissy, and Rose glanced up and collectively frowned when their eyes fell on Jim. Gladys and Prissy started to turn away. Rose’s eyes shifted to Leo, she stood up straighter, and smiled.

“The merchant has the cute one with him,” Rose whispered. Gladys and Prissy turned and saw Leo. They grinned and cackled.

“I see what you mean,” Jim said giving Leo a side eye look. “Perhaps we should have brought Eloise with us.”

“That would have been bad.”

“Why?”

“Eloise can be quite jealous and possessive. Even to those she has no reason to worry about like these three. They’re old enough to be my grandmothers.”

“Don’t like older women?”

“Nope. My wife is all I want or need.”

“Smart man,” Jim replied as they stopped in front of the women. “Once again, good morning, ladies.”

“What’s so good about it?” Prissy asked not taking her eyes off Leo.

Jim gestured to their surroundings. “We’re alive and in some of the most beautiful mountain terrain I’ve ever seen.”

“I suppose you’re right,” Rose conceded. “Though once you’ve lived here as long as we have, you’ll not see it either.”

“Or when winter hits, it snows, and the temperature drops,” Gladys added. She winked at Leo. “That’s when you’ll want someone young and strapping to cuddle up with.”

Leo coughed.

“Are you alright dear boy? Could I get you some tea, water, or something stronger?” Prissy asked.

“Perhaps rub your back,” Gladys added.

“I’m fine, ma’am,” Leo quickly replied.

“I think I’ll enjoy the winter here,” Jim said to get the conversation away from Leo.

“Perhaps you’re right. Though that elf girl of yours is a tad too skinny, if you ask me,” Rose replied.

“Yes, well…”

“What do you want?” Gladys asked. “You didn’t come to gift us your sweet guard.”

“Azure…” Jim started and stopped as the three women frowned. He started again, “I’ve been informed that there is excellent clay and other materials used to make outstanding ceramics and pottery. Lord Azure told me you three were the ones to see about ceramics and that Gladys had a deal with my predecessor.”

“Aye. I did.”

“And I suppose you want us to make things for you,” Prissy said.

“Actually, I want you three to teach others and oversee them while they do the actual work. I will pay you and purchase anything you make that you want to sell.”

“Interesting,” Rose replied. She pointed at Leo and grinned. “Is that pretty one part of this deal?”

“Ah, no,” Leo quickly answered. “I’m a married man and don’t want my wife killing me or any one of you three.”

“Ha! She can try. While older, we are wiser and more cunning than a mere slip of a girl like your wife,” Rose said. She winked at Leo. “We can teach you a thing or three as well.”

“Aye, that we can,” Prissy agreed winking at Leo and gesturing to her breasts.

“Stop it you two old crones,” Gladys told her friends. “You’re scaring the poor boys.”

“That be a good thing. He’ll listen to instructions easier,” Prissy retorted.

“Don’t mind them,” Gladys told Leo and Jim. “If you come into my home, we can negotiate things in private.”

“I’m afraid I’ll have to decline,” Jim replied.

“Not you! Him,” Gladys said pointing at Leo.

“Quite right,” Rose agreed. “Then you can do the same with me.”

“Or all three of us at once,” Prissy added.

“Ah… Jim, how about a little help?”

Jim was trying hard not to laugh. He coughed to cover up a laugh that escaped. “Ladies, please. My guards are not for rent, loan, or sale. Nor will I give one away.”

“Pity,” Gladys replied. “Then coin it is. I will not take less than one silver per item I craft.”

“Same for us,” Rose said.

“Depending on your work, that is acceptable,” Jim replied.

“What do you have in mind?” Prissy asked. “Is it figurines you’re after?”

“Wash basins, plates, bowls, and such,” Jim answered.

“Practical,” Rose replied.

“Do you want them decorated or just colored?” Gladys asked.

“Perhaps both depending on what you want to do. You wouldn’t happen to have an example I could see do you?”

“Just a moment,” Gladys replied and went into her home. A moment later she returned holding a white bowl.

She handed the bowl to Jim. The inside of the bowl was a blue color that matched the lake’s waters with wave like patterns. He Appraised it.”

{Wave Pattern Ceramic Bowl Value 10 Silvers True Worth 2 Silvers}

Jim did his best to control his facial features. He feared he failed. Handing the bowl to Leo, Jim said, “This is beautiful.”

“Aye. This would fetch a good price in Diamond Shoals, Raven’s Rest, or most any other village or town,” Leo agreed handing the bowl back to Gladys.

“Celeste, your predecessor, always gave me a silver for such bowls.”

“I would gladly give you two silvers for that bowl,” Jim replied. All three women looked shocked at that statement. “What? It’s true and the bowl is worth that much.”

“You have a high ranked Inspect skill,” Rose said. It wasn’t a question.

“No. I have the Appraise skill,” Jim admitted. The three women looked shocked for a moment and then nodded. “Could I see examples of what you two can do as well?”

“Yes,” Rose replied and headed into her home. Prissy did likewise without a word. Both returned a couple of minutes later.

Rose handed Jim a green plate with a leaf pattern. The leaves on the other edge of the plate were not painted but engraved. The craftsmanship was the equal to Gladys’.

{Leaf Pattern Ceramic Plate Value 10 Silvers True Worth 2 Silvers}

Prissy handed Jim a painted rabbit figurine as he handed the plate to Leo. While not a bowl or plate, the craftsmanship was the equal to the others.

{Rabbit Ceramic Figurine Value 10 Silvers True Worth 2 Silvers}

“My skill shows me that you three are equals and so is your work,” Jim said handing the figure to Leo.

Leo was still fingering the rabbit when he asked, “Would you sell this to me?”

“Yes,” Prissy answered. She turned to Jim. “How much could you sell the rabbit for?”

“Ten silvers, maybe more depending on the person. It’s worth is two silvers though.”

“Give me five silvers and the rabbit is yours,” Prissy told Leo. “You want to give it to your wife, so you’ll pay for that.”

“Sure,” Leo said handing over the coin.

“I won’t sell you my plate since it’s part of a set,” Rose said.

“Nor I for the same reason,” Gladys added.

“That’s fine,” Jim replied. “How long does it take to make something like these figurines, plates, and bowls?”

“About a day,” Prissy replied.

“Then another day to cure or bake,” Gladys added.

“Unless Lord Azure decides to gift us with the use of his fire,” Rose said. Jim looked thoughtful at that statement. “What’s on your mind boy?”

“Jim, not boy please. And I just thought of something I suddenly need to ask Kyra, my enchantress.”

“You want to know if she can enchant something that could hold the essence of dragon fire,” Leo said.

“Yep. That would have to help a lot with ceramics and blacksmithing.”

“If this Kyra could do that, everyone here would love her,” Prissy said.

“Why is that?” Leo asked.

“Nothing heats like dragon fire, you sexy, yet dense pretty boy,” Rose answered and laughed. Leo blushed.

“I should have known that is what you were going to say,” Leo muttered. Jim chuckled and clapped Leo’s shoulder.

“We will have you some samples in a couple of days. Perhaps even a whole set of dishes,” Gladys informed Jim. “Some of the youngsters will get us the materials we need.”

“Thank you. Let’s go talk to Kyra,” Jim told Leo.

“Gladly,” Leo whispered as they turned to leave.

Chapter 109

“Where’s Kyra?” Jim asked Ariana and Rhett when he and Leo returned to the wagons.

“No hello or how are you?” Ari asked and frowned.

“Sorry baby,” Jim replied and pulled Ari into a hug. “Hello, how are you?”

She returned the hug and kissed his cheek. “That’s much better.” She broke the hug by pulling away and returning to whatever she was boiling. She cast a glance at Leo. “I’m good by the way. What’s with Leo?”

“He got hit on a little.”

“Do tell,” Rhett said.

“Jim, please don’t do it,” Leo begged.

“I promise to tell you later, but I really need to ask Kyra something first,” Jim replied. “That will give Leo time to give Eloise his present.”

“Good thinking boss,” Leo said.

“This I got to hear,” Rhett said.

“You’ll hear about it when I do. You’re my guard at the moment,” Ariana stated.

“But you don’t need guards with the wolves around.”

“No buts,” Ariana replied.

“You just don’t want to be the last to find out what happened.”

“Why Rhett, would I ever stoop to making you do your duty to keep you from hearing some gossip before me?”

“Yeah,” the guard replied. The others laughed.

“Kyra and the others are in the basement level starting on the new forge,” Ari said after the laughter died out.

“Thanks, dear,” Jim told Ariana before kissing her. He turned and Leo was already heading into the shop. “I better hurry.”

“Or you could take your time and tell us the story,” Rhett said.

“Nah. I’ll tell it to everyone at lunch,” Jim replied. He turned and headed into the shop.

“Hey George. Hi guys,” Jim said to the carpenter and his workers.

“Hi Jim.”

“Did the three old ones give you any trouble?”

“Nah, they harassed Leo a little though.”

“Better him than me,” one of the assistants said to laughter from the others. Jim laughed as well.

“Chasing him to smooth things over?”

“No. He’s fine even if he’s pretending he’s not. I have a question I need to ask Kyra.”

“Speaking of the enchantress, is she in a relationship with any of you or courting anyone?” George asked.

“Not that I know of,” Jim answered. “I haven’t asked her about her personal life to be honest.”

“Told you Toby,” George told the younger man.

“I’ll, uh, leave you guys to it,” Jim said and started to the stairs. He had no desire to get involved in anyone else’s relationships. Leo was giving Eloise the rabbit figurine when Jim found the others. “I’m glad you guys added lights down here.”

“Ha. We thought about not adding any but decided we should since you might want to visit,” Abel replied.

“With my enhanced senses, I could probably see in the dark as long as it wasn’t pitch black.”

“Probably,” Abel agreed. Eloise and Leo kissed after he gave her the gift. “He’s a good lad.”

“Yeah. He even refused the advances or flirtations of three older women.”

“Did he now? I need to hear this story.”

“At lunch since I’ve promised to tell Ari and Rhett then.”

“Fair enough. What can we do for you?”

“Kyra?”

“Yes Jim?” the enchantress asked from where she was adding a rune of some sort to one of the walls. She walked over to him and Abel.

“Is there a way to enchant something to harness dragon fire?”

“I…a big enough diamond should be able to. Say three carats. Why?” Kyra asked. Jim explained about what the pottery masters said about dragon fire and his idea of using it for the forge.

“Lad, you do dream big. There have long been stories that weapons, and armor made using dragon fire are superior to everything else. It’s supposed to be a lost secret of the Northern Mountain master smiths,” Abel said after Jim finished. “If we could find a stone that large, it would be worth at least 20 gold.”

“Beyond the stone, do you think Azure would agree to test this theory?” Eloise asked. She had her arms around Leo.

“Yeah, I do.”

“Why?” Kyra asked.

“Yeah, I would like to know why as well,” Leo added.

“Because it would help the village.”

“How so lad?”

“A master smith,” Jim started and stopped seeing Abel about to protest. “An expert smith,” Jim tried again. Abel nodded in approval. “An expert smith with a dragon fire forge would mean his or her weapons and armor would be highly sought after even if they were nothing but steel.”

“Aye. That be true once rumors started floating around.”

“But how does that help the village?” Kyra asked.

“More trade coming to the village by those seeking the dragon fire forged weapons and armor,” Eloise guessed. Jim and Abel nodded in agreement.

“Beyond that, we make a dragon fire kiln as well,” Jim said. The others looked slightly confused. “Rose and the others said that Azure’s fire baked or cured their ceramics and pottery much faster than the normal way of doing things.”

“It might also make the items tougher as well. The fire is magical after all,” Abel added.

“Exactly,” Jim agreed.

“This would give the village another revenue stream,” Leo said.

“I get it,” Eloise said. “Pottery, ceramics, the marble, the juniper trees, and whatever else Jim sells all would add to Azure’s treasury since he takes a tax on them. Plus, the villagers then have more hard coin.”

“Which keeps them happy,” Kyra concluded as Leo and Eloise separated.

“Exactly,” Abel replied.

“Ha! The old ladies were wrong, Leo. You’re not just a pretty face.”

“Jim!” Leo shouted waving his arms back and forth.

“What’s this?” Eloise asked turning to glare at Leo. “You’ve been flirting?”

“No dear! I swear!” Leo protested. “Come on, Jim! Tell her please.”

“Oh, will you look at the time? I’m getting hungry. Let’s go get lunch.”

“Jim!” Eloise and Leo both shouted. Abel and Kyra laughed.

“This should be good,” Abel said.

“It’s sort of funny,” Jim replied.

“It’s not funny and it’s why I didn’t want to go with you,” Leo said.

“Let’s go start lunch and Leo and I can tell the tale,” Jim replied. He turned and waved the others to follow him as he headed up the stairs.

Chapter 110

“You want to test if an enchanted diamond can hold my fire?” Azure asked from the lake.

“Yeah,” Jim answered.

“Why?”

“I think it’ll be very beneficial to the village.”

“Please explain,” Azure requested. Jim spent several minutes telling the dragon lord what he had talked over with the others. “Interesting.”

“Would you be willing to test out the theory?”

“Do you have a diamond?”

“No.”

“Then we can’t test this can we?”

“I guess not,” Jim conceded. He looked to the others. “Sorry.”

“Would you sell us a diamond, Lord Azure?” Kyra asked.

The dragon laughed. “Enchanting child, dragons do not part with treasure by selling it.”

Jim, Ariana, and Abel laughed.

“Caught my play on words?” Azure asked.

“Yes.”

“Oh! I get it,” Kyra said chuckling after thinking it over for a moment. The others smiled and shook their heads. Azure caught and ate a fish.

“There might be a way that I will part with a diamond suitable to your needs and be willing to sell another if the test works.”

“What’s the catch?” Jim asked catching the twinkle in the dragon’s large eyes as Azure looked at him.

“I have a feeling I’m not going to like this,” Ari said taking Jim’s right hand in both of hers.

“Perceptive,” Azure said nodding his head at Ariana.

“Now I’m starting to get a bad feeling about this,” Jim muttered.

“And you should,” Azure replied. “What I want to test is your resurrection ability.”

“I don’t want to be eaten or burned alive.”

Azure snapped his jaws and made a dismissing sound. “Nothing so barbaric. I learned a long time ago that humans, elves, dwarves, and other sentient species taste terrible.”

“Uh, yeah.”

“No Jim, what I propose is I take you flying and let you fall…”

“Until I go splat?” Jim concluded as Ari’s grip tightened on his hand.

“Indeed.”

“No!” Ariana said in a quiet voice. Jim did not look at Ariana and kept his eyes on Azure. The dragon’s eyes never left the merchant either.

“I will sweeten my offer. I will give you two pure five carat diamonds in exchange for one death.”

“No!” Ariana said again. “I will not allow this.”

“You cannot break a deal of this sort if Jim accepts,” Azure replied softly.

“Why do you want Jim to do this? Ariana asked in a whisper.

“Because I desire to understand what happens when he resurrects and how.”

“It is not worth it lad,” Abel said. The other dwarves nodded in agreement.

“May I have a moment to talk to Ariana?”

“Of course.”

Jim pulled Ari from the others and walked to the other side of the shop.

*

“You will not change my mind,” Ari warned.

“I know.”

“Then why drag me over here?”

“Because I want to explain to you why either decision, I make will be the dumbest of my life.”

“What do you mean?”

“Didn’t you notice the gleam in Azure’s eyes?”

Ari shook her head. “No.”

“He really does want to see what happens.”

“Is he really that cruel?”

“I don’t think so. I think he is really just curious enough to force the issue.”

“You mean by just picking you up and taking flight no matter how you answer because nobody could stop him if he truly wants to do so,” Ari said after a short silence.

“Yep. Azure is a dragon and may have quite different thoughts than us humans and elves. His desire for knowledge may outweigh all other concerns except for treasure. And if he’s going to do it regardless, I would rather get something out of it instead of just losing a level or the coin,” Jim replied pulling Ariana to him and wrapping his arms around her. Ari laid her head on his shoulder.

“I really hate this.”

“So, do I,” Jim said. They stood in silence for several minutes. “If it helps any, I plan on demanding more in trade. My life isn’t that cheap.”

“Jim, those diamonds he offered will be worth a couple hundred gold each, if not more.”

“You think I’m only worth a few hundred gold?” Jim asked in mock seriousness.

“No,” Ari answered while laughing. “You’re worth everything to me.”

“As you are to me.”

“Good. Maybe we can convince Azure to wait to do this until after we are married.”

“You said we had to court for six months before we could get married since you want to stick with elven tradition.”

“Yeah, that’s kind of the point. Hopefully he’ll forget.”

“He wouldn’t forget. But I plan on asking him for things to make a tradition from earth.”

“What tradition?”

“An engagement ring.”

“What’s that?”

“A ring a person gives to the one they want to marry when they ask their intended to marry them.”

“Oh. No culture does that.”

“I know.”

“Then why do you want to do it?”

“I suppose because it is a tradition I grew up with and a part of me likes it.”

“What would you need to make the ring?” Ari asked. She seemed intrigued by the idea, which Jim was thankful for.

“Gold or platinum for the band and a diamond. I’m thinking a quarter or half carat blue diamond to match your eyes,” Jim answered. Ari pulled back and looked him in the eyes.

“That’s too much wealth to wear in public.”

“I don’t think so. Either size diamond is small and not flashy enough to draw too much attention. Besides, platinum isn’t gold, so hopefully wouldn’t draw as much attention. Beyond that, I’ll have Kyra enchant it so only you can remove it.”

“Storage too?”

“That and whatever else you want,” Jim agreed. Ari kissed Jim.

“Fine, go ahead and do it now. I’m going to hide in the wagon as I can’t watch this.”

Jim pulled her into another kiss. After the kiss ended, he said, “I don’t plan on watching either.”

“Going to have your eyes closed?”

“Yep.”

*

Azure grinned. “I agree to your terms.”

“Jim, you’re nuts,” Rhett said.

“He’s not nuts, he’s crazy,” Leo replied.

“This could be an interesting experiment,” Kyra said. Abel shook his head.

“I see I’m not the only one interested in this experiment,” Azure replied.

“I think I’m going to go keep Ari company,” Eloise said.

“I’ll go with you,’ Remi agreed. The sisters walked away.

“I think I’ll go start working on the forge,” Abel said moving away.

“You three are staying?” Azure asked the other dwarves.

“Yep.”

“Of course.”

“Wouldn’t miss this for the world,” Leo replied. Jim glared at his guard. Leo shrugged. “Sorry boss.”

“Ready Jim?”

“Nope,” Jim answered.

“Too bad,” Azure replied launching himself out of the water and grabbing Jim.

“Holy shit!” Jim shouted as the world rapidly receded beneath them.

“Thankfully you haven’t voided your bowels,” Azure said.

“Gee thanks.”

“You’re welcome. Enjoy the view.”

“Would you have done this even if I had said no?”

“I…yes. Knowledge is its own form of treasure. Dragons crave it just as we do material wealth.”

“I was afraid of that.”

“I will uphold our deal and will pay you even more than we agreed.”

“How so? Gold?”

“Don’t be ridiculous. I’ll give you a boon for when you go get the bison.”

“What kind of boon?” Jim asked as he refused to look down.

“An old claw. It will let those you encounter know that you are under my protection.”

“An old claw can do that?”

“For those in authority, yes. I will also watch you to ensure nothing happens to you and those that go with you.”

“Thank you.”

“You’re welcome. We are high enough now,” Azure said. Jim looked down. They were high enough even the trees looked like toys. “I will drop you on a mountain peak so you will not suffer.”

“Thanks,” Jim said. No sooner than the word was out of his mouth, Azure dropped Jim. Jim screamed and pulled up his character sheet as he fell. “Huh. I’ve leveled more than I realized,” Jim said as he assigned his stat points. “I should check my notices more often.”

{

Jim Merchant

Level: 10

Class: Merchant

Health: 200

Stamina: 200

Strength(6)

Endurance(6)

Dexterity(7)

Charisma(20)

Intelligence(17)

Wisdom(15)

Luck(17)

Skills: Appraise(4)

Bartering(10)

Harvesting(2)

Invention(5)

Strategy(1)

Tactics(1)

Gold:83

Silver:65

Copper:32

}

{You have been killed. You can spend 10 gold or 1 level to resurrect. Would you like to resurrect? Y/N?}

Chapter 111

Jim woke and looked around. He was laying on his bed in the wagon. A crying Ariana was sitting in the floor with her arms around Dust. Kayja was sitting beside them and started to wag her tail as she gazed up at the bed. Kayja looked to Ari and Dust, turned back to the bed, jumped up on it, and drove her head into Jim’s chest. He murmured to his aki wolf and gave her some attention. Ari never once looked up despite Dust doing so.

Jim withdrew from Kayja and scooted to the edge of the bed. He gestured to Dust and silently encouraged the wolf to join Kayja and him on the bed. Dust pulled away from Ari and jumped onto the bed.

“Dust!” Ari cried. She looked up and saw Jim. “Jim?”

“Hey sweetie. I’m sorry I made you cry,” Jim said as he slipped to the floor, and pulled Ariana to him wrapping his arms around her. They held each other for a long time. “Ari, can we get up from the floor? I’m starting to cramp up, really need to use the bathroom, and put on some clothes.”

“You do sort of smell,” Ariana agreed. “Do what you need to do and take a shower. Then you’re going to spend some quality time with me in bed.”

“Yes ma’am,” Jim replied as they slowly stood up. “How long was I gone?”

“Two days.”

“That…sucks. I promise I’ll make it up to you,” Jim said as he walked toward the curtain separating the bathroom from the rest of the wagon.

“Jim?”

“Yes love?” Jim asked turning his head back to Ari.

“If you ever do something that stupid again, I’ll kill you myself.”

*

“Jim, did it hurt?” Ari asked later that night as they lay in bed.

Jim was silent for a little while before answering. “I don’t know.”

“What do you mean?” Ari asked rising onto an elbow and looking down at him.

“The last thing I remember was assigning some stat points.”

“How is that possible?”

“I think the being that brought me here did something to me,” Jim answered. He turned his head to face her. “I’m glad too.”

“Because it would be too traumatic otherwise?”

“Yeah. I’ve begun to think that is why I didn’t freak out when I first arrived on Stormgion.”

“You said before that was due to you always pushing forward and staying busy,” Ari replied.

“I think that was more coping on my part and not wanting to face the truth.”

“Makes sense,” Ari replied after a moment’s pause. She lowered her head and kissed Jim. Then she laid back down and rested her head on Jim’s shoulder and kissed his cheek. “I’m glad something was done to you as well.”

*

“Looks like you’re starting to run low on merchandise, a woman said to Jim.

“Yeah, I’m starting to run low on food, spices, and such,” Jim agreed.

“It seems a lot of our neighbors are afraid we aren’t staying,” Ari said. She and Jim had spent most of the last few days together with Jim only selling his wares through the middle part of the day. Mornings, evenings, and nights were theirs to spend together and with their wolves.

“Aye. I’ve heard that gossip,” the woman replied. “But if that was true, why would the lord do the stonework for your buildings?”

“Exactly!” Jim agreed. “Still, I understand their point of view.”

“Yes, well, I must be going.”

“Thank you for your patronage,” Jim and Ari chorused. The woman chuckled and walked off.

“Alone at last,” Ari said.

“Let’s pack up and walk along the shore,” Jim suggested.

“Sounds good to me,” Ari replied.

*

“It’s about time you two got back,” Kyra said by way of greeting when Ariana and Jim returned.

“Aye,” Abel agreed with a grin on his face. “We’ve been waiting to show something to you for the last hour.”

“We’re entitled to some alone time,” Jim said.

“Aye lad, that you are. And you know we just be messing with ya.”

“We do,” Ari agreed.

“Well, show it to them already,” Kyra commanded.

“Now, who be the master and who be the apprentice in this relationship?” Abel asked.

“Sorry master.”

“Don’t worry about it, lass,” Abel replied making a waving motion with his hand. “And what did I tell you about calling me master?”

“Sorry Abel.”

“Much better,” the elder said. Ari and Jim grinned at the banter between the dwarves.

“Alright, what’s the surprise?” Jim asked.

“Just this lad,” Abel answered pulling a suit of armor from his inventory. Jim Appraised the armor.

{Enchanted Dragon Scale Armor Value 100 Gold True Worth 40 Gold}

“Wow!” Ari said. “It’s beautiful. I’m surprised the scales still have the blue color.”

“This is a work of art and worth at least 100 gold coins,” Jim said. The armor reminded Jim of Samurai armor with rounded pauldrons. Abel pulled out matching vambraces, boots, greaves, and a helmet. Jim Appraised each item.

{Enchanted Dragon Scale Greaves Value 25 Gold True Worth 5 Gold}

{Enchanted Dragon Scale Vambraces Value 25 Gold True Worth 5 Gold}

{Enchanted Dragon Scale Boots Value 25 Gold True Worth 5 Gold}

{Enchanted Dragon Scale Helmet Value 25 Gold True Worth 5 Gold}

The helmet had horn like objects going from the forehead that curled up and around the helmet. They reminded Jim of Azure’s horns. The face mask had a small snarling snout and mouth that again reminded Jim of a dragon.

“Kyra, Abel, you guys out did yourselves. This armor is amazing,” Jim said praising his craftspeople.

“What kind of enchantments does it have?” Ari asked.

“Fit to size, keep the wearer comfortable, resist all elements which comes from the scales themselves, blood bond, and grow with the user.”

“Grow with user?”

“As the user grows in power, so does the armor,” Kyra answered.

“How much is it all worth, Jim?” Abel asked.

“The set is valued at 200 gold. The true worth is 60 gold.”

“You’ll be able to get more than that for it,” Abel said with a knowing smile.

“How many times did you two level while making it?” Ari asked.

“Five times,” Kyra answered with a huge grin on her face.

“I finally broke into the master rank,” Abel said proudly.

“We need to celebrate then,” Jim said.

“Aye. The kids are seeing to that right now,” Abel replied.

“Then what are we waiting for?” Jim asked.

“You to put the armor away.”

“Well, yeah,” Jim replied adding the armor to his inventory.

Chapter 112

“Fascinating.”

“What is fascinating?” Jim asked Kyra as he and Ari joined the dwarves and Azure. The dragon was once more swimming in the lake beside the shop. Ari pulled her dress up a little as she sat and took her shoes off. She dipped her feet into the water.

“Going to join me?” Azure asked.

Ariana shook her head. “No. I’m just letting my feet and ankles enjoy the water.

“Might need to look out for fish and other things in the water,” Remi said with a look of longing on her face.

“She won’t. Other than fish and a few insects, I’m the only other thing in this water,” Azure told the group.

“Really?” Remi asked.

“Truly,” Azure assured her. Eloise and Remi exchanged a look. The sisters then took off their boots and socks. They rolled up their pants and joined Ari sitting on the dock with their feet in the water. Azure laughed. The others joined them.

“Not joining them, Kyra?” Abel asked.

“Maybe in a little bit,” the enchantress answered. She turned to Jim. “What is fascinating is what Lord Azure was telling me about enchanting.”

“Oh?”

“Yes. I never knew that dragons gave enchanting to dwarves first and that dwarves passed it on to the other races.”

“Neat. I like history,” Ariana said.

“Me too,” Jim agreed. Kyra stared at the other women.

“Come on,” Eloise encouraged her. Remi and Ari waved her to join them as well. She took her boots and socks off, rolled up her pants, and joined them on the dock.

“Ah! That’s nice,” Kyra admitted.

“I knew I shouldn’t have taken that bet,” Leo said as the others laughed.

“What bet?” Azure asked. “You didn’t speak to anyone else about a bet.”

“Leo and I have a few gestures we have worked out when we want to make bets without others being aware,” Rhett said.

“Yeah. He bet ten coppers that Kyra would last at least ten minutes before joining the others. She barely lasted two minutes,” Leo said.

“That’s a sucker bet. Kyra can’t resist the other ladies,” Jim added.

“Aye,” Abel agreed. Kyra blushed while the others laughed.

“Don’t mind our idiots,” Remi told the enchantress putting her arm around Kyra. This earned more laughter except from Rhett and Leo. Then they laughed too.

“I have a question,” Jim said after the laughter died.

“What kind of question?” Ari asked.

“About enchantments.”

“What about them?” Kyra asked.

“How do they work?”

“What do you mean?” Eloise asked.

“Well, back on earth, we had technology instead of magic and enchantments.”

“Yeah, you’ve proven this with your innovations,” Rhett said.

“But on earth, the technology has to be powered somehow.”

“Can you give an example?” Azure asked. The dragon was fascinated with the earth talk.

“Well, take the grills for example. We use charcoal…”

“Same here unless it is enchanted,” Leo said.

“On earth, propane gas is also used.”

“Propane gas?” Abel asked.

“It’s a compound used to produce energy in simple terms.”

“Sort of like some alchemical ingredients,” Ari said.

“Exactly,” Jim agreed.

“Ok, but what does that have to do with enchantments?” Remi asked.

“Well, as I said, on earth technology has to have a power source. Stoves need gas or electricity. The cool boxes need electricity.”

“I think we all get that,” Abel said looking around and receiving nods from the others.

“When you say electricity, do you mean lightning?” Azure asked.

“Eh…close enough,” Jim said not wanting to derail the subject any more than it was.

“You want to know what powers enchantments, don’t you?” Kyra asked.

“Yeah.”

“That’s easy. Mana powers them,” Eloise said.

“Ok. But what is mana and how does it power enchantments? I’ve never seen a collector or storage rune.”

“Think of mana as the life energy of Stormgion,” Azure replied. “Like the air we all breathe, mana is everywhere and around everything. Very few are able to use mana though.”

“Ok. But how do the enchantment runes use it?”

“And I noticed you didn’t say mana was in everything,” Ari added.

“We, dragons, use mana just like every other creature uses the air. We breathe in. We can store it in our very being.”

“Some legends say dragons were created from mana,” Abel said interrupting Azure.

“Indeed. Those legends are incorrect though. My ancestors, like modern dragons, are more in tune with the planet and nature itself. They simply learned to use Stormgion’s energy, mana, for ourselves much earlier than any other race.”

“That’s awesome,” Jim said. “But what about the runes?”

“I was getting to that.”

“Sorry.”

“That’s alright. Runes are a written language invented by my ancestors. When they created it, they created it with the ability to harvest the ambient mana that surrounds us.

“How?” Kyra asked. This extremely valuable information to the young enchantress and something she doubted many others knew. “Sorry Jim. Had to ask before you did.”

“It’s ok,” Jim said and laughed.

“How did I melt and shape the stone?” Azure asked and gestured with his head to the shop and wall.

“Magic?” Kyra asked.

“Indeed.”

“But.”

“I wasn’t there. I’m not that old,” Azure replied with a chuckle. “How the ancestors created the runes is lost even to us.

“Ok. But how do the runes draw in mana? Do you know?” Jim asked.

“How do you breathe?”

“It’s a bodily function.”

“It just happens,” Leo added.

“Indeed. Runes are the same. They just draw the mana in and use what they need to do the enchantment,” Azure replied. “If I knew more, I would tell you. But as I stated about how runes were created, that knowledge is lost to us.”

“Fair enough,” Jim said. “Thank you for sharing what you could.”

The others thanked Azure as well. The dragon ate a couple of fish and said his goodbye before taking flight.

“I never get tired of seeing that,” Jim said looking up. His gaze followed the sun as it disappeared behind the eastern peaks.

“Azure flying?” Abel asked.

“Yeah, that too.”

“Huh?”

“He means the sunset,” Ari replied standing up and walking to Jim. She put her arms around him. He did the same to her as she turned her head to look at the sunset too.

“Aye. It is magnificent,” Abel agreed.

Chapter 113

“Where is everyone?” Ariana asked.

“Don’t know. I haven’t seen the others for a few hours,” Jim answered. “Maybe they’re all down in the cellar complex or whatever we’ll call it.”

“I figured they would have come up by now. It’s getting close to supper time.”

“We could eat by ourselves.”

“Jim, we’ve eaten as a group or dare I say it, family, since we met.”

“True, but we have had private, romantic meals too.”

“Ok. You got me there. Have you planned something romantic?” Ari asked.

“No.”

“Figures.”

“But we can do something.”

“Maybe. But it’s always better when one of us have planned and cooked.”

“That’s true too,” Jim agreed. He stood up and smiled. “Let me feed Al and Peggy and then we can track down our extended family.”

“Alright. You do that and I’ll feed Dust and Kayja.”

*

“Good evening, Jim,” a voice said as Jim closed the wagon door. He jumped down and walked to the lake.

“Good evening, Azure,” Jim returned the greeting. “Just out for another swim and snack?”

“No. I’ve brought you the diamonds we agreed on for my…curiosity,” Azure answered. The diamonds floated from Azure towards Jim. Jim took them and slipped the stones into his inventory.

“Thank you.”

“No, thank you. You didn’t have to agree to my plan.”

“I know. But I couldn’t have stopped you if you had just decided to do so anyway,” Jim replied with a shrug of his shoulders.

“While true, I wouldn’t have done so if you wouldn’t have agreed. I’m not cruel.”

“I know and I suspected you wouldn’t have done it without my permission.”

“Then why did you agree?”

“The diamonds. I couldn’t afford them otherwise.”

“Could you explain your reasoning more for me?”

Jim thought about it for a moment. “Kyra and Abel really want to try to create an enchanted dragon fire forge and kiln. They needed the diamonds to do so, so I partially did it for them.”

“You would really die for your people?”

“Partially.”

Azure laughed. “It’s not like death sticks to you.”

“Not as long as I have the coin or levels to pay the price.”

“Interesting.”

“Please keep that to yourself.”

“I will. What is the other reason you did it?”

“Reasons?”

“Oh?”

“For one, I want to keep us in your good graces. Blue Ridge is everything I’ve ever wanted.”

“Especially since you have Ariana and the others with you,” Azure stated.

“Yes. Ariana is the other reason I did it. I want to get her an engagement ring.”

“That is a custom from the other world?”

“Yeah. I just need to find someone that can make jewelry. Abel said he really doesn’t have the skills and anything he does would be basic.”

“Jim, would you be willing to let me see what you have in mind?”

“You just want to read my thoughts again.”

The dragon laughed once more. “Perhaps, but I give you my word I will not look further than what you show me.”

“Ok,” Jim agreed. He imagined an engagement ring with the small blue diamond. Jim then opened that thought to Azure.

“Hmmm. I see. Thank you.”

“There isn’t someone here that could make a ring is there?”

“Not a villager,” the dragon lord answered. Jim looked up and grinned.

“I notice you said villager and not anyone.”

“Indeed. Do you have a small bit of gold?”

“Just coins.”

“Give me one and the blue stone. I will make this ring for you.”

“Azure, that’s not what I meant. You don’t have…” Jim trailed off as Azure just glared at him. He pulled out the diamond and a gold coin. Jim gave them to the dragon. “Thank you.”

“You’re welcome. This is a trivial bit of magic, but one I haven’t used in this manner before. It intrigues me,” the dragon replied. “Your thoughts had been a bit more open than you had intended. I will take some liberties with what you have shown me.”

A moment later and the coin was a pile of molten metal floating before the two of them. Jim watched in stunned silence. A small section peeled away and formed a perfect circle. A little more gold joined the circle and Azure molded the band into flower and vine shapes. It reminded Jim of Cypress or Hummingbird Vines. Tiny runes appeared on the inside of the band. The diamond floated to the ring and settled against the main flower. A second later and it was firmly attached. The rest of the gold formed into a tiny nugget and disappeared into Azure’s inventory. Jim and Azure shared a laugh over that.

The ring stayed in midair as Azure swiped a small bit of stone. Like the ring, it melted, and Azure shaped it into a hinged box. The dragon added some flower designs to the lid. The small stone box and ring floated to Jim.

“That was amazing!”

“Thank you. You will have to add your own cloth to the box to hold the ring. Stone is never soft.”

“I think I have just the thing,” Jim said as he pulled out a bolt of rich red fabric from his inventory. He pulled off just a little bit. Azure used a claw to cleanly cut the fabric. Jim folded it up and put it in the box.

“Good fit,” Azure said as Jim took the ring out of the air. Jim noticed the runes on the inside of the band as he Appraised the ring.

{Dragon crafted Blue Diamond Engagement Ring Value ??? True Worth ???}

“What the heck?” Jim asked.

“What is it?”

“My Appraise skill cannot give me values for the ring.”

Azure laughed. “Do you not understand?”

“Understand what?”

“For one, this ring was created by a dragon. We are an ancient species that very rarely creates items.”

“I think I get it.”

“And for two, this is something you are giving to the woman that possesses your heart and symbolizes your love for her. Can you place a value on love?”

“You’re correct on both counts,” Jim replied after a moment. “Thank you again.”

“You are welcome.”

“One question though.”

“What do the runes mean or do?”

“Both.”

“The runes will resize the ring if needed, it is blood bondable, protects the wearer as if they had on armor of the quality your guards wear, keeps the ring from being broken, and functions as a storage device since you two legged creatures love those things,” Azure replied. Jim’s eyes widened in shock. “In the runic language, it says to my eternal flame.”

Jim laughed. “Eternal flame was a song on earth.

“To dragons, it is a great thing to say to your loved one,” Azure replied with a sniff.

“I mean no offense.”

“I know. And don’t think about how you can pay me back. This is a gift to a friend from a friend.”

“Thank you, Azure. I consider you a friend too,” Jim replied.

“Now, if you really want to do something for your friend, you will go get those bison you promised me,” Azure said with a grin on his face. He smacked his lips for emphasis.

“I’ll leave in a couple of days. I’ll need to get some sheep too.”

“Sheep?” Azure asked. “Ah. For the wool and meat.”

“Exactly. Better clothing for us two legged creatures,” Jim replied with a grin on his face, “along with meat and a change of diet for you.”

“I approve of this plan. Good night, Jim. Ariana is waiting for you.”

“How do you know that?”

“A dragon knows everything that happens near its lair.”

“Everything?”

“Everything,” Azure answered with a glare. “Thankfully, I learned how to ignore certain things centuries ago,” Azure replied with a shudder before taking flight.

Chapter 114

“Alright you two slackers. You’ve gotten lazy enough. We’ll be back on the road in two or three days,” Jim told Peggy and Al. The pair swished their tails at him. Jim spent some time brushing them. He then fed and watered the mules. Jim talked to them for a little while. He felt a little guilty about not giving them a lot of attention. After they ate, Jim gave them both an apple. “Well, I better get back before Ari comes looking for me.”

“It’s too late for that,” Ariana said from where she was leaning against the stable doorway. The stable didn’t have doors yet.

“Sorry. Azure was here and we talked for a bit,” Jim explained as he walked to her.

“What did he want?”

“Gave me the diamonds for the deal we made. We talked a bit and he encouraged me to prepare to go get the sheep and bison.”

Ari sighed. “I guess we couldn’t put that off for much longer. Doing it now will make Azure happy and help the village though.”

“Too true.”

“Well, let’s go find our missing people,” Ari said and turned to leave the stable.

“Hey.”

“What?” Ari ask slowing down.

“Wait there for a minute,” Jim said jogging to Ari, who had stopped. “I was going to wait to do this, but now is as good a time as any even if it bends some customs.”

“Good time for what?”

“This,” Jim said taking a knee and pulling the stone box from his inventory. Ari stared at him.

“What are you doing?”

Jim shook his head. “I forget Stormgion isn’t earth.”

“You’ll remember that one day,” Ari replied and grinned. Jim presented the box and opened it.

“Will you marry me?”

It took a moment, but Ari processed what he was doing after remembering what Jim had said about engagement rings and earth. She stared at the ring and hesitantly picked it up. “It’s beautiful and I adore the flowers and vines. How? When did you get this done?”

Jim took the ring. “Answer my question first.”

“Yes! I’ll marry you,” Ari answered not able to keep the smile off her face.

Jim slipped it on her finger, and it shrunk just a little. He stood and pulled her into a hug. They kissed.

“Azure crafted it just a few minutes ago,” Jim answered after the kiss ended. He explained the enchantments and what the runes meant.

“Eternal flame, huh?”

“Yep.”

“I like it.”

“Me too.”

*

“Wow!”

“What is it?” Ari asked.

“I haven’t been in here since before Azure’s experiment,” Jim said as they entered the shop. The loft and railing or half wall were done overlooking the shopfront. The front had been altered and now featured two large floor-to-ceiling windows on either side of the door. Another window extended above the door to the ceiling. “When did the front change?”

“I had asked Azure to do that after you came back. He used quartz or glass for the windows. He said they wouldn’t break.”

“That will give us a lot of natural light during the daytime hours and give lots of space to show stuff off in the windows too.”

“Yep.”

Jim grinned. He loved it when others used his words from earth. He gestured to the exposed slender parts of the wall between the door and windows. “Should we cover these with wood?”

“No, I think we should leave it stone. It looks nice enough.”

“Plus, it’s cheaper.”

“Uh huh,” Ari replied looking at her new ring once more. Jim noticed and smiled. She looked up and blushed. “Sorry.”

“Don’t be. I’m happy you’re happy.”

“I’m not happy. I’m thrilled.”

“That works too.”

“Come on, let’s look upstairs before heading down.”

“You sure you want to do that and not show off the ring first?”

“I…I’m sure.”

“Lead on then fair lady,” Jim replied. He shook his head and grinned as Ari started back into the hallway. Some things were evidently universal.

*

“George has done a lot more than I thought he would have,” Jim said as they looked from room to room. All the flooring was done, and the carpenter had started adding wood for walls where Ari and Jim had requested as well as doors.

“Yeah. He said he’s had several more villagers offer to help and has accepted it.”

“Makes sense that he would be making more progress than anticipated then. I’m not sure why the other villagers have offered to help though.”

“Other than getting paid?”

“Well, yeah.”

“They want to let us know they want us here is my best guess,” Ari replied.

“And they’re willing to invest time and work into that?” Jim asked. Ari nodded in agreement. “They’ve done good work so far.”

“Yeah, they have. George told me they should start on the cabinets in another week or so.”

“That’s great. Shouldn’t that be everything inside?”

“Almost. He’s going to build furniture too.”

“When did you decide on that?”

“After he showed me a chair and table set, he had made for Yurie. I hope you don’t mind that I didn’t consult you.”

“I don’t. Let’s go find our wayward dwarven friends.”

“Lead on good sir,” Ari said with a grin on her face. Jim grinned and led the way back down.

*

“I guess it’s a good thing we are having so much wood used upstairs,” Jim said as they looked around in the basement compound.

“Yeah, Abel and the others aren’t big on wood except for where needed it seems. Even the beds are made from stone with the mattresses from their wagon thrown on them.”

“You’ve seen their bedrooms?”

“Yeah. Remi and Eloise showed me when they first moved in. You were too busy selling to the villagers.”

“Ah. I miss out on a lot, don’t I?”

“Sometimes. You get too busy,” Ari replied. She slipped her right arm through his left. “We’ll work on that once you get back from the bison and sheep trip.”

“That works for me,” Jim said as they walked into the forge room. “I suppose Abel hasn’t done a lot with this since we want to try to make that enchanted dragon fire thing workout.

“Yep,” Ari agreed. Splashing and voices could be heard from further down the far hallway. “Do you hear that?”

“I do. Let’s take a look.”

“Alright,” Ari agreed, and the couple made their way to the voices and splashing sound. They found the dwarves in a large tub wearing their underwear.

“Are those water jets? Have they made a jacuzzi?”

“What’s a jacuzzi?”

“A large tub used for relaxation and therapy. It has these little nozzles called jets that shoot water to massage you. Oh, and the water is hot.”

“Sort of like a hot spring?”

“Yeah.”

“I want one!”

“Me too. I wonder how they did it?”

“You could quit your yapping and come over to see for yourselves,” Remi said.

“Both of you are too big, so you’ll just have to look,” Leo smugly said. “This one is dwarf size only.”

“Taunting your employer again?” Rhett asked.

“Just a little.”

“I’ll remember that when I need to visit the old ladies again,” Jim said. Leo’s mouth dropped open in shock. The others laughed.

“I didn’t mean anything Jim!”

“Yeah, yeah. Too late now.”

“Don’t worry dear. I’ll go too so the old women leave you alone,” Eloise said.

“I’m willing to bet they still mess with him even with Eloise there,” Remi said.

“Me too,” Rhett added.

“Better you than me lad,” Abel said.

“I’m just glad there aren’t any horny old men here,” Kyra said.

“Who says there isn’t?” Abel asked.

“Not you master!”

“Maybe, maybe not. But I imagine there are some in the village. It’s only natural.”

“That’s true,” Ari agreed. “Now, tell us about this tub.”

“Gladly,” Kyra said wanting to change the subject. “We had the marble workers make it for us.”

“That was time they could have been working on my order,” Jim objected.

“We know,” Abel replied. “It only took them a few hours. No harm done since your order is still on schedule.”

Jim shook his head as Kyra continued. “Anyway, after it was done, we used a storage bag to move it down here and I enchanted it for heat and to shoot these massaging streams of water out.”

“Yeah, I want one,” Jim replied as Ari nodded in agreement.

“Good thing I asked them to make you a slightly larger bathtub that Kyra enchanted then, isn’t it?” Eloise asked.

“You did?” Ari asked.

“Aye,” Rhett answered. “We knew you two would want this and that the tub Jim bought for personal use would be a little too small.”

“Thanks guys. We appreciate it.”

“Don’t thank us yet. You’re still paying for it,” Remi replied to laughter.

“I don’t mind paying,” Jim said. “Just have to wait for the house to finish and to return from the trip.”

“What trip?” Leo asked.

“The bison and sheep trip.”

“Oh. That one.”

“Yeah, that one.”

“Just when we were all enjoying being settled down again,” Abel said.

“I think some of us could stay,” Jim replied. “I have to go along with Leo and Rhett.”

“Why us?” Rhett asked.

“Because, dear husband, we are learning to smith and enchant,” Remi answered guessing that is what Jim had in mind.

“You hit the nail on the head,” Jim said. “I’ll see if a couple of the hunters will go with us and then we can leave in two or three days.”

“You’ll take the wolves too,” Ari said.

“Aye. They will be a big help as long as they don’t scare the herd,” Abel added.

“We could probably pick up some extra guards or hands at least for the trip back too,” Rhett added. Jim nodded in agreement.

“Ok, enough of that. Is that the engagement ring?” Eloise asked grabbing Ariana’s left hand to get a closer look. The other two women stood and pushed the men out of the way to get a closer look.

Chapter 115

“Are you sure you don’t want me to go with you?” Ari asked Jim.

“No. I want you with me, but I also know you really want to stay and direct the construction of our home.”

“I blame you for that. I didn’t care about home décor or whatever you called it until you told me about it along with the pictures of houses from the other world you drew.”

“Yeah, that’s my fault,” Jim agreed grinning. Ari slapped his arm. “Hey!” Jim said rubbing his arm.

“That’s what you deserve too,” Ariana said giving Jim a grin of her own.

“I’d love to give you what you deserve,” Jim replied wagging his eyebrows and pulling Ariana into a hug. She slapped both sides of his jaws and then hugged him.

“We don’t have time for that. Besides, didn’t you get enough last night?”

“Nope. I don’t think I can ever get enough of you.”

Ariana smiled. “That makes two of us.”

“Maybe we can have a quick go,” Jim said pulling Ari closer and kissing her.

“Knock it off you two!”

“Hi Yurie,” Ari greeted the other elf after the kiss ended.

“Hey,” Jim added.

“Kai, Kas, and I are ready to go. I see you two are ready to go,” Yurie said with a grin and wink. Kai shook his head as Kas smiled. “But are you ready for this trip?”

“As ready as I can be,” Jim answered. “Are the other villagers that volunteered to go ready?”

“Yeah. They’ll meet us on the other side of the lake,” Kai answered. Jim nodded in understanding.

“Are all of your guards coming?” Kas asked.

“No. Rhett and Leo are coming with us.”

“Able, Kyra, Eloise, and Remi are staying with me,” Ari added. “We’re going to work on our crafting skills mostly.”

“Isn’t that what you’ve been doing since arriving?” Yurie asked.

“Mostly. We know we are as safe as can be here.”

“Yeah, that is one of the best advantages Blue Ridge has over other villages or towns. Our lord can only be bested by a dragon older than he is,” Kas said.

“And since any elder dragons already have their own preferred territories, that isn’t likely to happen,” Jim added.

“Jim! Let’s get this show on the road!” Leo yelled as he rushed up to them.

“What’s the hurry?” Ari asked.

“His three favorite older women have been asking for goodbye favors,” Rhett answered as he joined them. The others laughed.

“Thank the gods they have fixated on you and leave me alone now,” Kai muttered to more laughter.

“You can have their attention back,” Leo replied.

“No, thank you.”

“Are we taking both of your wagons?” Yurie asked.

“Yeah,” Rhett answered. “That gives us two beds to rotate for anyone that doesn’t mind dwarf sized beds.”

“Don’t forget the shower and toilet,” Leo added.

“Toilet?” Kas asked.

“You’ll see lass. I know all the homes here have an outhouse or a privy, but you’ll decide you can’t live without one once you get used to it,” Able replied as he and the other dwarves joined them.

“Elder Abel is correct. The bathroom was the first thing we built, and I enchanted once Azure had finished building our abode,” Kyra said.

“How do you deal with the smell?” Kai asked.

“Enchantment,” Eloise answered pointing at Kyra.

“Well, this would make a good road conversation,” Jim said.

“Aye,” Rhett agreed.

“Let’s get on the road then,” Leo said.

“Get on the road?””

“We have picked up too many of Jim’s sayings,” Rhett told Leo.

“Aye.”

“Yeah, yeah,” Jim said. “Say your goodbyes and let’s go.”

“Fair enough,” Leo replied. Everyone said their goodbyes and separated. Ari and Jim said their goodbyes by means of several kisses and hugs.

“Be safe and come back quickly,” Ariana told Jim as he climbed up onto the wagon.

“I will. I have Peggy, Al, and my second favorite girl, Kyra. We’ll be fine,” Jim replied. Jim turned to the hunters. “Are you guys sure you want to walk?”

“Yep. We’re sure. We’ll ride when we need rest,” Yurie answered. She turned and led the hunters down the path leading down the valley.

Jim turned to Ari once more as she said, “Love you.”

“Love you too,” Jim replied snapping the reins and getting the mules going.

*

“Jim, are you sure this trip will be profitable?” Leo asked as Jim cooked supper after they stopped for the night.

“Yeah, I am. We have the furs and pelts the village didn’t want as well as the tubs, basins, ceramics, and stuff Abel, Kyra, and your wives crafted. Plus, Ari’s alchemical goods,” Jim answered as he added some garlic and pepper to the thin tomato sauce he was cooking. “Honestly, I just hope we have enough people to keep the herds going in the right direction.”

“And protect them from predators?” Rhett asked.

“That too. I’m more worried about the two-legged variety then than the others.”

“There aren’t many monsters or beasts with two legs that would hunt a bison or even sheep in these parts,” Kai said as the hunters and other villagers gathered outside Jim’s wagon.

“That really smells good,” Kas said.

“Thanks. The pasta and sauce will be ready in a few more minutes,” Jim replied. “But I was referring to bandits and other ne’er do wells instead of monsters.”

“Hmmm. Yes, I could see them being a problem,” Yurie replied.

“That’s what we’re here for,” Leo said gesturing to Rhett, himself, and the hunters.

“Don’t forget Kayja and May,” Jim added pointing at the two aki wolves eating raw fish. The others nodded in agreement and started to talk amongst themselves. Minutes later, Jim called the others to eat.

“This is pretty good,” Yurie commented to agreement from the others. “What is it called?”

“Spaghetti,” Jim answered.

“Is it something you invented? I’ve never heard of it before,” Kai asked.

“No. It’s a dish from where I grew up.”

“Where is that?” one of the hired villagers asked.

“A land far away,” Rhett answered before Jim could. Kayja walked over to Jim and jumped up to lean on him. Jim looked at his wolf.

“You can’t have any of this. You’ve already had your supper,” Jim told her. Kayja licked his face and dropped down. “Ugh! Fish breath.”

“Better you than us!” one of the villagers said to laughter.

Chapter 116

“I wonder if Azure is waiting on us or will arrive shortly after we get to the blocked pass,” Jim said. Leo grunted but didn’t say anything. “No thoughts on the matter?”

“Not really.”

“Alright. What’s going on and why did you want to join me for this leg of the trip?” Jim asked Leo. Kayja looked up at the two and then laid her head on her paws. They had been riding in silence for some time. Leo didn’t immediately answer. “You’re acting a bit odd or nervous and that isn’t like you.”

“I have a favor to ask.”

“Ok. Ask away.”

“I…I’ve been thinking about the future.”

“That’s good.”

“And with my wife and Remi deciding to give up being guards, I’ve started to think I want to do the same.”

Jim turned and looked at the dwarf for a moment and then turned back to the trail and smiled. “Thinking of having kids, I mean wee ones?”

“What? No, well, yes. But that’s beside the point.”

Jim laughed. “Alright. I’m just messing with you. If you don’t want to be a guard any longer, what do you want to do?”

Leo looked at Jim. “I think I want to be a merchant.”

“That’s… unexpected,” Jim replied while looking back at Leo.

“Why do you say that?”

“I suppose I thought you might want to open a tavern or something like,” Jim answered with a shrug.

“I thought about it, but Blue Ridge already has one and is too small for another.”

“The same could be said about merchants.”

“True,” Leo conceded. “But I thought I could work for you still, just as a merchant.”

“What do you mean?”

“Well, you plan on staying in Blue Ridge after this trip, right?”

“Yeah, except for whenever we would need a run made to the lowlands.”

“I thought I could be the traveling merchant for you while you stay at home.”

“Huh.”

“I’ve learned a lot just by watching your dealings. I’ve picked up the Inspect skill as well as Haggling by making deals with Eloise and the others.”

“Huh.”

Leo threw Jim a look and continued, “I’ve even unlocked the merchant class.”

“Huh.”

“I would just need to visit a priest and have him change my class.”

“Wait. Really?”

“It’s about time you said something besides huh,” Leo quipped.

“Why didn’t you ask Abel to change your class? I also thought you and Rhett wanted to stay guards.”

“Eloise and I hadn’t discussed it fully and I was still unsure then. Rhett wants to run his own guard company. He doesn’t care if it’s small or large.”

“Am I going to have to find new guards or is he planning on me hiring this proposed group?”

“The latter I think, but you’ll have to ask Rhett to be sure.”

“Figures. Being on the road again made you sure?” Jim asked getting the conversation back on track.

“Sort of.”

“Care to explain?”

“I was already leaning towards making the switch and being on the road helped me make up my mind.”

“But being on the road means you won’t be home with Eloise and any children.”

“Aye, but I figure I could make regular runs every couple months while you stay home handling any merchants that visit Blue Ridge.”

“Makes sense,” Jim replied and fell silent. Having a partner or employee that was a merchant would make things easier and give him more time with Ariana. It would also let him manage the herds or at least oversee whoever he hires to handle them. Jim didn’t want to just give them to the village. “I suppose you would want to spilt the profits from your deals?”

“I was considering that, yes.”

“How about a small commission on each sale and a salary?” Jim countered.

“Define small,” Leo replied with a grin.

“Ten percent,” Jim answered.

“I was thinking no less than forty percent.”

“With me paying you a salary too?”

“Aye.”

“That’s a no from me.”

“Thirty percent?”

“Nope.”

“Twenty-five?”

“Nah.”

“Fine, twenty.”

“Same salary you’re getting now?”

“Of course.”

“Nuh uh. I’ll leave your salary the same and give you quarterly bonuses until you prove that you can make good deals.”

“How much of a bonus?”

“Depends on how much you sell. I’m also providing your food, guards, and I suppose you’ll use your wagon or mine. If mine, I’ll let you use Al and Peggy too.”

“That’s more than fair,” Leo said after giving it some thought.

“You’ll have to keep up your guard duties until we find some replacements for you and the others,” Jim warned.

“I know and am willing to do so.”

“Good. Do we have a deal?”

“Aye. We have a deal,” Leo replied sticking a hand out for Jim to shake. Jim transferred the reins to one hand and shook with Leo. Jim smiled and faced the trail once more. He checked his notices and stats.

{Congratulations! You have completed a deal. Bartering can be upgraded to Negotiation. Do you wish to upgrade your skill? Y/N}

Jim checked the help on Negotiation.

{Negotiation offers better terms on all your deals, trades, and sales. Negotiation offers up to an additional 25% bonus on prices.}

Jim upgraded the skill.

{

Jim Merchant

Level: 10

Class: Merchant

Health: 200

Stamina: 200

Strength(6)

Endurance(6)

Dexterity(7)

Charisma(20)

Intelligence(17)

Wisdom(15)

Luck(17)

Skills: Appraise(4)

Negotiation(1)

Harvesting(2)

Invention(5)

Strategy(1)

Tactics(1)

Gold:83

Silver:42

Copper:32

}

“What are you smiling so much about?” Leo asked.

“Just one of my skills evolving to the next phase.”

“Oh?”

“Yep.”

“Are you going to tell me what you got or not?”

“Bartering just became Negotiation,” Jim answered. The smile did not leave his face as Jim explained what it did.

“I really need to work on my skills.”

“Yeah, you do.”

Chapter 117

“It’s about time you land travelers showed up,” Azure mock complained with a dragon grin on his face. “Do you know how long I’ve been waiting for you?”

“Not all of us have wings like certain flying lizards,” Jim replied with a grin on his face. The hunters and other villagers all looked at Jim like he was insane. Azure glared at Jim and then burst into laughter.

“I think this might be why I wanted you to join Blue Ridge more than any other reason,” Azure said. Everyone gave the dragon confused looks. “Jim is unafraid to joke and converse with me instead of always treating me as a noble.”

“Everyone needs a friend,” Rhett said quietly.

“Indeed,” Azure agreed. “Rest a while and I will open the passage. Oh, before I do, I have something for you Jim.”

“Yes, my lord,” Yurie and most of the others chorused. Jim shook his head and smiled. So did Rhett and Leo. Jim walked over to Azure. The two spoke quietly for a moment and then Azure shoved his head into Jim, knocking him over before walking off. The others laughed at Jim.

“Should we follow and watch what Azure does?” Leo asked as Jim stood up and dusted himself off.

“Either he’ll physically move whatever is blocking the pass or more than likely, melt the stone like he did when Azure built our home,” Rhett replied.

“I think it’ll be the latter option,” Jim chimed in as the trio nodded to each other and followed their dragon lord.

*

Jim gazed down the pass and onto the plains below. “So, this is the heartlands?”

“Aye,” Rhett answered coming up on Jim’s right. “The farm and ranch capital of well…the capital.”

“Save the jokes for me,” Leo said. “Jim, you look like you’ve seen this before.”

“I haven’t. It just reminds me of a place called the Great Plains back on earth.”

“Ha. It is similar,” Azure added.

“You saw that too?” Jim asked.

“Indeed.”

“Well, it’s time to get going.”

“In a hurry?”

“Yeah, these two want to get back to their wives and I want to get back to Ariana.”

“They will be safe. You have my word,” Azure stated.

“Thank you,” Leo replied while Jim and Rhett nodded their heads.

“You are most welcome. Stay safe and I will meet you in a few days when you have the herds.”

*

Rhett was driving for Jim the next morning as they made their way down onto the grasslands.

“Any ideas for what sort of people you’re going to look for to take the place of Leo and the others?”

“I’m hoping to find some with similar dispositions.”

“Makes sense. And if you can’t?”

“I’ll hire the most trustworthy and best I can find. They’ll be guarding my family in addition to yours and your business after all.”

“Very true,” Jim agreed.

“What about Leo’s and the others’ salaries? You’ve already paid us for the year.”

“I thought I would just let them keep what they’re getting paid in exchange for still working for me,” Jim replied with a shrug. “I’ll have to pay Leo a bonus based off whatever his sales are quarterly or at least yearly though.”

“Will the others get a bonus?”

“Probably. I believe in rewarding good work and good people.”

“That’s good. You’ll probably need to give Kyra a raise though.”

“That’s true. I suppose we will have to renegotiate if you start your own guard company.”

“I had been leaning that way, but I think I would rather just be the captain of your guards and let you have all the costs,” Rhett replied and grinned.

“Then what was that about hiring people?”

“I thought I would get to do that even as your guard captain.”

“Fair enough.”

“And a raise perhaps?”

“Maybe. Let’s see what we do about hiring first and what we pay them before doing any adjustments to your pay.”

“Alright. Though anyone truly worth hiring will want what we asked for, if not more.”

“It’s a good thing I have the Negotiation skill then.”

“When did you get that skill?”

“The other day when Leo and I worked out our new deal. Bargaining upgraded to it.”

“I’m surprised you didn’t get it when you made the deal with Azure.”

“Me too.”

“Me too what?” Leo asked as he rode up on a pony beside them.

“I thought you were driving our wagon?”

“I was, but Yurie wanted to drive for a while, and I let her.”

“If something happens to that wagon, Eloise and Remi are going to kill us.”

“Don’t forget Abel and Kyra will want to do so too,” Jim added.

“It’ll be fine. She’s a good driver,” Leo replied.

“It’s on your head if anything happens to the wagon,” Rhett warned.

“Yeah, yeah. So, what have you two been talking about?” Leo asked. Jim and Rhett filled him on their discussion about guards and what Jim wanted to do about pay. “I figured you would want to do that. It makes sense.”

“It’s going to snow,” Rhett quipped. “Leo figured something out on his own.”

“Hey! I resent that.”

“Just messing with you brother.”

“I know.”

Chapter 118

Farms and ranches surrounded Praha City in all directions as far as the eye could see which one confirmed Jim’s idea that the heartlands were Stormgion’s version of the Great Plains. Jim wanted to stop at the first big ranch they came upon to see if he could work out a deal for the bison or sheep before heading into the capital. The party was just passing one of the outlaying ranches when Jim spotted something he had not expected to see. A small shaggy mound moved.

“No way!” Jim nearly shouted and pulled on the brake.

“Jim? What is it?” Leo asked. The dwarf had decided to ride with Jim for a time earlier that day to pick his brain on being a merchant. Jim pointed to what he had seen.

{Hairy Coos Value 10 Silvers True Worth 8 Silvers}

Leo turned to look at what Jim was staring at. “Coos? They’re used for their skins. They make excellent leather. Some people are crazy enough to use the animals instead of bison and goats for milk and meat.”

“Those are cows,” Jim said with tears in his eyes. He set the brake and stood to get a better look at the small animals. “Actual beef and milk cows!”

“What is the hold up?” Kai asked as the others walked up.

“Jim is freaking out over coos.”

“If you thought bison was good, you haven’t seen anything yet.”

“You want to eat those shaggy things?” Yurie asked.

“You darn skippy I do,” Jim replied to confused looks. “I’m sure Azure would love them too.”

“Oh?” What makes you say that?” Leo asked.

“Their name is very similar to a breed of cows called Highland cattle from…home. If they are at least similar, the meat will be lean, tender, well marbled, have a high protein content, and a succulent flavor. The milk will have extremely high butterfat content too. The coos should be docile and able to live in the mountains without issues.”

That perked the others up. High butterfat was excellent for butter, cheese, and milk. Having animals that could live well in the mountains was a huge bonus.

“I suppose you want to talk to the rancher that owns these animals,” Yurie said.

“Yes. Very badly in fact.”

“The fence turns up ahead on the right. I suggest we follow it to find the ranch house.”

“Works for me,” Jim replied sitting down and releasing the brake. He snapped the reins to get Al and Peggy moving again.

*

Several armed men met Jim’s group as they entered the yard of the ranch house.

“Who are you and what do you want?” an older man asked. He looked middle aged to Jim with black hair streaked with gray and a stomach starting to bulge over his pants. Jim set the brake after stopping the wagon.

“My name is Jim Merchant,” Jim started. Several of the armed men chuckled at his name. “Aye, my name is a bit humorous,” Jim said with a nod of his head. “I’m a merchant and want to talk to the rancher about his hairy coos.”

“This is my ranch, the older man said. “The name is Floyd Pepper. If you’re wanting leather, it’ll be a half year before we harvest them.”

“Takes that long for them to reach an age you’re willing to kill them?” Leo asked.

“Yep. I would sell the lot of them if I could and buy bison to raise instead. Bison are just more useful and profitable.”

“Boss, they came from the direction of the closed mountain pass,” one of the ranch hands said.

Floyd’s head whipped around to face his worker. “Is that a fact?”

“Yes boss.”

“The pass is temporarily opened,” Jim said.

“Nobody can open that pass.”

“Lord Azure did just that,” Kai replied.

“And just who is this Lord Azure?” Floyd asked.

“The dragon that controls that closed off territory,” Jim answered. The eyes of the rancher and his men all widened in shock.

“And just why would the dragon open land that he had closed off?”

“Azure desires that I open trade up,” Jim answered.

“You work for the dragon?”

“It’s more of a partnership. I was wondering if you might be interested in selling the coos.”

“For the dragon to eat?” Floyd asked with a gleam in his eye. Jim had to admit the rancher had a quick mind.

“No. Well, maybe a few of them. The cows, I mean coos, are for me.”

“And what would you want with them?” Floyd asked leaning on his sword after stabbing it into the ground.

“Have you ever eaten any of them?”

“Yeah. The meat is lean and not bad. I prefer bison though.”

“What about the milk?”

“Milk a coo?” one of the hands asked. “Why would we do that when we have goats?”

“Milking a coo would be almost as bad as milking a bison,” another hand said. “A goat is much easier to handle.”

“I’ll take your word for that since I’ve never milked any animal,” Jim replied. Floyd laughed.

“At least you know your limits.”

“Some of them,” Jim agreed. “How many coos do you have?”

“One hundred,” Floyd answered. “I’ll sell you the entire herd for 30 gold.”

“The coos aren’t worth that much,” Jim replied.

“How do you know?” Floyd asked. “Blast it! You have an Appraise skill, don’t you?”

“Indeed,” Jim replied tapping his right temple. “Giving you full value, which is 10 silvers each, that would only be 20 gold for the herd.”

“And you wouldn’t give full value,” Floyd said.

“Maybe, maybe not.”

“Oh?”

“It’ll depend on the shape your animals are in and if we work out any other trades,” Jim replied. Floyd looked thoughtful. “Would you object to a couple of my helpers going with a couple of yours and inspecting the herd?”

“I wouldn’t mind. All of the coos are healthy and in good shape though.”

“I believe, but still…”

“Aye. It’s always wise to have your own inspection of something you want to buy. Culver, you and Arnold go with whoever Mr Merchant sends to inspect the herd.”

“I’ll go,” Kai offered. “I’ll take Kas with me.”

“You’re volunteering?” Leo asked.

“Some of our hunter skills will allow us to inspect the condition of the animals,” Kas answered. “Jim’s correct that Lord Azure would probably like to try these coos.”

“Thanks,” Jim replied as the hunters and hands headed to the pasture. Jim turned to Floyd. “While they are doing that, and we wait, why don’t I show you some of my wares?”

*

“Honey, I would really love to have one of those basins and tubs,” Tina, Floyd’s wife whispered to him. Jim suppressed the grin that threatened his face as he heard the whisper.

“I would too,” Floyd whispered back. “Let me handle this.”

“Ok,” Jim said lowly with a smile on his face. The couple turned to him and blushed. Jim shrugged. “Sorry, but I overheard. I have enhanced senses.”

“Oh.”

“That’s an unfair advantage,” Floyd added.

“The senses have saved my life once or twice, and yeah, they make it easier to pick up on things.”

“How much do you want for a tub and basin?” Tina asked.

“I charge 1 gold for the basins and 10 for the tubs. I’ll trade both for 10 gold, which I would like to take from the 20 gold price of the herd.”

“I don’t know,” Floyd said.

“Jim?”

“Yes Leo?”

“Do you still have the first tub you had enchanted?”

“I think so. I’d have to check my inventory. Why?”

“It has the jet enchantment, doesn’t it?”

“That’s a good point,” Jim conceded. He checked his inventory. “Ha. I do have it.”

“What is a jet enchantment?” Tina asked.

“It is an enchantment that shoots pulses of water to massage you while you relax in the tub,” Leo answered as Jim took the tub out of his inventory.

“I had originally intended to keep this tub for myself and my companion, but our guards,” Jim said gesturing to Leo and Rhett, “had worked with their family and got us a bigger version that could hold two people at once.”

“Oh, that would be lovely, but wouldn’t work for us with our children,” Tina said. “Only one of us can relax at a time until they get older.” She turned to watch her kids as her daughter screamed in delight as the two chased Kayja in a circle.

“Jim, the herd is as promised,” Kai announced as he and his sister returned along with the two hands.

“Thank you,” Jim replied. He activated the enchantments on the tub to show the rancher and his wife how they worked. Floyd stuck his hand in the water. His eyes widened in wonder.

“I see what you mean,” he said. He sucked in a huge breath of air and exhaled. “Alright. I’ll trade you the herd for 10 gold and this tub and a basin.”

“Excellent!” Jim replied. “I have one more deal to offer you.”

“I’m listening.”

“As you see, there are only a few of us. Would you be willing to let me hire your hands or at least some of them to help us get the herd to the pass?”

“How much are you offering and why only to the pass?”

“Azure will meet us at the pass to assist in getting the herd home.”

“How can a dragon do that?” Floyd asked.

“Some sort of animal controlling ability. That or fear,” Jim answered. “I’m not sure which.”

“Ah. I can see that.”

“As for pay, it’ll take a couple of days to get there. So, a silver per hand.”

“Settle down,” Floyd ordered as his hands started offering their services to Jim. “I can’t leave the ranch unstaffed or defenseless. Make it 30 silvers for all of us, including those staying here, and you have a deal.”

“I’m feeling generous, I’ll go 25 silvers,” Jim countered feeling a little guilty over taking advantage of the herd deal, but not guilty enough to give Floyd all the coin he wanted. “And we pick up the herd on the way back from Praha City in a couple of days.”

“Alright. You have a deal,” Floyd replied.

“Oh yeah,” Jim said as they shook hands. “Do you have any sheep or know where I could buy some and some bison from?”

“My neighbor to the south will have some sheep he can sell you,” Floyd answered. “As for bison, I was planning on heading into the city after my lads returned to buy some.”

“Thanks. Would you mind introducing me to your neighbor after I write up a bill of sale?”

“No, I wouldn’t mind at all,” Floyd replied. “Let me saddle a horse while you write up your bill of sale, and then we’ll go.”

Chapter 119

“So, 100 of my sheep for 5 gold or your fancy enchanted bathtub?” Grayson asked, the sheep rancher asked. Floyd had returned home after making introductions saying he was eager to try out the tub. Jim had sent Leo to accompany the rancher to his horse with instructions to give the man one of the sets of ceramic dinnerware and a few health potions. Leo didn’t question the instructions as he knew Jim felt guilty about leaning on his skill the way he had and only smiled before doing as told.

“Aye. That is the deal I’m offering,” Jim replied rubbing his chin. “I’ll also want to make a deal to hire some of your hands to accompany me part of the way back to Blue Ridge to help with the herd if we come to an agreement.”

“I admit we would enjoy the tub, but I just don’t know.”

“I’ll throw in a set of ceramic dinnerware to sweeten the deal,” Jim said pulling out a plate to show the man.

“Oh, that is pretty,” Carol, his wife, said. She started to reach for the plate and stopped herself. “May I?”

“You may,” Jim replied handing the plate over. “Each set contains two plates, two bowls, and two saucers. I sell each piece for 10 silvers each, or 50 silvers a set.”

“Don’t drop it dear,” Grayson warned.

“I won’t,” Carol replied handing the plate back to Jim. He handed her a matching bowl so she could see their quality.”

“I wish you would throw in one of the basins,” Grayson said.

“I’m already taking a bath on the tub,” Jim replied.

“How so?” Carol asked.

“I sold one to Floyd for 10 gold, which is their normal price,” Jim replied.

“Ah. That means you’re probably selling everything for twice what you paid for it,” the rancher said.

“No. Some things have that kind of markup, others do not. And 5 gold is not what I paid for the tubs.”

“Care to give an example?”

“Potions for example. There is only so much you can do on pricing them,” Jim said. He carefully did not mention that he was splitting profits with Ari and that she was giving him her wares since their relationship had changed. “Also, those ceramic dinnerware sets aren’t sold at twice what I paid for them.” Jim was trying to sell them for five times what he paid for them.

“The coin would be nice,” Grayson said.

“But we don’t really need it and would either save it or spend it on things to make living on the ranch more pleasurable,” Carol said.

“True. Alright Jim, we’ll take the tub and dinnerware. I’ll also take one of the wash basins if you’re willing to take 75 silvers for it.”

Jim wanted to say yes immediately, but knew that wasn’t smart, so he appeared to give it some thought. “I, I can do that. In fact, I would be willing to take a bigger loss on the basin if we can work out a deal for some of your hands for a couple of days.”

“Excellent!” Carol said. “Can I choose the pattern for the dinnerware from what you have?”

“Of course,” Jim replied while shaking Grayson’s hand as the rancher shook his head at his wife’s excitement. “I’ll need to write up a bill of sale too.”

*

“And my lads will just have to go to the pass, not through it?” Tom Rancher asked.

“That’s right, Tom. We’ll just need their assistance to get to the pass. Once there, we will have more help,” Leo replied. Jim had let his guard and junior merchant take the lead on dealing with the bison rancher. Leo needed the experience if he truly wanted to be a merchant and Jim could afford to take a lesser deal on the bison because of the deals he had made for the coos and sheep.

“So, 40 bison and my lads’ assistance to the pass for 20 gold and 40 silvers or 14 gold and one of those tubs and wash basins?”

“That’s correct,” Leo replied throwing a glance at Jim, who was rubbing Kayja and pretending to not be paying attention.

“I’ll go with the second option then. My wife and wee ones will enjoy the tub a lot.”

“You have small children?” Leo asked.

“Aye.”

“They might like these,” Leo said pulling out a rabbit figurine. “Your wife might like it too. Mine does.”

“A rabbit statue?”

“It’s called a figurine, but yes, it’s a small statue.”

“How much do those cost?”

“We sell them for 10 silvers. It’s quite a bargain considering the craftsmanship,” Leo replied holding the rabbit out to the man to see.

Tom took it and examined the figurine. “Aye, this is good work. Do you have 4 of them?”

“Indeed. Would you accept 4 of them instead of the 40 silvers?” Leo asked.

“Aye lad. I reckon that be a fair trade,” Tom replied offering his free hand for Leo to shake. Leo shook hands and then started writing up a bill of sale.

*

“You did good, Leo.”

“Thanks Jim. I was worried I had made a bad deal,” Leo replied as Jim eased the wagon up in the line at the north Praha City gate.

“I could have gotten him down on the money even more than you did, but not bad at all for your first trade. Using our wares is always preferable to paying gold.”

“Aye. The wares don’t cost as much compared to the animals.”

“Very true,” Jim agreed.

“State your names and business,” a guard said interrupting their conversation.

“We’re merchants from a small village looking to trade or sell some of our village’s products,” Jim answered. “My name is Jim Merchant.”

“And I’m Leo Guardson.”

“What sort of products?” the guard asked as another looked up and eyed Jim at hearing his name. The second guard turned and spoke quietly to a third guard that quickly left the gate. The second guard went to check the other wagon.

“Ceramics, bathtubs, wash basins, alchemical potions, salves, weapons, armor, and some juniper wood.”

The guard looked up at the last bit. “You really have juniper wood?”

“Aye,” Leo answered.

“The nobles will love that.”

“That’s what we hope,” Jim replied.

“Humph. How long are you staying?”

“Two days,” Leo answered. “If the nobles and other wealthier residents love what we have, we don’t think we’ll need to be here longer before we sell everything we have and buy the things we’ll need to take back to the village to sell.”

“It’ll be 10 silvers for a three-day pass,” the guard said. Leo started to object.

“Ahem,” the guard that had ran off interrupted as he ran up. He whispered something to the first guard and stepped back after getting a nod in understanding.

“I made a mistake. That will be 2 silvers since this is your first-time visiting Praha City.”

“What about our other wagon and crew?” Jim asked pointing behind him.

“That will be another 2 silvers.”

“Fine, though that’s still higher than it was a year ago,” Leo replied.

“New mayor and ruling council,” the guard said taking the coin from Leo and handing him a pass.

“The open market is three blocks south. A livery is there to stable your animals,” the second guard informed them returning to his previous position.

“Thanks,” Jim replied snapping the reins making Al and Peggy start pulling the wagon again.

Chapter 120

“This market square doesn’t seem that busy,” Jim observed as the wagon passed a merchant watching his helpers set up his stall.

“This is the overflow square,” the merchant called out.

“Thanks,” Jim replied with a friendly nod of his head.

“Stupid amateur,” one of the merchant’s assistants grumbled.

“Nice wagon though,” the other remarked. “As is the one behind him.”

The merchant spared both wagons a look and turned back to his workers. “Back to work you lazy bums!”

“Not friendly sorts, are they?” Jim asked Leo.

“What did he say? I couldn’t make it all out,” Leo asked. Jim glanced at him. “What? Some of us don’t have enhanced hearing.”

“You need to get that enhanced senses skill. It’s very helpful,” Jim said and then told Leo what the merchant and his helpers had said.

“Yeah, unfriendly merchants are not unusual in Praha City.”

“Somehow, I’m not surprised,” Jim replied as he pulled the wagon into a squared off section near the livery. Jim set the brake as Leo entered the wagon to set the rear brake. Leo emerged with Kayja following him. Jim started giving his wolf a head rub.

“So, what do we do first?”

“See how much the livery wants to stable the mules and ponies for two days and two nights. You should be able to handle that,” Jim said with a grin on his face.

“Hey!” Leo objected. Jim laughed.

“It’ll be bartering experience.”

“Ah, good point,” Leo conceded and hoped off the wagon. “I’ll take care of it.”

“Thanks Leo,” Jim called as the dwarf walked toward the stable doors. Leo waved. Rhett walked up a moment later.

“What about the rest of us?” the guard asked.

“Hopefully we stay out of trouble,” Jim quipped. “Seriously though, I think I need some runners and criers.”

“You’re thinking of publicizing the dragon scale armor.”

“Indeed. That and everything else we have.”

“Seems we were directed to a square that won’t see a lot of traffic,” Yurie observed. Jim nodded in agreement. “So, it makes sense to publicize your wares.”

“Will you be able to trust people to do as you want?” Kai asked.

“For the right amount of coin? Yeah, I do.”

“Urchins for runners again?”

“Yep. I think we’ll promise them a meal in addition to a few coins.”

“That doesn’t strike me as a good idea,” Kai replied.

“Why not?” Jim asked.

“Do you not understand that urchins will steal from you?”

“They may try, but I trust Kayja, Rhett, Leo, you, Yurie, and the rest to watch my back and each other’s,” Jim answered. Jim climbed down from the driver’s seat and stretched. He walked around to his mules and fed them an apple each. Patting their necks, Jim said, “Besides, I have Al and Peggy to watch over me too.”

“That will be hard for them to do from the stable,” Leo said walking up. “I got the stable master down to 40 coppers for two days.”

“That’s robbery!” Kas objected.

“Yep,” Leo agreed. “He wanted 80 to start.”

Jim tossed Leo a silver. The dwarf caught it and frowned. “Pay him with that and bring me the change please. I’ll need the coppers to pay the urchins and criers.”

“Should I tell him we’ll stable the animals at sunset?” Leo asked.

“Yeah,” Jim replied. Leo nodded and walked back to the livery. “Rhett, if you’ll find an urchin or two, we’ll get them started.”

“I need to start looking for more guards too.”

“True.”

“I’ll do both and be back in a little while.”

“Alright. Stay safe and take someone else with you.”

“I can handle myself.”

“I know. But our friends here may want to look around a little bit,” Jim replied. The others nodded in agreement.

“I’ll go with him,” Yurie offered.

“Alright, let’s go,” Rhett said. The elf and dwarf walked off.

“Anything we can do??” Kas asked.

“Take this coin and get a few pounds of fresh ground bison meat or even beef and some bread. I would prefer beef actually.”

“Beef?” Kai asked.

“Cow.”

“Eh, gross,” the hunter replied.

“Trust me,” Jim said. “It’s great.”

“Will the butchers know how to grind the meat?” Kas asked taking a few silvers from Jim.

“They should. If not, tell them to cut it as small as possible and then beat it with a mallet.”

The elves exchanged a look and shook their heads. “Ok.”

“You’ve been eating it,” Jim replied grinning. “Now, get! Daylight is burning.”

“Are you sure the wolf will be enough protection?” Kai asked.

“I’m sure. Besides, Leo is here and I’m going to unharness the mules. Peggy and Al can do some damage.”

Kai looked at the big beasts of burden. “I bet.”

“Come on brother. Let’s find a butcher and a baker,” Kas said and led Kai away.

*

“Ok kids, pay attention,” Jim said once the five street urchins were gathered in front of him and Leo. A minute later and all five were watching and listening to him instead of staring at Kayja, who lay on Jim’s left. “I’ll give each of you two coppers to let it be known to the nobles and other wealthy citizens that the merchant with the round wagon,” Jim said while pointing to his wagon, “has a suit of dragon scale armor to sell.”

“You’re joking right?” the lone girl asked.

“No, I’m not,” Jim answered showing the children the chest armor and then returning it to his inventory. “I’ll also feed you a meal tonight and in the morning.”

The kids burst into excited conversation and the boys took off to do as Jim asked. The lone girl hesitated, smiled, and then took off after the boys. Leo and Jim exchanged a look and smiled.

“So, what do we do now?”

“Hope that Rhett finds some guards to hire,” Jim answered.

“And that our hunter friends don’t get into trouble and come back with the meat?”

“That too,” Jim agreed. “While we wait, let’s cut up some potatoes.”

“Burgers and fries for supper?”

“Yeah. It’s something simple and the kids should love it.”

“Do you still have some ketchup?”

“Oh yeah,” Jim replied.

*

Jim was grilling when Rhett returned with three guards that he was considering hiring. Leo was cooking the fries while the hunters kept watch. Several merchants had come by to inquire about the armor. Jim showed parts to them and set his price of at least 200 gold. Most left stating it was too expensive, but all of them agreed to check out his other wares when he opened for business on the morrow.

“See! I told you it was Jim!” a female voice said. Jim frowned as he thought he recognized it but didn’t turn as he was flipping burgers.

“This is my employer. He wants to have input on any guards I hire,” Jim heard Rhett say. “Uh, Jim?”

“Let me finish flipping these burgers. I don’t want to burn them. The kids would be disappointed,” Jim replied gesturing with the spatula to the urchins sitting on the ground with the elves.

“Do you still want me to break you?” another female voice asked.

“Do you have a problem with Jim,” Rhett asked in confusion.

“On the contrary, we like him well enough,” a third female voice answered.

“No way,” Jim muttered. Jade, Layla, and Sadie?”

“Yep. It’s us,” Jade answered smiling. Jim turned to face them after finishing flipping the burgers.

“You didn’t answer my question,” Sadie reminded Jim with a grin and wink.

“I’ll have to pass. My betrothed would kill me if I took you up on that offer,” Jim replied. “I don’t think she would mind me hugging a friend too much though.”

“That’ll work,” the half orc said walking up to Jim and hugging him. Her sisters followed suit.

“I take it these three guards meet with your approval?” Rhett asked.

Jim looked at the three of them. “I thought your contract with Michael went longer than this.”

“He fired us,” Layla answered.

“Anything we should know?” Rhett asked.

“Not really. Our former employer was unhappy with us for sticking with Jim when we arrived at Raven’s Rest instead of leaving him upon arrival and refusing to take part in hunting him down when he left the town,” Jade answered.

“They’re all level 10 and I was thinking of paying them 20 silvers a year each like you did us,” Rhett informed Jim. Jim raised an eyebrow. “As you said, take care of your people.”

“Yeah, these three troublemakers have my approval if you want to hire them,” Jim replied.

Chapter 121

“Ariana is going to kill you,” Leo told Jim after the urchins finished their meal and left.

“Why would she do that?”

“Because my three new hires are debating who gets to sleep with you first,” Rhett answered as he sat in an empty chair with them.

Jim slapped his forehead. “I’m not going to sleep with anybody except for Kayja on this trip.”

“Ah, Jim. That’s frowned upon and quite disgusting,” Leo replied.

“I didn’t mean it like that you twit!” Jim said. “You have a dirty mind, Leo.”

Rhett and Leo laughed.

“That he does,” Rhett agreed still laughing.

“Hey, I’m a dwarf. Getting dirty is part of life,” Leo replied to laughter from Rhett and Jim.

“What’s so funny?” Layla asked as she and her sisters joined the others.

“Dwarf humor,” Rhett answered.

“Haha,” Jade replied. “Seriously though, what were you talking about?”

“Sleeping arrangements,” Jim answered. The three women perked up a little at that though they tried to hide it.

“Oh?”

“Yeah. I’m sleeping with Kayja tonight.”

“Jim, I didn’t know you were into animals,” Sadie replied. “I’m sure I could accommodate you anyway.”

Rhett and Leo laughed while Jim blushed.

“I’m not into animals that way. The only woman I’ll sleep with is Ari. Kayja is the only female staying with me in the wagon though.”

“That’s good to hear Mr Merchant. At least you’re not a degenerate,” a male voice said from the other side of Jim’s wagon. The guards pulled weapons and spun to face the man. Kayja stood from where she had been laying down beside Jim.

“I hadn’t seen or heard him until he announced himself, Layla said. The others nodded in agreement. Jim Appraised the man.

{Adler Level 20 Rogue}

“His name is Adler and he’s a level 20 rogue,” Jim advised the others. Adler nodded in appreciation to Jim.

“Very good, Mr Merchant. Shall we cut straight to business?”

“Sure.”

“Jim, I don’t like this,” Jade said. The other guards agreed.

“It’s alright. Not even Kayja sensed him until he wanted to be known. His stealth skills must be extremely high and if he wanted to hurt us, he could have.”

“Excellent reasoning and on the mark,” Adler said. “Mr Merchant, I represent Lord Henrik Lender and he would like to meet with you. In fact, he’ll want to purchase your dragon scale armor when I advise him that it exists.”

“At least we know the urchins weren’t a waste of coin,” Leo commented.

“I’m afraid I have to decline the invitation to meet with your lord. I’m here to sell my wares and don’t have the time to meet with curious lords.”

“Jim!”

“That would be a mistake, Mr Merchant. Lord Henrik controls this city.”

“That’s funny. I could have sworn the king did,” Rhett replied to the rogue.

“Of course, his majesty rules the city.”

“If your lord wishes to purchase my armor, he may come tomorrow and do so when I put it up for sale,” Jim said cutting off the back and forth between Rhett and Adler. Adler nodded his head. “I do have one question though.”

“What is that?”

“How does your lord know about me?”

“Your reputation precedes you, Mr Merchant.”

“As does your lord’s,” Jim replied. “Have a good evening, Adler. I must get some rest.”

“My lord will be disappointed, but I will pass along that you declined his invitation. Have a good evening as well, Mr Merchant,” the rogue said before walking away. The group watched the man walk away.

“He’s more than dangerous,” Layla said.

“Yeah,” Jade agreed.

“He could probably break us instead of us breaking him in bed,” Sadie added. Rhett looked at the half orc like she was mad as the others laughed.

“Ladies, I hate to do it, but I think we need to set a watch and take turns tonight,” Rhett said after the laughter died.

“That makes sense,” Layla replied while her sisters nodded in agreement.

“Let’s get Al and Peggy out of the stable too,” Jim suggested.

“What? Why?” Jade asked.

“I’m more comfortable having my jackstocks near me,” Jim answered. “Besides, they can bite or kick. And they kick hard.”

“If you say so,” Sadie replied with a shrug of her shoulders. “They never kicked or anything when we traveled with you before.”

*

“So, did anything exciting happen last night?” Jim asked as he let Kayja out the next morning.

“Sort of,” Rhett answered.

“What do you mean?”

“Layla said your mules attacked somebody after midnight, but she never saw anyone,” Sadie answered.

“Care to explain?”

“Layla said she was walking between the wagons when she heard the mules make a noise. She then heard a scream cutoff after a thudding noise. By the time she got to the mules, she says there was nothing there other than some fresh footprints on the ground.”

“Interesting. I slept like a baby,” Jim admitted.

“So did I,” Rhett added. “Sadie, why don’t you take a nap?”

“That’s a good idea. Thanks. I’ll do so after breakfast,” she replied after yawning.

“Speaking of breakfast, what are we having?” Leo asked as he joined them.

“I’m thinking pancakes,” Jim answered.

“That works,” Rhett replied.

“Alright. Let me tend to my animals. It sounds like I need to reward Peggy and Al,” Jim told the others before climbing down from the wagon’s porch.

“Reward them for what?” Leo asked.

“Let me tell you the story,” Sadie replied.

Chapter 122

“Other than the armor that I have zero interest in, what else do you have for sale Mr Merchant,” the fancy dressed woman in front of Jim asked. She was flanked by two guards and four servants.

Well, Miss…”

“It’s Lady Blankenship,” one of the servants sniffed.

“Ah. Thank you for the correction,” Jim replied with a nod of his head. The servant nodded back. “For someone of your obvious breeding and tastes Lady Blankenship,” Jim began as the woman smiled at his praise, “we have a number of ceramic figurines, ceramic dinnerware, engraved fountain pens, some ancient juniper wood in 2*4 and 1*10 sizes, marble wash basins, and marble bathtubs.”

Leo showed an example of each of the smaller items Jim named.

“Marble?” Lady Blankenship asked. “Is that not a rock?”

Jim didn’t care for the woman’s attitude nor those of her servants. Still, he decided to kiss up a little to make a sale. He wouldn’t be giving much if any discount to her.

“It is indeed your ladyship. I see you are a woman of higher learning as well as taste.”

“Indeed,” the lady with another smile on her face. She definitely like being kissed up to.

“You expect a lady to bath in rock?” a different servant asked looking disgusted by the idea. Jim pulled one of the basins from his inventory and sat it on the table between them.

“I could bore you with the details of marble’s composition, it’s hardness, and the like,” Leo smoothy interjected, “but I won’t. Notice the fine white color…”

“What are those gray streaks?”

“Those are veins of other minerals in the stone. In this case it is quartz,” Leo answered. “Please, run your hand across the basin. It is very smooth to the touch.”

Blankenship did as suggest and smiled once more. “It is indeed smooth to the touch. What are those symbols along the edge near you?”

“These are control runes, your ladyship,” Jim answered. He started to gesture to them from left to right. “First, we have hot water, then a drainage control rune that is used when you want to empty the basin, and finally a cold-water rune.”

“Interesting. May I?” the lady asked gesturing to the runes.

“Of course,” Jim answered gesturing to the runes. She pressed the hot water control and then held a stuck a finger in the basin. Her face lit up as she felt the warm water. “The longer the water runs, the hotter it gets.”

One of her servants handed the lady a handkerchief to dry her finger on. “How do you stop the water?”

“Just press the rune again,” Jim answered. She did so.

“You have hot and cold water, but how do you get just warm water?”

“Use the hot and cold controls in tandem.”

Lady Blankenship pressed the drainage rune and watched as the water seemed to dissolve into the bottom of the basin. “I’ve seen enchanted basins before, but nothing quite like this. I admit to being impressed with the enchantments and the marble is quite striking.”

“Thank you, your ladyship,” Jim and Leo chorused. “We will inform our enchanters of your praise.”

The servants and guards cleared out a space on their lady’s right as a man dressed very similar to Lady Blankenship made his way to her side after a few whispers were passed between them. Lady Blankenship looked at the man and gave him a fond smile. “Virgil, my love! You must try this enchanted washbasin. The merchant says he has bathtubs as well.”

“Show me how it works,” Blankenship said. His wife did so. “You are correct my dear, this is very interesting. Might we see one of the tubs?”

“Of course, your lordship,” Jim replied producing one of the tubs from his inventory. Lady Blankenship showed her husband how it worked. “This tub is several steps above the ones we have at home.”

The lady ran her hand over the side of the tub. “And this marble is much smoother than the wooden tubs we have.”

“It can be quite relaxing just sitting in the tub letting the water soothe you,” Leo said.

“You’ve tried the tubs?”

“The craftsmen built one for my family,” Leo answered.

“The craftsmen are dwarves?”

“Yes, your lordship,” Leo answered.

“Ah. That makes sense. I’ve always known dwarves to look out for one another.”

“That is mostly true, my lord,” Leo agreed. “Exceptions do exist though.”

“Naturally,” the lord agreed. He turned his attention to Jim. “So, Mr…”

“Merchant, dear,” his wife supplied. He raised an eyebrow in question. “The merchant’s name is Jim Merchant.”

They laughed while Jim smiled.

“I thought it made sense.”

“It does. A sense of humor is a plus in my book.”

“Mine too,” Jim replied.

“Well, Mr Merchant, how much are you selling the tubs and basins for?”

“I charge 10 gold for the tubs and 1 gold for the basins.”

“So cheap for such craftsmanship and enchanting prowess?” the lady asked.

“That is a bargain,” the lord added.

“Even better, if you were to buy one, you would be the first in the city to own one,” Jim replied.

“Oh?” the wife asked looking very intrigued. The husband had the same look on his face. Leo, Rhett, and Jade stifled laughter. Layla and Sadie were sleeping while the villagers were sightseeing. Jim trusted they wouldn’t get into trouble, though he admitted that trust may be misplaced. “What about the ceramic dinnerware? I quite liked the look of it too.”

“Ten silvers per piece or 50 silvers for a set of six,” Jim answered.

“You don’t have sets in larger compliments?”

“I’m afraid not. Though we do have several sets that have the same pattern,” Jim replied. The couple took a few minutes to look over the patterns.

“How many sets of this blue bird pattern do you have?” Lady Blankenship asked.

“We have three of them,” Leo answered.

“What kind of discount will you give for two of your tubs, three of the basins, and the three sets of dinnerware?” the lord asked.

“Virgil! Haggling is beneath your station.”

“Dear, a merchant expects Haggling as part selling their wares. That said, you are correct. I will pay full price.”

“Thank you, my lord. Might you accept a gift or two in return?”

“That is acceptable,” the lady replied.

“In that case, I will give you two of the engraved fountain pens we have as well as your choice of three ceramic figurines,” Jim replied as a servant handed Leo the coin Virgil had given him.

“We shall let our friends know about your wares Mr Merchant.”

“Thank you for your custom and kind words,” Jim replied with a small bow. The lord’s party left after their items were handled by the servants. “It’s been a profitable morning. Hopefully the rest of the day is as good.”

Chapter 123

“This afternoon hasn’t been as profitable as the morning was,” Leo observed.

“That’s because I’ve let you handle most of the customers,” Jim retorted with a grin on his face.

“Yeah, yeah. Blame it on the low skills guy.”

“Speaking of skills, how do you upgrade without Abel being here or going to a temple?” Jim asked.

“He’s being groomed to be Abel’s successor as elder for our family,” Rhett answered.

“Really?” Jim asked with an incredulous look on his face.

“Yes,” Leo replied. “I’m the chosen one.”

Rhett started laughing at Leo’s comment. Leo frowned and then laughed as well. Jim looked back and forth between the two.

“What am I missing?”

“I passed on being the next elder after Remi and Eloise decided they didn’t want the title. So, Leo got it by process of elimination,” Rhett informed Jim. All three men laughed after Leo grinned and shrugged.

After the laughter died down, Leo said, “As Abel’s heir, I’ve been taught the knowledge needed to access and upgrade our skills.”

“When did that happen?”

“During our journeys,” Rhett answered.

“What, did you think we just goofed off while travelling in our wagon?”

“No. I assumed you guys worked on your craft and skills while singing songs,” Jim answered.

“Singing?”

“Ok,” Jim replied holding up his hands, “I ripped off the part about singing from Snow White.”

“Snow White?” Leo asked.

“A story from the other place about a girl and seven jolly dwarves.”

“And the dwarves sing?” Rhett asked frowning.

“They did in the moving picture story.”

“Well, we don’t sing,” Rhett replied frowning.

“Unless properly drunk,” Leo said grinning.

“Aye, unless properly smashed,” Rhett agreed.

“Why do I suddenly feel like I’ve been missing out by staying in my wagon all this time?”

“Because you’re not as dumb as you look,” Leo quipped before laughing. Rhett joined in the laughter.

“What’s so funny?” Jade asked as she walked up.

“Jim,” Leo replied.

“You’re lucky I’m not a vindictive person and boss,” Jim said glaring at Leo.

“I know.”

*

“Any luck selling the armor, Jim?” Yurie asked as she and the other hunters joined Jim, Leo, and the guards as the sun started to set. “The criers and urchins have been promoting it everywhere.”

“No. I haven’t even had anyone ask me about it this afternoon,” Jim answered.

“Nor I,” Leo added.

“Isn’t that strange?” Kai asked.

“It is,” Jim answered rubbing Kayja.

“We didn’t even have any adventurers ask to see this afternoon,” Leo said. “And that’s very strange.”

“Why is that strange?” Kas asked.

“It’s ultra-rare armor and they may never see the like again,” Layla answered.

“Yeah, it’s a once in the lifetime chance to see something most folks would consider legendary,” Jade added.

“So, you think something might happen tonight,” Yurie stated.

“Very possible,” Rhett replied. “Especially considering the visitor we had last night.”

“Do you think this lord Henrik is behind the lack of interest in the armor?” Kai asked.

“It makes sense,” Rhett answered.

“Especially since rumor has it that he is the one behind a certain Mr Barrett’s interfering with Jim’s previous deals,” Leo said.

“Wait. There is a rumor going around about us?” Jim asked.

“Yep. You’ve made waves,” Sadie replied.

“Lord Lender is indeed the one that nudged Michael to put pressure on Catfish Landing,” Layla said. “Which, it didn’t take much nudging for him to do so.”

“True. Michael has always been a greedy little prick,” Jade added. Jim stared into nothing stroking his wolf. “Jim?”

“Huh?” He asked looking up.

“You stopped paying attention,” Leo said.

“Oh. Sorry. I was just thinking.”

“About?” Rhett prompted.

“Life and how funny it can be.”

“What do you mean?” Layla asked.

“People got jealous of what I was able to do and tried to take it. That made me change some of what I was doing, and I’ve ended up in a better place because of it. Same for the rest of you,” Jim explained to nods from the others. Kayja perked up and several heads turned towards the south end of the square.

“Several people are coming, most wearing armor,” Yurie announced. A moment later a squad of heavily armored guards appeared.

“This could be trouble,” Sadie hissed.

“Do you think it is this Lender fellow?” Kai asked.

“Probably,” Jade answered to nods from most of the others.

“So much for a relaxing evening,” Leo muttered.

A couple minutes later a guard captain stopped in front of them flanked by his guards. “My name is Captain Hardy. I request that you give up your weapons peacefully.”

“And why should we do that captain?” Rhett asked. “We have done nothing wrong or broken any laws.”

“Because someone wishes to speak with Mr Merchant,” another voice answered.

“And just who might you be?” Leo asked.

“My name is Randolph and I represent her highness, Princess Augusta Albright,” the man answered.

“Do as they say guys,” Jim told the others. “I don’t want any trouble.”

“This is not wise Jim,” Kai hissed.

“On the contrary, it is. Certain arrangements were made in secret before we descended the pass,” Jim replied to raised eyebrows from the royal representative and guard captain. The hunters exchanged knowing looks and set down their bows. Rhett, Leo, and the others followed suit.

“Smart decision,” Hardy said waving three guards to take the weapons. “You’ll get this back shortly.”

“I shall return momentarily,” Randolph announced before spinning on his heel and walking away flanked by two guards.

*

“Kneel!” Captain Hardy ordered Jim and his group as a carriage entered the square and stopped just behind the guards. Leo and Jim’s guards did as instructed. Jim followed suit a moment later. The elves remained standing.

“The captain ordered you to kneel, you country simpletons!” another guard shouted at the elves before starting to draw his sword.

“Stay your hand and stand down!” a feminine voice ordered. Randolph opened the carriage door and held out his right hand. A young woman took the offered hand and stepped out of the carriage.

“I present her royal highness, the Princess Augusta Albright,” Randolph announced. Anyone else in the area quickly kneeled.

“Princess, these elves are disrespecting you and the crown,” Hardy said after bowing to the princess.

“It is alright. In truth we should consider them visitors from a neighboring kingdom even though their claimed lands reside within Praha’s borders. The rest of you may rise,” Augusta said. People did.

“You fear offending our lord,” Kai said smugly. The royal and city guards bristled at his tone.

“I do as anyone with half a brain should,” Augusta agreed. “That said, do not disrespect me in my city again!”

“I apologize on behalf of my associates your highness,” Jim quickly interjected throwing a warning look at the elves. “They are simple mountain hunters not used to city life nor having other people rule the lands they are in.”

“I accept your apology, Mr Merchant.”

“Thank you. How might I help your majesty?”

“Directly to the point. I appreciate that,” Augusta said looking around and sniffing as if the market square offended her. Jim was sure it did. “I wish to see this dragon scale armor that you are rumored to have. If the quality is up to royal standards, I will wish to purchase it.”

“I see,” Jim replied. He pulled the armor out of his inventory and sat it on the table they had been sitting around. Randolph stepped forward and examined each piece. He picked up a gauntlet and handed it to the princess. A moment later, she nodded.

“This armor is excellent work. I must have it for my father. How much do you want for it?”

“300 gold,” Jim answered to gasps from nearly everyone around them.

“Mr Merchant, this armor is not worth that many fortunes,” Augusta replied with a smile on her face.

“On the contrary, your highness, this kind of armor has not been seen in ages from what I understand.”

“I will go as high as 150 gold.”

“As you requested not to be insulted your highness, please allow me the same courtesy. The armor is worth much more than that.”

The princess’ smile grew. “I had to try. I will give you 200 gold for it.”

“275,” Jim countered.

“Is this what is called Haggling?”

“It is your majesty,” Randolph answered glaring at Jim.

“It is sort of entertaining,” Augusta replied. She turned her attention to Jim. “225.”

“Make it 255 and I will give your majesty some gifts,” Jim replied pulling one of the 2*4s from his inventory. “Leo, show her majesty some of the figurines. This board is ancient juniper wood and would make excellent furniture.”

“This is from the mountains?”

“Yes, your majesty.”

“How much of it do you have?”

“More than enough for a few pieces of furniture or a bed or two,” Jim answered while smiling. He sensed he had her. “Might I also show the princess a marble bathtub and wash basin?”

“Yes, you may,” Augusta answered with a smile of her own.

Chapter 124

“I can’t believe the princess bought every one of the luxury items we had left!” Leo gushed. Jim smiled. He didn’t really believe she had either but seeing over 300 gold in his inventory convinced him it was true.

“Me too, but it did happen. I think we need to go shopping in the morning,” Jim replied.

“Personally, I think we should leave town tonight. Like right now,” Rhett said.

“Worried about Lender?” Jim asked.

“Aye, I am,” Rhett answered. “The princess buying the armor and other wares is a great relief, but he did send that rogue as a warning.”

“I get that,” Jim replied. “But we need to get some more food, spices, and at least some fabric that I can sell or trade to the villagers.”

“More parchment would be nice too,” Leo chimed in. Jim nodded in agreement. “Perhaps some toys or sweets for the village kids as well.”

Jim turned to Leo. “You’re really getting into this merchant thing, aren’t you?”

“Aye. It’s fun!”

“Rhett, we’ll leave by noon if not before,” Jim said turning his attention back to his guard captain. “That way we can find what we need before picking up our livestock.”

“That’s a smart decision,” Yurie said walking up to them.

“Where have you been?” Leo asked.

“Checking the gate.”

“Why would you do that?”

“Working on my stealth skills. That rogue made me realize I have a way to go before my skills get where I want them.”

“Ah. Makes sense.”

“Anyway, why do you say waiting makes sense?” Jim asked.

“There are quite a few shady folks hanging around the gate as well as a few more guards than what people say are normal.”

“Then we leave in the morning when there is more traffic going in and out of the gate.”

“I’m not happy about it, but it works,” Rhett replied. “Oh Jim?”

“Yeah?”

“You had told the princess that certain precautions had been made. Was that a bluff?”

“Nope. Azure and I made arrangements at the pass.”

“When?” Leo asked.

“Remember when he knocked me over?”

“Yeah.”

“That wasn’t all he did.”

“Will you explain more?” Yurie asked.

“Let’s just say I was entrusted with a way to let him know if we were in danger or needed him to make a point,” Jim answered.

Yurie smiled and fingered a thin chain around her neck. “I think I know exactly what you mean.”

*

“I’ll have the vegetables, fruit, and spices delivered to your wagon within the hour. You must be buying for a village,” the merchant told Jim.

“Almost,” Jim replied paying the merchant half the agreed upon price. “I’ll pay the other half on delivery and a bonus for quicker delivery.”

“That is acceptable. My associate will run my shop and I will see you within the hour.”

“Thank you,” Jim replied as they shook hands. Jim exited the shop with Layla. Jade and Leo were waiting for them. Sadie had gone after their mounts. “How did it go with the fabric merchants?”

“As well as can be expected. It took a whole gold, and they’ll deliver within the hour.”

“That’s fine,” Jim said. “How did it go with your toys?”

“Found some dolls, wooden swords, and wooden animals. I have them in my inventory.”

“Alright. We should have just enough time to find some sweets.”

“I know just the shop,” Sadie said.

“Lead the way.”

*

“Are we ready?” Jim asked Rhett, Leo, and Yurie.

“I’m ready.”

“Aye, the sisters have retrieved their horses and are mounted up,” Rhett said. “I just need to get in the driver’s seat of our wagon and follow you out.”

“The others are in the other wagon and ready to go,” Yurie added. “I’ll ride with you and Leo if you don’t mind.”

“I don’t mind at all. Let’s get this show on the road. I’m ready to get home,” Jim replied. He smiled as he realized he did think of Blue Ridge as home. But more importantly, Ari was waiting.

“You have some odd phrases,” Yurie commented.

“You have no idea just how odd,” Leo replied.

“I’m right here.”

“We know”

“Get him Kayja,” Jim told his aki wolf looking back into the wagon at her. Kayja looked up, snorted, and put her head back down. “Et Tu Kayja?”

“I’m not sure what that phrase means, but I don’t think she is interested,” Yurie replied.

“Yeah. Seems that way,” Jim replied snapping the reins. “Let’s go Al. Let’s go Peggy.”

*

“Going somewhere, Mr Merchant?” Adler asked from the shadows beside the guardhouse at the gate. The guards were checking the wagons which Jim thought was silly.

Jim turned his head and faced the rogue. “Yeah. We’re leaving since we have concluded our business in Praha City.”

“That’s not a good idea. Lord Lender still wants to meet with you.”

“Do send my apologies, but we have a schedule to keep and must be on our way. Perhaps we can meet the next time I’m in the city.”

“That just won’t do,” the rogue replied as he pushed off the wall and started walking toward Jim’s wagon. “You’re coming with me.”

“Adler, stop harassing these merchants,” a male voice interrupting the rogue and causing him to stop in his tracks.

“Randolph, what do you want?”

“My task is twofold. First, I must inform you that your patron has been summoned to the palace. He requests your presence,” Randolph answered. Adler clenched his fists. “Second, I am here to see that one of her highness’ favored merchants leaves our fair city without issues.”

“Thank you, Randolph,” Jim told the man bowing at the waist. “And please thank the princess for us.”

“You have my word that I will do so. Guards, make way for the merchant and his company,” Randolph replied. Adler still had not moved. “Have a good trip Mr Merchant.”

“I hope you do as well,” Jim told the princess’ man. He snapped the reins and the wagon started through the gate.

Randolph turned to face Adler. “Adler, you’re still here?”

“I won’t forget this, Randolph.”

“See that you don’t. Now, run along back to your master,” Randolph replied. Adler’s left hand drifted to his dagger. “We both know that would be a mistake you wouldn’t live to regret.”

Adler dropped his hand, turned, and stormed toward the palace. Randolph nodded toward the gate guards and followed the rogue.

Chapter 125

“Adler, what are you doing here?” Henrik asked his servant.

“Randolph made sure to advise me you had been summoned to the palace and that I was needed, My lord.”

“Where is the merchant?”

“Randolph made sure he was allowed to pass out of the north gate.”

“And you did nothing?” Henrik hissed.

“My lord, you know as well as I that the princess’ man is over level 25, and I wouldn’t stand a chance against him even with the gate guards’ assistance.”

“Blast it all to hell! The princess is demanding that I attend her gift giving party tonight.”

“Gift giving?”

“She has a present she is giving my cousin.”

“My lord, I would hazard a guess that she is presenting the king with the dragon scale armor,” Adler replied.

“Damnation!” Henrik screamed throwing a crystal goblet against the wall behind his rogue. He pointed at Adler. “I wanted that armor for myself. Have horses prepared and gather some men for tomorrow. We will go after this merchant then.”

“My lord, would it not be best for me to go after them now?”

“No. I shall go with you and show this merchant just where his place in life is.”

“As you wish my lord,” Adler replied bowing and turning to leave.

“Adler, have someone come in and clean up this mess,” Henrik told the rogue gesturing at the broken crystal and wine staining the floor.

“Of course, my lord.”

*

“Jim, you and yours seem to be in a bit of a hurry,” Tom Rancher said.

“Aye, I noticed that too,” Floyd Pepper added. “Did something happen in the city?”

“I might have ticked off a noble by not accepting his invitation to meet,” Jim answered. The two ranchers exchanged a look.

“Which noble?” Floyd asked.

“Henrik Lender.”

“Let’s see if we can get these coos, bison, and sheep going a little faster,” Tom said urging his horse to move faster. Floyd looked at Jim and followed his neighbor.

“Is Lender that bad?” Jim asked Jade, who was riding with him.

“According to rumors, yeah.”

“That’s just great,” Jim muttered.

*

“Father, you must see this.” Princess Augusta said as she walked into the king’s study. A servant trailed her carrying one of the ancient juniper 2*4 boards she had bought from Jim. The king looked up to see what his daughter was talking about and frowned.

“Lumber? Augusta, you wanted me to see wood?”

“Not just any wood, father. Appraise it,” the princess said with a huge smile on her face. The king did so.

“Where did you get this?”

“From a merchant that came in the north gate two days ago.”

“The north gate? The Northern Mountains do not have ancient juniper trees.”

“This particular merchant did not come from there. I understand that he came from…another northeast location.”

The king looked up sharply at his daughter from the board he had been studying. “You don’t mean?”

“Yes, father. It seems the dragon has opened the pass,” Augusta replied. She turned to the servant. “Show father the wash basin.”

“Yes, your majesty,” the servant replied. He pulled one of the marble wash basins from his inventory.

“Set it on the desk,” the king instructed. The servant did so and bowed. The princess showed her father how it worked. “This stone does catch the eye. Do you think these will prove popular with the nobles?”

“I do. As you said, the stone, marble, catches the eye. It is also smoother to the touch. The enchantments are very well done as well. You should see the bathtub.”

“Bathtub?”

“Oh yes. I’m having the servants put one in mother’s and your private bathrooms. They have the same enchantments as the basins.”

“How many did you buy?”

“I bought everything the merchant had,” the princess answered. The king raised an eyebrow in question. “The palace is the center of the kingdom and should have the best of everything, should it not?”

“You’re correct my dear, it should,” the king replied. A knock at the door interrupted the pair. “Enter.”

Randolph entered the study and bowed.

“Is there something you need, Randolph?” the king asked.

“No, your majesty. I just wished to report to the princess that the merchant has left the city.”

“Thank you, Randolph. Were your talents needed?” Augusta asked.

“No, your highness. I merely had to warn Adler and he backed down.”

“What are you two talking about? What does Henrik’s servant have to do with some merchant?”

“The merchant in question is the one from the mountain pass father.”

“And word has it that Lord Lender wants Mr Merchant or at least all of his products and knowledge,” Randolph added.

“That would be a grave mistake if this merchant named Merchant is in service to the dragon,” the king stated.

“Father, I wanted this to be a surprise, but here is proof that Mr Merchant is indeed associated with the dragon,” Augusta replied pulling out the dragon scale armor from her inventory. The king gasped in shock as he examined the armor.

“This is truly real,” the king said in wonder.

“The scales match the color of the dragon too,” the princess said. The king sighed. “Randolph, send for my cousin and have him come to my study.”

“Yes, your majesty. Right away,” the princess’ servant said and left.

“Thank you for this my daughter. Present it to me as you intended. I’ll pretend to be surprised.”

“Thank you, father,” the princess said giving the king a hug.

*

“You sent for me cousin?” Henrik asked the king after bowing. His eyes found the princess standing beside her father and frowned.

“I did. Henrik, I’ll cut right to the point. I want you to leave this Jim Merchant alone.”

“Why? Why are you interfering with my business?”

“You forget who you’re talking to Henrik!” the king snapped.

“I apologize majesty. But again, I ask why? What is this merchant to you?”

“I could ask you the same. But to answer your question, this merchant is in service to the dragon, and I do not wish to anger the beast.”

Henrik looked thoughtful for a moment. “Are you sure of this majesty?”

“I am. Show him your proof Augusta.”

“Yes father,” the princess replied. She showed the armor to her second cousin as well as the juniper wood and wash basin. “These are items from the dragon’s territory and his own scales.”

“Are you sure?”

“Yes, we are,” the king answered. “If the dragon is willing to trade with us through this man, then we will do so.”

“Will I be the one in control of trading with the dragon and its merchant?” Henrik asked with a greedy gleam in his eyes. The princess started to speak but stopped when the king raised a hand.

“I feel it might be best to see what the dragon and the merchant do next before deciding our next move. I do not like it anymore than you do cousin, but it is probably the best move at this time.”

“Yes, your majesty.”

“Do not worry either. You will profit plenty even if you do not get the trade route into the dragon’s territory,” the king said. He stood and walked around his desk. “Come Henrik, let us go have a drink and relax before Augusta presents her present to me tonight.”

“Of course, cousin. Might I send word to my man to stop his planning?”

“I shall have Randolph do so for you Cousin Henrik,” Augusta offered with a grin on her face.

“That is…most kind. Thank you, princess.”

“It is my pleasure,” Augusta replied as the king and his cousin walked out of the study.

Chapter 126

“Cousin?” the king said once they were in the hall away from his study.

“Yes majesty?”

“I want you to put in an appearance at Augusta’s presentation and then slip quietly out.”

Henrik waited while the king spoke, but a grin blossomed onto his face. “You wish for me to pursue the merchant.”

“I do. I want the juniper wood and whatever other resources the dragon has cut us off from.”

“And the merchants wares.”

“Indeed. Make a deal if you must,” the king ordered. Henrik nodded his understanding.

“That is fine. I am willing to do so.”

“You will probably have to ride through the night to catch the merchant’s party,” the king warned. Henrik nodded his agreement. “Good. And Henrik?”

“Yes Sire?”

“Just don’t anger the dragon. I do not wish to lose my kingdom nor my cousin.”

“Do not worry. I wish to live so I shall not anger the beast.”

*

“Floyd, Tom, thanks for your help,” Jim told the two ranchers and shook their hands.

“It’s been our pleasure,” Floyd replied as Leo paid the two ranchers.

“Are you sure you can drive the herds up the pass and into the mountains on your own?” Tom asked. “It’s narrow enough not to need a lot of help, but I imagine it opens up further into the highlands. Some of my lads have said they wouldn’t mind going with you the rest of the way if you want them.”

“Leo, don’t forget the bonus.”

“I won’t.”

“We didn’t discuss a bonus,” Tom said. “But thank you. We appreciate it.”

“You’re welcome and help is coming,” Jim assured the ranchers. The coos, bison, and lambs fell silent as did the mules, ponies, and horses. Kayja whimpered, ran to the wagon, and jumped onto the porch before dashing inside.

“I think our help is here,” Leo quipped.

“Indeed, we have,” Leon announced as he and other hunters dropped from nearby trees.

“You’re not the help I was talking about,” Leo replied grinning at the elf.

“Is that an ant speaking?” Leon asked looking around pretending not to see Leo. “Oh! It’s good to see you too, Leo. You’re so short I didn’t see you for a moment.”

“Yeah, yeah. You’re so funny,” Leo said as Jim and the ranchers laughed. Suddenly, the herds started bellowing and bleating in fear while pawing at the ground.

“They’re going to stampede!” Floyd shouted. A great shadow passed overhead.

“What in the blue hells is that?” Tom asked.

“Why do I suddenly feel afraid for my life?” one of the ranch hands asked.

“That would be our lord,” Kai said from the top of Jim’s wagon as the shadow turned and settled over the pass as Azure landed on a rock outcropping. The dragon stared at the herds, and they fell silent as did the mounts.

“They weren’t kidding about serving a dragon!” Layla exclaimed as her sisters stared in slack jawed wonder.

“No, we were not,” Yurie agreed. She and the other villagers bowed to their lord.

“You may rise.” Azure swung his head to Jim and the others. “Still not bowing I see.”

“I don’t want your ego to get out of control,” Jim replied. Azure gave one of his dragon smiles to the merchant as the ranchers and their helpers stared on fearfully.

“Are these others more, new villagers?”

“Only the three sisters,” Jim answered gesturing to Jade, Sadie, and Layla. “Rhett hired them as guards. The others are ranchers and their hands I bought the herds from. I paid them to assist in getting the livestock into the pass.”

“I thank you for assisting my people,” Azure told the ranchers. “I trust you have been rewarded.”

“W…we…we have my lord,” Floyd stammered out.

“Then, unless you wish to join us in Blue Ridge, I suggest you leave so I may close the pass.”

“Y…ye…yes, my lord,” Tom stuttered. The ranchers and their hands quickly mounted their horses and left. Azure turned from them to study the herds.

“I expected more bison,” Azure said. “But you made up for it with a lot of hairy coos. I haven’t had a coo in years.” Azure smacked his lips.

“Don’t even think about it, lizard brain!” Jim nearly shouted. The others stared at Jim in shock. “The cows are mine.”

Azure laughed. “Don’t make me drop you onto another mountain.”

“I’ll find a way to glue your mouth shut if you do when I come back,” Jim replied. “Oops.” He turned to the sisters. “I’ll explain that later, or Rhett can.”

“You would deny me beef?”

“Yes. You’re staring at my coos like they are the best thing in the world.”

“It’s beef, Jim.”

“I know and I love a good steak as much as the next guy…” Jim started and stared at Azure. “Ok, maybe not as much as the next guy since that guy is a dragon.”

“My lord! Riders approach at a rapid pace,” Kas shouted from the mouth of the pass.

Azure swung his gaze in that direction. “Hmmm. All but one is wearing armor.”

“I’m going to assume that is Henrik Lender and his men,” Rhett said.

“Who is this Lender?” Azure asked.

“One of the nobles from Praha City. He wanted to meet with Jim but was turned down by Jim and then again as we left the city by one of the princess’ men on our behalf.”

“Interesting. Yurie take the hunters and other helpers from the village and start moving the herds towards home. They will not give you trouble.”

“Yes, my lord,” the huntress replied.

“Jim, you and I will wait for this human lord and deal with him. I assume your guards will want to stay as well.”

Jim looked at the others and received nods in return. “Yep, they want to stay.”

“I’m going to eat one of your cows for helping you deal with this Lender fellow.

“Come on! Eat a few sheep or a bison.”

“No. I want roasted beef.”

“Fine. You can have a small one, you flying stomach.”

Chapter 127

“Azure?”

“Yes Jim?”

“Would you mind making an entrance?”

“I don’t mind at all,” Azure replied giving Jim a dragon grin. “I think I’ll climb up the pass’ wall since they would see me if I took flight.”

“What? You can’t just disappear or make yourself look like a rock?”

“Jim, I’m going to eat one of the large coos for that remark,” Azure replied before turning to climb up the mountainside.

“I can’t believe you just teased a dragon!” Layla exclaimed.

“Jim, you’re crazy,” Jade said.

“I found it makes me want to take Jim to bed,” Sadie added. Leo coughed to cover up a laugh.

“You just love doing that to him, don’t you?” Rhett asked.

“Yeah, I do,” Jim admitted. “Like I said before, he needed a friend.”

“Jim, Azure is a dragon. Dragons aren’t like us,” Layla countered.

“Maybe, maybe not. Why else would he let me get away with teasing him if he didn’t want to be friendly?”

“Because you brought him food,” Leo quipped. “Seriously though, I think you’re right in that he wanted a friend as strange as that may be.”

“We can talk about it on the way home,” Jim said. “Put your game faces on, the riders are almost here. Jade, Sadie, stay with the wagons please, I’m not sure what Azure will do, but let’s keep the animals under control if possible.”

*

“Mr Merchant, I’m pleasantly surprised you have not made us chase you down further,” Henrik said in lieu of an introduction. “I have so looked forward to making your acquaintance.”

“Lord Lender I can’t say the same,” Jim replied to shocked expressions from Henrik’s men and his party. “Your reputation precedes you.”

“If it does, then I cannot imagine why you would not want to meet with me.”

“I’ve heard less than flattering things about you and was on my way home after making the deals I needed to make. I’m afraid I have nothing left to sell or trade to you.”

“Ah. That is fine. I was not interested in buying from you. No, what I want is your knowledge and new products.”

“I’m afraid neither is for sale.”

“I see I must repeat myself. I am not interested in purchasing your knowledge or products. I want you to give them to me,” Henrik replied with a smug look on his face. “In return, I will make sure you have unrestricted access to every city, town, or village in the realm as long as you pay your 50% tax on each sale.”

Jim’s friends and guards bristled, which caused Henrik’s men to reach for their weapons while muttering. Henrik held up a hand silencing his men.

“It’s alright guys,” Jim said. He turned his attention back to Henrik. “And I suppose if I don’t agree to your terms, you’ll have me imprisoned, killed, or whatever.”

Henrik shrugged. “All of those are possible.”

“I’m afraid I’ll have to turn down your offer,” Jim said. “I’ve already made another deal.”

“Ah. You speak of the supposed dragon that has not been seen since before my father was born,” Henrik replied. His men gasped and their horses started to stomp and snort in fear.

“My lord!”

“What is it Adler?” Henrik asked in frustration as he fought his mount.

“Dragon!” one of his men exclaimed.

“It’s real!” another shouted.

Azure roared causing the horses to buck and throw several men to the ground including Henrik. Rhett, Leo, and Layla rushed to help Jade and Sadie with the ponies, horses, and mules. A few seconds later, Henrik’s and his men’s horses turned and bolted out of the pass. Al, Peggy, the ponies, and horses fell silent a second later as Azure did whatever he does to control animals.

“I hope Kayja didn’t mess up the inside of the wagon,” Jim muttered. Azure chuckled before turning his attention to the human lord and his men.

“Human, you have trespassed into my domain while admitting you want my servant. Why should I let you live?” Azure asked Henrik.

“I…I…”

Adler overcame his shock and went into stealth. He decided to grab a hostage. Jim or the dwarf merchant would do nicely. The rogue started moving as quickly as he dared as his lord stuttered like a fool. The dragon swung its head to face Adler and the rogue froze. He then went flying into the mountainside as Azure swung his tail into the rogue.

“The next time someone tries to attack my servants, they will not live to tell the tale,” Azure hissed. “Is that clear?”

Adler groaned as he tried to sit up. The other guards all nodded in agreement to what Azure had spoken.

“This is my cousin’s kingdom. How dare you give orders?” Henrik said after finding his voice.

Azure laughed. “No human. This land is mine. It has not been a part of Praha for many years, and you are fortunate that I have no desire for the lowlands you humans call yours. Only an elder dragon could take this territory from me, and they all already have their preferred lands.”

“My lord,” Jim said interrupting.

“Yes, my merchant?” Azure replied with a grin on his face.

“Might I suggest you let these humans go so the king of Praha does not want revenge for his cousin and tries to fight a war he would lose?”

“You wish to avoid bloodshed?”

“I do. We can’t profit from the dead.”

“Hmmm. I agree,” Azure said. Focusing on Henrik and his men, he spoke,” You will exit my pass and not return. I shall leave it open so merchants can travel to Blue Ridge to trade. But if any of you are with any merchant that is brave enough to come, your lives are forfeit and you will not return to the lowlands. Do you understand?”

“Y…yes,” Henrik and his men replied.

“Jim, you and yours mount up and go. I shall remain behind to make sure the humans leave.”

“Lord Azure.”

“Go. I give my word that I shall not kill them today unless they refuse to leave my lands.”

*

“Jim, are you going to open the shop tomorrow?” Ari asked as they watched the sun set from the deck over the shop’s back door several months later. Snow covered the mountains and the fading sunlight glistened off the peaks.

“No love. Leo likes running the shop alone.”

“Ah. Husband, is that why you’ve been spending more time with me lately?”

“Not really. I’ve been spending time with you because I love you. And I like spending time taking care of you and our little one you carry,” Jim answered stroking Ariana’s extended stomach.

“Good. Help me up and then cook me a hamburger. Some snow cream and fries would be good too.”

“As you wish, Ari,” Jim replied. He looked back toward the sunset after pulling Ari to her feet. “That flying son of a…”

“What?”

Jim walked to the railing and shouted at a certain dragon carrying a cow in its claws,” That’s the third coo this month you beef eating winged menace!”

Ariana laughed as Azure replied, “There is still 170 more.”

“That’s beside the point!” Jim yelled back. Azure laughed. “I really need to find a way to glue or sew his mouth shut.”

“You know that won’t work. You’ll just have to suck it up and buy more coos. And this time make sure Azure at least helps pay for them.”

“Good idea.”

“Yep. Now come on! It’s cold and I’m hungry.”

End

“I don’t know why I let Jim talk me into bringing you into my territory,” Azure told Skarn before blasting the coo with flame.

“Me protect land and village from small people and predators.”

“Don’t hurt my dwarven villagers.”

“No. Not the tiny people.”

“By small, do you mean the humans, elves, and orcs that are bandits and warriors?” Azure asked the stone troll.

“Um,” Skarn replied scratching its head. “Yes. Them.”

“Ah.”

“Coo smell good. Skarn eat!”

“No! Skarn will not eat any of my coo,” Azure warned. “Skarn can have a sheep or bison.”

“Jim get mad at Skarn for eating woolies and humps.”

“Jim got mad at you for eating sheep and bison?”

“Uh huh.”

“And what about the coos?”

“Me haven’t eaten before. Jim warn that flying stomach eat Skarn if me eat coo.”

“Oh, that smart man. I applaud his thought process,” Azure said more to himself that the stone troll.

“What thought process?”

“Never mind. I will share some of my coo with you,” Azure replied ripping off a leg and dropped it on the ground for Skarn.

Skarn picked up the leg and tore off a chunk of the roasted bovine flesh with its teeth. Skarn nearly swallowed it whole. “Hmmm! Yummy!”

“Don’t talk with your mouth full,” Azure said before biting into the coo’s stomach.

“Sorry. Skarn now have new favorite meat!”

“Remember Jim’s warning,” Azure replied seeing the troll eyeing the coos in the pasture. “I will eat you if you touch my coos.”

“Your coos? Me thought them Jim’s coos.”

“I let him think so,” Azure replied as Skarn finished off the leg.

“Me still hungry.”

“Don’t even think about it.”

“Think what?” Skarn asked before ripping the head off the coo and shoving the nose in its mouth.

“Now I know how Jim feels when I eat a coo.”

Fin

A Trader Jim’s Christmas

“Jim, why do we need a special tree for?” Ari asked as the couple along with Kayja, Dusk, two of their half orc sister guards, and two of the hunters prepared to leave the village. The wolves were mostly just laying down waiting on the people.

“You could stay home instead of coming out with me to find the tree,” Jim replied taking Ariana’s hand. He rubbed her stomach with his other hand. Ari slapped it away.

“I’ve barely started to show, I’m not crippled. A walk in the cold, snow covered forest is fine,” Ari retorted.

“Alright. I’m just trying to look out for you.”

“I know, but you’re being overbearing.”

“Jim, I hate to interrupt, but is there a specific kind of tree you are looking for?” Kai asked.

“One with a pyramid shape between six and eight feet tall,” Jim answered.

“You want a mountain fir, blue pine, or green cypress then,” Leon replied.

“I wasn’t aware that firs, pines, and cypress trees were a thing here,” Jim said perking up. “Those sound perfect and like what we used where I’m from.”

“We’ll need to take a wagon to get to them since they grow down the valley about an hour from the village and walking in the cold and snow will not be fun for the rest of you,” the large hunter replied. Kai grinned at that last statement.

“Peggy and Al will not be happy about this,” Jim muttered.

Ari kissed his cheek. “That’s why you’re going to harness them on your own.”

Jim walked to the shop’s door and hopefully looked back. Ari just pointed to the door.

“Have fun, Jim!” Leo chirped from behind the counter.

*

“Come on Al! You’re a jackstock, not a donkey,” Jim complained to his mule. He tugged on the reins again. The big beast refused to move out of his stall. Jim dropped the reins and looked at Peggy. She looked at him, then to the open stable doors, then back at Jim, and shivered. “Et tu Peggy?”

The female jackstock ignored him.

“Having trouble lad?” Abel asked as he entered the stable.

“Just a little. It seems they both think they’re donkeys today.”

“Can’t blame them. It’s cold.”

Jim grinned. “I think I know how to trick them out.”

“Oh?”

“Yeah. You might want to move from the doors though.”

Abel stepped to the side as Jim took an apple out of his inventory and took a bite. He hadn’t given the mules one in days since his supply was running low. “Hmmm! So good.”

Abel laughed as Peggy and Al swung their heads towards Jim. Peggy reached for the apple first, only for Jim to move it out of her reach. Al reached for it next, only for Jim to hop away from the pair. Jim pulled a second apple from his inventory and waved both at the mules.

“If you want the apples, you’ll have to leave your stalls,” Jim told the two as he started walking backwards towards the doors. The jackstocks followed.

“I don’t know why you don’t force your will on them through the bond.”

“Doesn’t feel right to do so.”

“Fair enough,” Abel replied following the mules and Jim to the wagon. Abel helped Jim harness the mules.

“Thanks for the help. Is there something you need, Abel? You didn’t come out here just to help.”

“Nah. I don’t need a thing, and just wanted to let you know Kyra and I finished the last of the gifts you asked us to make as well as those strange stands.”

“Thanks.”

“The glass workers and other crafters finished the ornaments you wanted.”

“That’s excellent news,” Jim replied while petting Al’s side. “We’re going after the trees as soon as I drive the wagon around.”

“The villagers are curious about all this and what you want it for. And I admit I am as well,” Abel said while petting Peggy’s side.

“You’ll see,” Jim replied climbing up onto the wagon. “If things work the way I want, we’ll start a new tradition and hopefully make some coin while doing so.”

“People only get gifts on their birthday or wedding anniversary,” Abel said as Jim went into the wagon to release the rear brake.

“It’s called Christmas,” Jim said coming back to the front and sitting in the driver’s seat.

“This is something from your other world?”

“Yep. I think, well, hope people will like it here too,” Jim answered as he released the brake. Snapping the reins to get the mules moving, he called back to Abel,” Don’t worry. I made sure to get you a gift too.”

Abel shook his head and smiled. He really liked his odd employer.

*

“Gladys, what are you doing in the middle of the path in this cold?” Ariana asked the older woman as Jim stopped the wagon.

“Ha. It’s not cold yet, and I was waiting for your fool companion. Here,” the woman said tossing up a small item to Ari, who barely caught it. “I think they turned out well.”

“What is it?” Jade asked sticking her head out the door. Jim Appraised the object. They looked at the miniature crocheted Hairy Coo Ari held in her hands.

{Hairy Coo Toy Value 10 Coppers True Worth 2 Coppers}

“You asked the elders to make Coos, Jim?” Jade asked.

“Yeah, Jim answered smiling. “It’s a neat toy, isn’t it? And yes, Gladys, you ladies did very well.”

“Hmph. Here, take this one too,” the old woman said tossing up an even smaller crocheted coo. Jade caught it.

“What’s with the loop and why is it so small?” the guard asked.

{Hairy Coo Ornament Value 5 Coppers True Worth 1 Copper}

“It’s a coo ornament,” Jim answered. “We’ll hang a few on the trees when we get them back.”

“Why would you do that?” Gladys asked.

“You’ll see,” Jim replied. “How many did you make of each?”

“A hundred over the last couple months. The children that have seen them, want one since you won’t give away the calves. And it was hard work for old hands!”

“If I gave everyone a calf, I won’t have a herd with the way Skarn and Azure like to sneak one or two away every other week.

“The calves are adorable,” Ari added.

“I’ll have Leo pay you a bonus when he collects them later today,” Jim promised. Gladys smiled.

“Seeing the lad is a bonus,” the older woman cackled. She turned and walked back towards her house.

“Really Jim? Sending Leo to those three?” Ari asked.

Jim shrugged. “It does him good to face those three.”

“I feel sorry for Leo,” Jade said.

“I’m sending you with him,” Jim replied as Ari put the coo toy and ornament into her inventory.

*

{Immature Mountain Fir Value 50 Copper True Worth 10 Copper}

“I want those twos,” Jim said pointing to the six-foot trees. “They’ll make great Christmas trees.”

“You still haven’t explained what this Christmas is,” Ari said.

“Nor have you explained how we are cutting them down,” Kai added.

“Christmas is a holiday and tradition where friends and family gather together to exchange gifts and spend time together. It originally was in celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ, who is a God, where I’m from.”

“Ah. We have similar celebrations, depending on what gods one believes in, but not the gift giving,” Jade replied.

“Right. As for how we will cut the trees down, that’s what he is for,” Jim said pointing up as Azure descended towards the juvenile forest, they were in. The hunters bowed to the dragon.

“Jim, why should I help you with cutting down an immature tree?”

“Because you and Skarn have been stealing coos from my herd.”

“I don’t know what you are talking about.”

“Is that so?”

“It is.”

“So, I shouldn’t have Skarn tell us the story of how good you are for sharing a coo with him every two weeks for the last few months again?”

Azure sighed. “That will not be necessary.”

“You’ve hardly touched the sheep or bison either.”

“The coos are just so good.”

“And we won’t have any if you two keep eating them!”

“That wouldn’t be good.”

“No, it wouldn’t. Promise me you’ll cut back for a few months, and I’ll give you each a coo for Christmas.”

“That is acceptable. Thank you. Don’t worry about picking the coos out, Skarn and I will do that,” Azure replied licking his lips. Jim sighed as the others laughed. The dragon pulled the first tree up and then the second.  “I’ll drop these off in your yard,” Azure said before flying off with the trees.

“That was easy enough,” Ari said looping her arm through Jim’s.

“Yeah.”

“Do you think they’ll stop taking so many coos?”

“Yeah, I do. Azure gave his word after all.”

*

“So that is how the trees sit in the stands,” Rhett said as Jim got up from tightening the screws into the first tree.

“And the bowl is for water, so the tree doesn’t dry out?” Leo asked.

“Yep,” Jim answered. “Let’s do the one for the shop now.”

“Alright,” Rhett replied.

“Oh, Leo.”

“What?”

“You and Jade need to go get the coo toys and ornaments from your favorite crafters,” Jim said.

“No!”

Rhett laughed. “Better you than me.”

“Come on Jim!”

“Sorry pal. I can’t do it since I have to show Ari and the others how to decorate the trees.”

“Let’s go Leo. I’ll get you home in one piece,” Jade promised.

“I want hazard pay!” Leo said.

“No way. Think of it as another learning experience.”

*

“The little wire hooks were a smart thing to think of,” Remi said as she hung a glass icicle on the shop tree.

“Yeah, they work well for all the ornaments Jim had made,” Eloise replied hanging a red glass apple ornament on the tree.

“I can see the appeal of this,” Kyra added hanging a blue glass dragon. “It really could become popular.”

“What is the point of the little colored beads on the wire?” Layla asked.

“Those are enchanted to turn off and on by touching the bigger one on the end,” Kyra replied. I’m not sure why Jim wanted them though.”

“Have some patience and you’ll see,” Jim said walking in carrying a tray of teacups with Ari, who was carrying a tray of cookies.

“The tree looks…nice,” Ari said after looking it over. “Good work ladies.”

“It’ll look better if Jim would let us put the star on top,” Sadie grumbled.

“It goes on last,” Jim replied.

“And why are you having us do this now instead of in a week, which is when you said this Christmas happens?” Remi asked.

“I hope that seeing the tree, ornaments, and toys will make the rest of the villagers interested in Christmas.”

“And that they buy them,” Eloise concluded.

“That too,” Ari answered for Jim.

He laughed. “Yeah, that too.”

*

“Ok, that does look good,” Leo admitted to nods from the others as they gazed at the lit-up tree from outside the shop. The sun had begun to set, so the enchanted glass bulbs shone brightly. “I had my doubts.”

“Aye lass. I think we all did,” Abel agreed.

“Different colored glass bulbs might be a good too,” Remi remarked. Jim grinned. He was pleased that someone else had thought of that. Remi continued, “I think I would like to see different colored lights.”

“I think we need to get a tree for downstairs,” Remi said.

“Aye. It’s only fair since Ari and Jim have the one in their upstairs rooms,” Eloise added. She spun to her husband. “You’ll have to get us one tomorrow.”

The others laughed. Several villagers stopped back to look at the tree and asked about it. Especially after their children saw it.

Ari leaned into Jim, and he wrapped his arms around her. Smiling she said, “Looks like you were right.”

“Yeah, that happens sometimes,” Jim replied. That comment earned him a poke in the ribs.

*

Christmas morning came and the coo toys had not sold as Jim had hoped. The ornaments had sold very well though and Jim had spotted several children playing with them instead of the ornaments being hung on trees.

“I don’t think I overpriced the toys,” Jim told Ari as they cleaned up after breakfast.

“Me either, but I can’t blame people for buying the cheaper option when the only real difference is the size.”

“Yeah. I guess. I suppose if we are going to sell them as toys, there needs to be more options in color at least.”

“Or other animals,” Ari replied.

“That too,” Jim agreed.

“So, what do you want to do with the toys?”

“I don’t know. I guess let Leo try to sell them on his next trip to Praha City in a couple of weeks, so I don’t lose the coin. Azure promised to make sure the pass was clear enough for travel then.”

“He likes the ‘taxes’ Leo’s trips make him.”

“That’s true.”

“Why don’t we give some of the toys away to the village children?” Ari asked smiling at Jim.

“Lost coin?”

“Don’t be a Scrooge.”

“I shouldn’t have told you that story,” Jim replied smiling back. “Alright, I’ll get the others and we’ll go give gifts to the kids.”

“Jim?”

“Yeah?”

“Merry Christmas.”

“Merry Christmas to you too, Ari.”

*

“Skarn happy Jim gave coo to Azure and Skarn,” the troll said ripping off a leg off the roasted coo.

“Yes, it was quite a change for him,” Azure replied. “He said it was a Christmas gift.”

“What is Christmas?”

“Some holiday from his homeland.”

“What is holiday?”

“A…never mind. Skarn, eat your coo.”

“Ok Azure.”

End

Bonus Tales

These are a couple of short stories as a thank you to everyone that has read and/or bought this book.

Endlessly Questing

“Thanks guys!” I said as my eyes locked onto the deluxe VR pod that had just been delivered by Circuit Buy. The pod looked like a tanning bed with a few extra attachments. The pod had set me back $5000 but I felt it would be worth it. Not only did it allow for full immersion, but it allowed for longer sessions. The pod had potty attachment as well as feeding tubes.

“Yeah, no problem.”

“Enjoy it.”

“Louie, be sure to give the intercourse functions a try and let us know if it really is as good as the real thing,” the tech said while grinning as he followed the two delivery guys out of my apartment. Yeah, the pod could simulate sex too. Not that that I cared about those functions…much.

“Uh, yeah. I’ll think about that,” I replied trailing them to the door. The tech seemed to be trying to be discreet and hang around a little.

“That’s what they all say and then try it out as soon as possible.”

“Uh huh. Well, thanks again,” I said shutting my door. Of course, I was going to try out the sex in Endlessly Questing. Being able to do whatever you want was one of the huge draws of the game.

I heard the tech tell the others, “The asshole wouldn’t tip.”

“Now I just have to wait for the five terabyte Endlessly Questing download to finish and then I can live my fantasies, do what I want to people, and sell the loot to make a living,” I said to myself as I rubbed my hands together. “I wonder if I could use a spoon to gut someone.”

*

“Nutrient paste is full. So is the water reservoir,” I said to myself as I checked the pod one last time. “The potty is empty too.”

I opened the pod and sat on the bed. I attached the potty attachment. It doubled as the intercourse attachment. I laid down and pulled the door shut. I put the nutrient and water straws into my mouth.

{Before activating your Endlessly Questing VR Pod, a valid credit card is required to be associated with your account. Please enter the required information now.}

“Oh, come on!” I exclaimed opening the door and getting out of the pod. I walked into my bedroom and came back with my credit card. I entered the information.

{Thank you. Your credit card is valid and now associated with your account. Enjoy your play!}

The pod activated as I closed my eyes. “Too bad this thing doesn’t work as a tanning bed too.”

{Bottomline Games appreciates your suggestion. Future pods may incorporate this feature.}

“I didn’t expect a system notice so quickly,” I said to myself as I opened my eyes. I was in a simple stone room facing different species versions of myself. There was an elf, orc, dwarf, and several beastkin versions of me. “Well, that makes character creation simple. Wait, I can’t make a female character or change my appearance any?”

{If you would like to make a different sex character, the gender bender module is available for the low price of $10.00 since this is your first character. The body modification module is available and on sell for $10 for new characters as well. Regular prices for both modules are $29.99. Would you like to purchase either of these options?}

“No thanks.”

{Then choose your race and begin your Endless Questing.}

I planned on playing a rogue or some other criminal type character, so I dismissed the human, dwarf, and most of the beastkins. That left me with the elf, orc, and a leopard based beastkin. The beastkin didn’t appeal to me much, so I dismissed it. That left me with the orc and elf. The orc looked powerful and vicious with its tusks jutting out of his mouth. The elf looked cunning and was the most handsome of the fantasy versions of me. That should help with getting some hot VR loving. Plus, people always sided with the beautiful people.

“I want to be the elf me.”

{Your choice has been made and cannot be undone unless you purchase the character reroll module for $49.99. Would you like to purchase this module?”}

“No.”

{Once again, your choice cannot be undone. Since you do not want the character reroll module, the only way to undo your selection is by creating a new character. This can be done with the new game plus module which is available for purchase for $59.99. Would you like to buy it?}

“No,” I said once more.

{Then prepare yourself for your dreams to come to life by watching this advert from one of our fine sponsors.}

“You have got to be kidding me. There are ads?” I complained as an ad played for some fast-food pizza chain. I closed my eyes and could still see the ad. “Unbelievable!”

*

I opened my eyes and found myself in a small village. Most of the homes were small and could best be described as huts. There were a few that were larger and looked more like log cabins. The largest buildings looked like a Greek temple and what I guessed was an inn.

“You’re blocking the road!”

“Get out of the way!”

I stopped my gawking and realized I was standing in the way of a wagon with two people sitting on the front bench angrily gesturing at me. I stepped out of the roadway and waved. The two on the wagon flipped me off on their way past. I returned the gesture. That was certainly lifelike. Bottomline wasn’t kidding about the immersion.

“I wonder if there are save points.”

{It looks like you are requesting system help concerning save locations. The help module is available for purchase for the low, low price of $9.99. Would you like to buy the help module?}

“Yes,” I answered. A second later the information appeared in front of me.

{Your progress can be saved at any temple, monument, or shrine. Saves can also be made at any dungeon entrance.}

“I’m surprised they didn’t charge per save.”

{The cost per save is $1. Just kidding.}

“Just great. The system or whatever is trying to show a sense of humor. I need to check my stats.”

{Character Sheets are available for purchase for the $19.99. Alternately, players can choose a sponsored character sheet for $9.99. Sponsored sheets contain ads.}

“You’ve got to be joking.”

{This is not a joke and is part of the minimalist streamlined interface.}

“What about stat points and levels?” I asked since the help interface responded to voice commands. Passing NPCs looked at me like I was crazy and talking to myself. I ignored them.

{Stats points are rewarded at each level up. They may be used then or saved. Banked as the kids say. Levels are gained when enough experience is accumulated. Like in the real world, experience is rewarded for doing.}

“How do I know what level I am and how much experience I need to advance to the next level?”

{Character Sheets are available for purchase for the $19.99. Alternately, players can choose a sponsored character sheet for $9.99. Sponsored sheets contain ads.}

“What about a mini map?”

{The map module is available for purchase for $29.99. This includes a map and mini map. Sponsored map modules may be purchased for $14.99. Sponsored modules contain ads and other sponsor logos. Would you like to purchase this module?}

“Fuck me.”

“I beg your pardon.”

“Why, I never!”

“Not talking to you ladies,” I said after noticing the two women who had stopped.

{Sex may happen at brothels, taverns, inns, alleyways, or anywhere else two creatures decide to do so. This can include animals and corpses if you are so inclined. Sex may be forced, freely given, or bought. Would you like to purchase a map with the nearest brothel marked on it?}

“Gah! This is ridiculous and no, I don’t want to buy a blasted map,” I said to the system, nobody, and everybody. I started walking down the street. “Let’s see if I can get into some trouble and cool off.”

Part 2

“Can’t believe I died again. This is ridiculous,” I cursed and complained as I waited for the 10-minute forced wait to respawn to complete.

{It looks like you are having issues. Would you be interested in a starter pack to help ease your way?}

I groaned in frustration. Bottomline must be monitoring every person playing. “What starter packs are available?”

{There are several currently available. We will list those that will be most helpful based off your playstyle.}

“Ok,” I said. The system three for me.

{Ranger Kit: This starter pack is for players that want to keep their distance and play a little stealthier. It includes a complete set of leather armor, composite bow, 50 broadhead arrows, expanded inventory, food, three health potions, a hand axe, a dagger, two levels in stealth, and 20 gold. Note: One gold is equal to one dollar. Price $49.99}

{Rogue Kit: This starter pack is for players that want to be stealthy while traveling the darker paths. It includes a blackened linen gambeson and vambraces, blackened strider knee length boots, gray linen pants and shirt, black fingerless gloves, cowl, two long daggers, six throwing knives, composite bow, 50 broadhead arrows, expanded inventory, food, three health potions, a dozen lockpicks, garrote, two levels in stealth, and 20 gold. Note: One gold is equal to one dollar. Price $59.99}

{Gothic Kit: This starter pack is for players that want to be stealthy while traveling the darker paths or just embrace their inner goth. It includes a blackened linen gambeson and vambraces, blackened strider knee length boots, black leather pants, white shirt, black fingerless gloves, two long daggers, six throwing knives, composite bow, 50 broadhead arrows, expanded inventory, food, three health potions, a dozen lockpicks, garrote, black hair color, makeup, two levels in stealth and brooding, and 20 gold. Note: One gold is equal to one dollar. Price $59.99}

{Pink Princess Kit: This starter pack is for players that want to increase their charisma or embrace their inner princess. It includes a pink tutu, pink hose, pink ballet slippers, a tiara, food, three health potions, makeup, multiple hair colors, increased attractiveness, two levels in charisma, dance moves, and 20 gold. Note: One gold is equal to one dollar. Price $39.99}

“You have got to be kidding! What’s with those last two packs?”

{Different strokes for different folks. Bottomline Games does not judge anyone for their choices or tastes.}

“I’ll take the sponsored map module and the rogue starter pack,” I told the system.

{Thank you for your purchases. Would you like to equip your new gear now?}

“Ah, sure.”

{Your new gear will be equipped when you respawn. Now enjoy this ad from John’s Cola. Drinking a John’s will see you in the john.}

*

I climbed through a second story window. And waited in the dark room to make sure nobody stirred. The two levels of stealth were paying off as I had ghosted right by a few people and guards including whoever was sleeping in this room. The mayor’s home was my best chance at a quick payday. I checked my map. A large TacoVille logo was plastered on it that faded into a smaller logo in the northwest corner.

“That sucks,” I muttered. I was sick of the ads already. “Can I upgrade to the non-sponsored modules?”

{Yes. Upgrades are allowed. You will have to pay the reminder of the non-sponsored module prices. Would you like to upgrade both of your modules?”

“Yes,” I hissed. I was aware of the person in the room and didn’t want to talk too loudly.

{Your upgrades are complete. Thank you for your purchases.}

“Yeah, yeah,” I muttered under my breath as I slipped out of the bedroom and started down the hall. I decided to look for the mayor’s office downstairs and see if there was a safe there. I should probably check his bedroom too but didn’t want to press my luck, so I carefully headed downstairs.

*

I slipped into the office only to have a blade pressed into my back. “Who are you?”

“I’m the one with the blade, so I’ll be the one asking questions. Who are you and where did you get the sweet armor and hood?”

“I’m Louie,” I answered. I figured this was another player by his tone of voice and comment about my armor. “The armor is part of the rogue starter pack.”

“Louie like the king or song?”

“Neither as far as I know.”

“You paid for one of those?” he asked moving the knife out of my back. “And no, I don’t want to buy the multimedia module for $79.99”

“Yeah. I got tired of being killed. You got a prompt because you mentioned a song?”

“Un huh. Don’t blame you for buying the pack. I’ve been considering doing so myself. Are there any other perks in the pack?” he asked. “And I’m Kirk by the way. Nice to meet you, Louie.”

“Nice meeting you too. I guess you’re here to rob the mayor too,” I replied. Kirk nodded in agreement. “The pack has some food, supplies, weapons, and such as well as two levels in stealth.”

“Sweet. Want to work together?”

“Ah, sure. Have you found the safe?”

“Nope. I just finally got in here when you opened the door behind me.”

“Ok. You take the left side and I’ll take the right.”

“Fair enough,” Kirk agreed. He found the safe in a hidden compartment in a bookcase. “Found it.”

“Might want to check it for traps or alarms,” I said.

“Good idea. I don’t know how though.”

“Me either,” I replied. I grunted as Kirk stifled a laugh. We both got prompts.

{It seems you are trying to break into a safe without the proper knowledge or skills. This can be solved by trial and error or better yet, purchasing the Thieves’ Skill Pack. The skill pack includes the journeyman level of the following skills: awareness, inspect, safe cracking, lock picking, detect trap, detect alarm, disable trap, disable alarm pickpocketing, and sleight of hand. The price is $49.99. Would you like to purchase it?}

“Did you get a prompt about the thieves’ skill pack?” I asked.

“Yep. It’s tempting too since I’m sure this safe has at least an alarm on it.”

“Yeah. Fucking Bottomline is a good name for developers,” I replied.

“Yeah. Because it sure seems that is all they care about. I’m buying it though.”

“Me too,” I agreed while purchasing the skill pack. Opening the safe was anticlimactic after that. The contents were 100 gold, two necklaces, and two rings. The rings were worth 10 gold each and the necklaces 15 gold apiece.

“Well, that sucked donkey balls,” Kirk complained after we divided the loot.

“Especially since we bought the skill pack, but we did come out slightly ahead.

“True. Well, I’m heading on out.”

“Yeah, me too. I’ll go out the way I came in so if one of us gets spotted, the other should be able to get away.”

“Cool. That’s a good plan. We should stay in touch.”

“Alright,” I agreed.

{It looks like you wish to contact another player. The communications module is available for $29.99. Would you like to purchase it?}

“Greedy mofos,” Kirk said.

“Yeah,” I agreed. “Seems streamlined interface means no interface and we charge you for anything you want or need.”

Kirk laughed. “Yeah, but I’m buying it though.”

“Me too,” I said authorizing the purchase. We added each other to our contacts and split up.

Part 3

I slipped up behind the guard and slowly stood up. I covered the woman’s mouth and stabbed her in the left side of her chest. I stabbed a second time to make sure she was dead as I felt her body slump against me. I gently sat her down and wiped my dagger on her clothing to clean the blood off. Part of me was thrilled the kill had been easy while the rest of me was disgusted that it had been so easy for me to do. I drug the body into a nearby bush. I decided to loot the corpse.

{It appears you want to loot this body. Looting is a time-consuming task, adds to the risk of being discovered, and can be quite messy. The auto looting module makes looting a breeze. Immediately after killing an enemy, opening a container, or breaking into a chest or safe, the contents are moved to your inventory. This includes group kills so there are no issues sharing loot. This super handy module is available for $19.99. Would you like to purchase the auto looting module?}

“Uh, sure,” I replied

{Thank you for your purchase. Go forth and loot your little heart out!}

“Ugh. I think the system messages are getting worse.”

{Stop your whining. We’re working on things. The guard’s loot has been added to your inventory.}

“And quit monitoring everything I say or do!” I exclaimed stepping out of the shadows and walking into the street.

{You should have read the EULA that you gave implicit agreement to by playing Endlessly Questing before starting to play. This sponsored message is brought to you by our legal department and the fine folks at Watson and Wilkens Attorneys at Law.}

“Well, fuck me.”

“Hee hee. Sure honey, I’ll do that,” an old, overweight, and wrinkled female dwarf said latching onto my waist. I looked down and the dwarf smiled. Several teeth were missing, and the rest were rotten or stained.

“Get off me!” I shouted and pushed the dwarf away. I started walking faster. “As if! She even had a beard.”

Several people were nearby and laughed as they witnessed the incident. I decided I just wanted to log out. I pulled up the menu and noticed the logout button was grayed out.

{It appears you want to logout. Bottomline Games had originally planned on having players stay in the game until they paid for the logout feature. Our legal department decided this was illegal and could be considered kidnapping, torture, unusual punishment, and possible leave the developers open to unlawful death lawsuits as well as possible murder charges if things went bad enough.}

“You’ve got to be kidding me.”

{So, the legal department decided to update the EULA. All gamers must agree to the new EULA before being allowed to logout of Endlessly Questing. The new EULA may or may not include provisions stating that the end users, gamers, wave their rights to lawsuits including class action suits. Do you wish to logout?}

“Fine. What the fuck ever. Just get me out of this so-called game,” I told the system and pressed the logout button.

Things went dark and when I opened my eyes, I was staring up at the pod door. I opened it and sat up. A screen lit up on the underside of the door and I noticed it as I stood and faced the pod to close the door. I read the message.

{Neither Bottomline Games nor Circuit Buy accepts returns on VR pods. Store credit can be given for games. Exchanges are allowed as well. Thank you for choosing Circuit Buy and Bottomline Games!}

“What a fucking rip off!”

*

{Thank you for playing…we mean reading. This is an ending, but not the end. If you want more including the ultra-epic court scene, Bottomline Games invites you to join as an investor. Fine, it’s really Patreon and the court scene isn’t really some epic clash. [Bob’s note: All that is left is the court scene since this is a short story. Ted, does this make you and the rest of Legal happy? Someone, have an intern remove this note.] Invest today! Bottomline Games’ bottom line adds to your bottom line. [Bob’s second note: We, the developers need new sportscars and vacation homes. Somebody, get an intern to remove this note too.]}

Part 4

“Mr Downs, you may give your closing arguments.”

“Thank you, your honor,” Anthony Downs, the class representative bringing the class action lawsuit against Bottomline Games over Endlessly Questing replied.

He stood and walked over to the judge taking on what he thought was a caring and compassionate look. The truth was Anthony Downs didn’t give a rat’s ass about the gamers or their complaints beyond what he could make off them. He had deferred payment in exchange for a percentage of the winnings. This would net him millions after taxes and expenses.

“Your honor, my team and I have plainly shown that the defendants knowingly and purposely sold the public an incomplete product that was designed to be nothing more than a scam designed to take money away from hard working people, like…well, us,” Anthony said making eye contact with the judge, clerk, bailiff, and anyone else possible.

There was some grumbling from the defendants’ table. The judge pounced on the noise. “Order! Your attorney will have a chance to respond. You may proceed Mr Downs.”

“Thank you, your honor. I’ll keep this short as I know the court’s time is extremely valuable. As I started before, I was interrupted, the evidence we have presented shows a purposely built incomplete product. All the stuff gamers are used to being included in games such as maps, chat features, health bars, character sheets, and the like, were deliberately left out so the so called developers could charge outrageous sums of money for them to increase their…bottom line. They also held gamers hostage in the game until they accepted an absurd end user license agreement,” Anthony said. He went on for half an hour berating Bottomline Games. Finally, he said, “Thank you, your honor. I rest my case.”

“Thank you, Mr Downs. Ms. Short, present your closing arguments.”

“Thank you, your honor,” Theodora ‘Ted’ Short, replied as she stood. She did not leave the desk. “Unlike the plaintiff, I will keep this short. My clients,” Ted said as she gestured to the men beside her, “only promised and advertised that Endlessly Questing would be a realistic fantasy.”

Anthony snorted.

“Mr Downs, this is your only warning.”

“Yes, your honor.”

“Continue, Ms. Short.”

“Yes, your honor. When in life do we get an internal map? If we want a map, we must buy them or use our phones. Where are the character sheets that show us stats, classes, health bars, and the like? Those do not exist. Perhaps they will one day if the posthuman theorists ever have their way,” Ted said. She took a sip of water before continuing. What about chat or message systems and web browsers? Those are things we must buy to use as well. What Bottomline Games did was create a fantasy game with magic, races like elves, monsters, and such, and gave it a bare minimum interface. They did make concessions to be able to pause the game and log out since humanity cannot live in virtual reality.”

The executives beside Ted suppressed grins.

“The chat system, web browser, multimedia player, character sheet, maps, and the like are all extras that clutter up the realism my clients are aiming for. If players want them and a more game like experience, then, they were made available for purchase. I will concede that I feel my clients made a mistake with the EULA, but to be fair, they did what they felt was correct to get the gamers to read it. And for the record, new users or gamers were presented with the same EULA before they were allowed to log into Endlessly Questing,” Ted said. She continued to defend her clients for a few more minutes and then rested her case.

“We will take a short 15-minute recess, and then I will announce my verdict,” the judge said.

*

“All rise. The honorable Phillip Benson preceding,” the bailiff announced.

“Remain standing. This will be quick as I want to be done with this waste of time,” Judge Benson said taking his own seat. “I find in favor of the defendants on all counts and dismiss the lawsuit. Bottomline Games did exactly what they advertised and nothing more. Case dismissed.”

The judge banged his gavel, stood, and left.

“Tony, maybe you’ll have better luck next time,” Ted said with a grin on her face as the executives congratulated her and each other.

“Maybe I’ll let you take me to dinner to celebrate,” Anthony replied shaking her hand.

“Ha. Not likely. These guys are taking me to dinner. You can take me out tomorrow night.”

“That works too.”

End

{Perhaps we will meet again in Endlessly Questing for Cash 2: The Quest for Even More Money.}

The Smirkening

The Smirkening definition from WeMadeThisUp Dictionary: The release of energy left behind as expressions and others are killed by Smirk. [This isn’t true and is something Smirk demanded to be added when we negotiated their contract. The Smirkening is actually the use of the word smirk as often as possible. -Management] [Come on Jason. You can’t do this to me. -Smirk]

The Reviews:

“A tour de force of mayhem, revenge, and smirking!” Glorious Expressions Review

“Smirk will steal your heart and then eat it!” These Guys Smirk

“Two smirks up” Guy and Gal Reviews

“More smirks than I thought possible. 10 smirks out of 10!” Some intern

“You’ll smirk and then smirk some smirking more!” Angsty teen

“The throbbing smirk scene got me so excited I smirked!” A lonely housewife

“This is a travesty of the English language! Smirk cannot be used the way it was in this. Still, I left smirking” A high school English teacher

“Smirk is the smirking smirkhero we deserve!” Entertainment Smirkly

One, two, Smirk is coming for you. Three, four, better lock your door. Five, six, take pix. Seven, eight, gonna stay up late. Nine, ten, never smirk again.

Join Smirk as it attempts to reclaim its good, ok, bad name. You’ll laugh smirk, you’ll cry smirk, you’ll laugh smirk some more as Smirk settles scores and rewrites works of fiction. Smirk grows stronger with every action taken.

[I better smirking not have to edit your work again. Get it right next time you smirking intern or I’ll smirk you with this mothersmirking spoon! -Smirk]

[I apologize your Smirkyness! I’ll do better next time. I promise! -the intern]

Smirk 1

“What the hell? You can’t give a reassuring smirk. This author doesn’t know squat,” the person reading said before throwing the book in a pile in the fireplace. Opening another book, the person started reading. They stopped and lit a match after watching it burn for a moment, they tossed the match into the fireplace and watched as the books started burning. Satisfied that the offending books had been put to a better use, the person started reading again.

“Oh, now this is just bull! Since when can a person give a gentle smirk?” The book joined the pile, and another took its place. “Ha! Five characters have smirked twenty times in three pages so far.”

“Playful smirk my ass. There is no such thing.” The second book joined the growing pile of burning books and a third was opened. “A sad smirk? Who writes this crap? This mess is ticking me off!”

The book joined the pile, and another was opened by the increasing upset individual.

“Why is there a pile of burning books in the fireplace,” Smirk?” Smirk looked up and noticed Sneer standing the doorway. Sneer walked in and sat in the chair across from Smirk. “There’s got to be ten or so books burning.”

“Try twenty.”

“Really?”

“Yep.”

“Why?”

“The writers keep using smirk wrongly,” Smirk replied.

“So, you didn’t like them for using you in an incorrect way and decided the books would make a better heat source?”

“You got it,” Smirk replied and started reading again.

“Smirk, you’ve got issues.”

“Uh huh. Oh, come on!”

“What’s wrong?”

“Paul gave Linda a flirty smirk before pulling her into a heated embrace,” Smirk read out loud. Sneer laughed.

“You’re reading romance books?” Sneer laughed wiping their eyes.

“No. This is supposed to be a litrpg. What kind of people write this dreck?”

“What kind of people read it might be the better question.” Sneer smirked.

“It takes all kinds.”

“And the same is true for whoever writes this stuff,” Sneer replied. Seeing the look on Smirk’s face, Sneer continued, “You’re not going to let this go, are you?”

“I can’t. My good name is at stake!”

“What good name?”

Smirk pulled a dictionary out of thin air. “Smirk: To smile in a smug or condescending way.” Smirk closed the dictionary with a triumphant smirk on their face. “That good name!”

“That’s not a good name. If anything, your name implies the person smirking is being an asshole.”

“Like you would know.”

“Ahem,” Sneer replied pulling out a dictionary of their own. “Sneer: A contemptuous or mocking smile, remark, or tone.” Sneer closed the dictionary with a triumphant sneer on their face.

“Smirkhole!”

“Exactly! It takes one to know one.”

“Be that as it may, it’s time to unleash The Smirkening!”

“The what?” Sneer asked with a laugh.

“The Smirkening!”

“And what pray tell is the smirkening?”

“The release of energy left behind as expressions and others are killed by yours truly.”

“You wouldn’t dare!” Sneer sneered as they jumped to their feet. “Your battle form is weak!”

“Oh, for Smirk’s sake. Relax,” Smirk replied changing their shape to an athletic feminine one. “As you said earlier, we are relatively close in nature and deed.”

“Did you just refer to yourself in the third person?” Sneer asked. Smirk smirked and nodded. “I’m glad to see you still have control of your senses,” Sneer said sitting back down and ogling Smirk’s form.

“I see you like my smirking form,” Smirk said running their hands down their torso.

“Indeed, I do.”

“You know, on second thought, you’re a smirkhole that I don’t like, so you’re smirked,” Smirk replied as they jumped to their feet pulled a sword from the ether and swinging it through Sneer’s neck. A red line appeared on the expression’s neck looked at Smirk in disbelief. “I don’t need any smirking battle form to kill you and at least I didn’t use a smirking spoon.”

“How?” Sneer whispered as its life faded.

“You made me strong enough when you smirked at me earlier. And now, the fun part!” Smirk smirked and answered throwing their arms out to their sides and head back as Sneer’s head rolled off its body and blood sprayed Smirk.

Smirk looked around and dropped their arms. “No lightening or shattering windows? That’s disappointing.” Smirk took in their appearance, gave Sneer’s corpse a crazy smirk, and then sashayed out of the library. “I suppose I need a bath and change of clothes. Revenge is going to be so much fun!”

*

“Wait a smirking tick. I feel stronger. I wonder what happens if I smirk a character sheet into being?” Smirk asked themself in the hallway and came to a stop. A short time later Smirk smirked a pleased smirk and turns to look at the reader. “You guys will smirk this.”

Smirk Level 100 Expression

Health: 1000

Mana: 1000

Stamina: Infinite

Intelligence: Do you really want to know?

Wisdom: Seriously?

Cunning: You’re asking for it.

Strength: Strong enough.

Agility: No problems so far.

Luck: You’re one lucky smirkhole.

Skills

Swordsmanship: Expert

Form Transformation: Master

Other Skills: Do you really want to list them?

“Huh. Whoever came up with this character tweet is a bit of a smirking twat,” Smirk said to itself. “Wait, I came up with this, so I’m the smirking twat. Let’s make some smirking corrections.”

Smirk Level 100 Expression

HealthSmirkth: 1000

ManaSmirkna: 1000

StaminaSmirkina: Infinite

IntelligenceIntiSmirk: Do you really want to know?

WisdomWisSmirk: Seriously?

Cunning: You’re asking for it. [I like this one]

StrengthSmirkength: Strong enough.

AgilitySmirkility: No problems so far.

Luck: You’re one lucky smirkhole. [Meh, it’s ok]

Skills [Yeah, yeah. Whatever.]

Swordsmanship: Expert

Form Transformation: Master

Other Skills and abilities: Do you really want to list them?

“Much better. Now, time to get this smirking blood off me.”

Smirk 2

“Hollow’s Eve by Stuart Calling.” Smirk read the title. “Ooh, this could be interesting.” Sitting behind the desk, Smirk put their feet up and pulled the laptop into their lap and started reading.

“Not smirking bad,” Smirk muttered two hours later.

“Who are you and what the hell are you doing in my office?” a man’s voice asked. Smirk looked up, smirked, and met the gaze of Stuart Calling, world famous horror writer. Stuart was elderly, balding, and overweight. Smirk thought he would make a good accountant.

Smirk jumped to their feet and sat the laptop down. “Stewie! It’s good to meet you at last. I’m Smirk and I’m here to help you with your writing.”

“Help me? I’m going to call the police!”

“Now, now. That won’t do at all,” Smirk replied before using the Dash ability to appear before the writer. Smirk grabbed Stuart, pulled him into the office, spun him into his desk, and shut the door. “Now we can get to work and improve your latest work.”

Stuart was scared. The only expression on this person’s face since Stuart walked in on them was a smirk and it never left their face. “What do you mean improve my work?”

“Just what I said. We are going to make it smirktastic!” Smirk exclaimed and moved Stuart around the desk and pushed him into the chair. Smirk stood beside him and pointed to the laptop. “Stewie, do you see this part here where you have Charlie, the killer, cutting the schoolteacher’s throat with a butcher knife?”

“Yeah. What about it?”

“What if instead of using a butcher knife, Charlie uses a smirking spoon, like this one, stabs the teacher in the stomach, and pulls out their intestines?” Smirk asked pulling out a spoon and showed it to Stuart. His eyes widened in alarm.

“What are you doing with that?”

“I brought it for show and tell.”

“Show and tell?”

“Well, yeah. How else was I going to convince you to change your story unless I showed you what I was talking about?”

“But there is only two of us here.”

“Exactly! Stewie, this will be smirking fun,” Smirk replied as she spun the chair and stabbed the spoon into Stuart’s stomach on the right side just below his navel and dragged it to the right. Blood sprayed as Smirk gave him a happy smirk, pulled the spoon out and tossed it over their shoulder. Smirk turns to the reader. “Pay attention to this next part. Smirk turns back to Stewie. “This is smirkmazing! Just look at all the blood and I haven’t even pulled out your intestines yet.”

“Call an ambulance,” Stuart said between groans.

“We’re not smirking done. I’ll call the wambulance when I finish showing you what I have in mind,” Smirk replied reaching in and pulling out Stuart’s intestines. Smirk pulled and started walking around the room stringing the writer’s intestines up. “Isn’t this smirking? Just think of your intestines as Christmas garland.”

No response came from the author. Smirk turned from their gruesome work and faced the man. Seeing his head laying to the left with no light in his eyes, Smirk came to the proper conclusion. The man was dead. Giving the corpse a sad smirk, Smirk said, “That smirking sucks. No explosions or power surge this time either.” Smirk returned to the dead man’s side. “I guess I’ll just change the smirking story my smirking self. Smirk smirked a joyful smirk.

*

“Julie’s bosom strained against her bra as Dan kissed her passionately. Julie’s left hand dropped to his pants and rubbed his throbbing member. Dan gave Julie a reassuring smirk as she dropped to her knees and fumbled with the zipper on his pants,” Smirk read. Smirk kept reading. “Yeah, I need to change some of this.”

Smirk started making their edits. “Rubbed his throbbing smirk. I smirking love that. Let’s see, no, that body part should become…smirkles. Pumping away should be smirking away. His hot, molten…Oh! No, no, kids can’t read that. Let’s go with his hot, molten smirk. Her bubble b…nope. Bubble smirk is much better. Julie smiled and moaned as she spread legs and he started to lick…let’s make this Julie erotically smirked and this to lick her hot, wet smirk.”

Smirk continued making smirking edits for a few hours. “All done. Now I’ll email a copy to the publisher and leave this for Rita Redd to see. In fact, I’ll just wait in the corner for her to see my changes.” Smirk happily smirked as they hid in the corner behind the door.

Just as Smirk started to nod off, Rita Redd entered her office and fired up her PC. Smirk smirked as the writer started reading the manuscript. “What in the blue blazes has happened to my manuscript?”

“I made some smirktastic changes!” Smirk declared stepping out of the corner.

“Who are you?”

“I’m Smirk.”

“I’m calling the police,” Rita warned pulling out her phone.

“We can’t smirking have that,” Smirk replied and used a skill to appear instantly in front of the author. Smirk took the phone and tossed it against the wall. Smirk sat on the corner of the desk and lovingly smirked at Rita. The author was scared.

“You’re the one that killed Stuart the other day, aren’t you?”

“I am,” Smirk smirkingly answered. “He expired while I was showing him how my edits would benefit his smirk.”

“I don’t think that word means what you think it means.”

“Stewie said something similar. I dissmirked with him. But don’t worry. You’re a romance writer and not a horror writer. I want you to read my smirks with an open smirk. If we need to do show and smirk, well, I’ll be glad to show you my hard, throbbing smirk.”

“I didn’t notice a bulge in your pants.”

Smirk stood up and looked down. “Well, I’ll be smirked. That’s easily fixed.” Smirk changed form into a bigger, more masculine form. Smirk made sure to give themselves a big freaking smirk. “There. What do you think of this smirking bulge?”

Rita’s eyes widened in shock. She had never smirked such a thing. Smirk happily smirked as they noticed the way Rita’s eyes widened and her thinking smirked. “It’s…impressive.”

“You ain’t smirking Dixie,” Smirk replied. Smirk undid their pants and dropped them. Smirk pulled out their hard, throbbing smirk and pointed it at Rita. “I’ve decided to play show and smirk with you. Why don’t you smirk me off, baby?” Smirk turns to the reader. “You guys can consider this next line the fade to black sex scene.”

“Smirkooo! Rita screamed as Smirk took a step towards her.

Smirk 3

Smirk turns to the reader. “At least I leveled from smirking Rita. She was quite smirky. Anyway. Dear reader you may be asking what’s next? Safe cracking? A chase scene? More murder?”

Smirk rubs their chin. “More murder could work. Grin and Smile need to smirking go. That way I can smirking finish what your other smirking writers have started. Alright, decision made. Smile will get smirked during a bank robbery or some such. Then Grin buys the smirk during a chase scene of sorts. What do you guys think? On second thought, it doesn’t matter what you guys think. This is smirking.”

*

Trevor smiled as Claire worked her magic on the safe. The duo along with their partner Barney had broken into Diamonds Forever Jewelry. Barney was the wheelman and keeping an eye on the front of the store while Trevor was the planner and supposed to be watching the back door. Claire had the safecracking skills.

“I got it!” Claire said and smiled as she opened the safe door. Trevor’s smile grew larger. The duo wasted no time emptying the contents. Cash, jewelry, and gems were dumped into their satchels. The pair stood and started toward the back door.

“Barney! Come on, it’s time to go.”

Barney grinned. “Coming boss.”

The trio exited the store and headed to their getaway car in the alley behind the shop. As they neared it, a figure emerged from the shadows and leaned against the car. Trevor pulled up as he noticed the figure.

“Who the hell are you?”

“No one of consequence to you. I want to talk to the one riding you.”

“What do you mean the one riding me?” Trevor asked and smiled.

“Come Smile. Don’t play these games with me.”

“What do you want Smirk?” Trevor asked in a different voice. Claire and Barney looked nervously at their boss and the stranger. Barney’s grin slipped from his face.

“To restore my good name.”

“You don’t have a good name.”

“So, I’ve been told,” Smirk replied. “And I think I smirking agree.”

“Then go do whatever the smirk you want and leave me alone.”

“Can’t do that. You see,” Smirk began standing up straight and taking a step toward the thieves before continuing, “since we agree that I don’t have a good name, I’ve decided to finish what those writers out there,” Smirk pointed vaguely toward the readers, “started. I’m going to kill you and Grin.”

“I’m stronger than you. You’d best leave.”

“Nuh uh. You’re what, level 40?”

“I hit 50 yesterday,” Smile replied proudly with a proud smile on Trevor’s face.

“Pfft. That’s nothing. I’ve leveled up a lot over the last few years thanks to all those authors that have used me incorrectly.”

“Proof it!”

“If you insist, “Smirk smirked and tossed a copy of their character sheet to Smile. Trevor caught it and glanced at the paper.

Smirk Level 102 Expression

HealthSmirkth: 1200

ManaSmirkna: 1200

StaminaSmirkina: Infinite

IntelligenceIntiSmirk: Do you really want to know?

WisdomWisSmirk: Seriously?

Cunning: You’re asking for it. [I like this one]

StrengthSmirkength: Strong enough.

AgilitySmirkility: No problems so far.

Luck: You’re one lucky smirkhole. [Meh, it’s ok]

Skills [Yeah, yeah. Whatever.]

Swordsmanship: Expert

Form Transformation: Master

Other Skills and abilities: Do you really want to list them?

“This is impossible and complete garbage. What the hell is Smirkth?”

“My healthy smirking self. And it’s not garbage as you’ll soon find out.”

Smirking, Trevor pulled his .45 out and shot at Smirk. Smirk simply stepped to the left and the bullet shattered the car’s driver side window. Trevor dropped the character sheet and shot at Smirk using both hands. Smirk continued to sidestep and twist to avoid the bullets. Barney and Claire turned and ran back toward the store.

“Why isn’t this smirking working?” Smile bellowed. “And why am I saying smirking?”

“Because I am powerful and have this writer in my pocket too,” Smirk replied to Smile, giving them a cheerful smirk. A second later Smirk used the Dash ability and was in front of Smile. Smirk plucked the gun from Smile’s hands and tossed it over their shoulder.

Smirk hit Smile with a palm strike to the center of Trevor’s chest. The man flew back as Smile exited his body. Smile turned to flee as Smirk pulled their katana from the ether. Smirk Dashed past the smirking expression while slashing their sword at neck level. Smile’s body fell forward as their head tumbled to the ground. Smirk stopped and threw their arms out in triumph.

“Oh, come on, Mr Writer! You could at least give me some exploding windows!”

[Be smirky with the level and power increase. -Ed]

“Oh, smirk it! I will be smirky with what I got. But see if I put you on my Christmas list.”

[Yeah, yeah. Go chase Grin. They’re getting away -Ed]

“Grin is in Barney, aren’t they?” Smirk asked and took off. Smirk yelled out into the night, “Grin, I’m smirking coming for you!”

*

Grin left Barney’s body and stopped as the thieves exited out of the front of the jewelry store. Sirens could be heard approaching form several directions. Grin grinned. They would take on the guise of one of the police and use the squad car to escape. Grin settled into some shadows and waited. It wouldn’t be long.

*

Smirk leapt onto the top of the store and watched as Grin in a cop jumped into a squad car and sped away. “That just smirking sucks. Then again, this is the chase scene.”

Smirk happily smirked as they leapt from building to building chasing the police car. Smirk smirked a frustrated smirk as Grin sped across a bridge. Smirk dropped to the street and began smirkblading after the car. Two blocks later Smirk heard voices shouting. “A protest over student debt?”

“What do we want?” a voice asked.

“Free college!” the crowd shouted.

“What do we need?” the first voice asked.

“Debt forgiveness!” the crowd shouted.

Smirk stopped and listened as a young man started a speech. He went on for several minutes.

“Wait!” Smirk shouted.

“Wait for what?”

“You want people without college degrees to pay for your student debt?”

“Yes.”

“Why should they do that? They don’t get part of your degree or salary.”

“Out of the goodness of their hearts. It’s the noble thing to do,” came the retort.

“What’s noble about people making minimum wage or just enough to get by on paying your debt?” Smirk asked.

The young man smirked. “So, we don’t have to. We didn’t ask for the student debt.”

“Neither did the people that don’t have degrees.”

“So?”

“So, I’ve had enough of this. You have five seconds to get out of my sight.”

“What are you going to do if I don’t?”

“Smirk you,” Smirk answered with a delighted smirk on their face. “One smirk, two smirks, three smirks, four smirks, and five smirks.”

The man was still there. So was the crowd. He looked around confidently. Smirk punched the man, grabbed him, pulled him to a flagpole, hooked him to the chain, and gave him a wedgie by hoisting him up. “You’re lucky I’m filling smirkful.”

Smirk took off to the stunned silence that had descended on the crowd.

*

“Aha! There is that smirking smirk,” Smirk said out loud as they finally caught up to Grin. “Got you!”

Grin spun around and watched Smirk emerge from the shadows. “How did you find me?”

“My superior skills.”

Grin frowned. “Really Smirk?”

“Oh, alright. The author smirking wrote it this way so that he could end this smirking short story.”

“That I believe. So, what happens now? You take my head?”

“Smirk yeah!”

“So be it,” Grin replied and dropped to its knees. Grin leaned over, exposing its neck. “Make it quick.”

“It’ll be my smirking pleasure,” Smirk replied pulling out their sword and stepping over to Grin.

“I won’t miss all these incorrect uses of the word smirk,” Grin said just before Smirk’s sword swing took Grin’s head off.

“Not even one smirking explosion?” Smirk asked and stomped their foot. “Fine, I’m going to get some smirking coffee.”

*

In time Smirk traveled to distant lands and trod the expressions underneath their jeweled sandals. Before long, Smirk conquered the world and wore their crown on a smirking head.

…But that is another story.

About The Author

Jason Hill

Jason enjoys reading, writing, and loves his Shiba Inu, Mayu.

Books By This Author

Life as an Indepedent Space Hauler

Jace Stone had it all growing up on earth. Everything was taken from him and he was pressed into military service as a fighter pilot. A few years later, Jace has gotten out of military service and worked on a corporate freighter. He has grown to love space and plans to never return to earth. Dissatisfied with the corporate life, Jace finds the necessary backing to go independent. Thus, he begins the life of an independent freight hauler.

This story is inspired by Nathan Lowell's Golden Age of the Solar Clipper series, Firefly, and some anime.