Alpha World Book One: Gamer for Life

by Daniel Schinhofen

  “May I help you, sir?” The man’s voice dripped with distaste as he looked Alburet up and down.

  Pulling the book from his bag, Alburet turned his eyes to the painfully thin silk clad man. “I was told this was the place to bring such an item, to be sold to the right people.” He held the book out.

  His head held high and with a sniff of dismissal, the curator took the book opening it to the title page. Alburet was watching carefully, but still almost missed the reaction. “Yes, this book might fetch a few coins here. I would be willing to spare you the time and hassle by buying it out right from you right now for five gold.”

  Blinking, Alburet was mildly stunned, not expecting gold right up front. He shook his head sadly though. “Not going to happen. Nice try to all but steal the book, though.” He watched the man react as if he had been slapped, “I want to put it up for auction as is with a conservative reserve to make sure it fetches what it should.”

  “Hmm, I see,” the man said, eyeing Alburet with narrow eyes. “What makes you think it is worth more than my offer?”

  “The Forgotten Prison is a legend of the first empire is it not?” Alburet bluffed, not even knowing if he was telling the truth or not.

  Sighing, the curator turned, “Follow me, please.”

  Alburet followed along behind the man and was led into an office. Behind the desk sat a man who looked to be in his prime, even with the stark white hair. The curator motioned him to a seat as he set the book before the seated man and whispered to him. The white haired man raised his eyebrows, chuckling before he dismissed the first man.

  “Welcome to the royal auction house. Would you care for a drink?”

  “I’m good for the moment, but thank you. I am Alburet, what might your name be?”

  “I am the curator of this place, my name is Vladimir, and it is a pleasure to meet you. Do you mind if I look this book over before we talk business?”

  “Considering the other man already did, be my guest,” Alburet said indifferently.

  Vladimir smiled, allowing Alburet to see the sharp canines he had. “So kind,” Vladimir said before turning his attention to the book. He leafed slowly through the first ten pages then quickly skimmed the rest. “I do believe this is an authentic edition of the book. Did you wish to sell it to us or put it up for auction?”

  Pursing his lips for a moment, Alburet thought about it. “I have had no dealings at this level before, Vladimir,” Alburet said bluntly. “I’m an adventurer and as such do not move in higher society. I would hear your advice on this matter.”

  Chuckling, Vladimir picked up his goblet and took a sip, “Cautious, polite and honest. My goodness, will wonders never cease? You have a decent chance of collecting a right bounty if you auction this book, but it will take some time for us to properly set up such an auction. That would leave you without the book or coin to spend while we did so. Your other option is to let me buy it from you myself, I promise you a very good price but, alas, not as much as what you might get at auction.”

  “What would you do with the book if I sold it to you?”

  “I would gift it to his Majesty King Tyr the Third during the upcoming ball.”

  Quest: Sell or Auction

  Rewards: Variable depending on your actions

  Alburet chewed his lip for a second, “I do need coin at the moment, but I have a feeling that having you as an ally might be my best bet for later in life. I agree to sell it to you Vladimir, at a reasonable price and to be viewed with kindness in the future.”

  Quest Completed: Sell or Auction

  Receive: Become Liked by Vladimir the Royal Auctioneer

  Bonus: A Unique Item specific to your class or gold

  Laughing, Vladimir gave a bow of his head, “Ah, so even two-souled adventurers think of alliances, this is good to know. Have you established an account with the bank here?” When Alburet shook his head Vladimir sighed, “I do not wish to hand over large amounts of coin. Would you be interested in a trade instead?”

  “What kind of trade?”

  “I will give you an item useful only to those who consort with demons in exchange for this book. I know you might be interested, as the scent of brimstone hangs about you.”

  Alburet considered, “Can I see this item first?”

  Chuckling, Vladimir put a bag on his desk then reached into it. He pulled out a set of dark red soft leather boots, which he set on the desk. “Examine these and tell me what you think,” Vladimir gave another sharp smile.

  Alburet did as he was asked and focused on the boots to see their stats.

  Demon Lord’s Boots

  Unique Scaling Item, Part of the Demon Lord set

  Armor 6 to feet (up to 100 depending on level) stacks with Demon Skin

  Agility 6 (up to 100 depending on level)

  Wisdom 6 (up to 100 depending on level)

  Indestructible

  You and your minions can move at double speed when one of your minions is present

  Becomes Soul Bound when equipped

  Other parts of set:

  Robe

  Crown

  Gloves

  Pants

  Belt

  3 pieces bonus: ???

  6 piece bonus: ???

  “Wow, those are very interesting indeed,” Alburet said softly.

  “Do we have a deal then?”

  “Do you have any more of this set?”

  “Sadly no,” Vladimir said, “I can give you directions to others of your kind though if you want. Maybe they have information on where other pieces might be.”

  “Hmm, still not sure the boots by themselves are worth it,” Alburet said trying to bluff for more.

  Vladimir met Alburet’s eyes, “Your heart rate is giving you away. I will ask once more only, then I will withdraw the offer.”

  Sighing, Alburet shrugged, “Fine. I’ll take the boots. They’re more use to me than a book is.”

  “Glad to do business with you,” Vladimir said as he pushed the boots across the desk. “I shall mark your map so you can find your trainers.”

  “Don’t have a map,” Alburet said as he put the boots on, feeling them size themselves to his feet.

  “That’s not right, the third quest in the village should have rewarded you with the basic map,” Vladimir said with a frown.

  Laughing, Alburet shook his head, “Never seen the village. I came from an altogether different place.”

  Frown deepening, Vladimir stared at him then blinked, “So I see. Very well, I will add in a map as part of the deal. Do you happen to have anything else of value to offer me?”

  Pulling the letter opener from his bag, Alburet placed it on the desk, “Got that from the same place as the book.”

  Vladimir frowned at the letter opener which was covered in a thick layer of tarnish. He peered closely at it then brought a jewelers loupe to his eye, studying it before sighing. “Where did you find these, exactly?”

  “Sorry, I promised not to tell,” Alburet said with a smile. “I would trade it to you for a bag like yours and a much better map.”

  Vladimir rubbed his temples, “A level six Summoner shouldn’t be able to have things like this. We have a deal, this letter opener for a bag and map of excellent quality.” He pulled the bell pull next to him and his assistant opened the door. “Bring me a bag and map suitable for a high noble.”

  The assistant raised a brow before bowing and closing the door. “I think he doesn’t like me,” Alburet chuckled.

  “You are dressed as a commoner, of course he doesn’t. He barely tolerates the lesser nobles. He will like you quite soon though, rest assured of that. While we wait, would you like a drink?”

  “I’m good actually, but thanks,” Alburet said as he tucked the old boots into his bag.

  They sat in silence as Vladimir leafed through the book intently until his assistant returned. “Ah good,” Vladimir said, taking the items from his servant then marking the map and handing them over to Alburet. Albur
et blinked to see the bag had 100 slots, and would become soul bound when he equipped it. “There you are. We have concluded our business. I wish you a pleasant day and if you do come across any more items such as these, do bring them to me first.”

  Alburet slung the backpack over his shoulder as he stood up. He picked up the map, getting a pop up asking if he wanted to soul bind it. He selected yes and blinked as it vanished, “Err…”

  Vladimir laughed a deep booming laugh, “It is part of you now. Do you not know how maps work?”

  Alburet mentally asked for his map and it appeared in his hand. “I get it now, just wasn’t expecting it.” He willed it away and it vanished, “I will of course bring anything of similar value to you first, Vladimir. Have a good day and a wonderful night.”

  As he exited to the street after the assistant showed him out he found the sun waning. He checked his map and headed off to finally see his trainer with a jaunty whistle as he walked. The game was really picking up, even if he was a little more geared then he should be. He still needed to sell off the junk and see about a real weapon. After he found the trainer would be soon enough he figured.

  He ended up back at the inn right next to the small cemetery. He frowned, as he had been sure this would be the Necromancer hang out. Shaking his head, he went into the inn to find it fairly busy with people drinking and laughing. Raising a brow at the sheer number of people, he walked to the bar where he greeted the cadaverous bartender. “What you got here?”

  The bartender looked him over before replying, “Anythin' ya could want really, minus the real exotic stuff like dwarven ale or elven wine. What ya havin'?”

  “Dark ale, please.”

  “Five coppers.” The bartender set the mug down with a thump and Alburet dropped ten copper coins beside it.

  “Where can I find a trainer for the path of demon mastery?”

  Smirking, the bartender picked up the coins and pointed out a man in a long black cloak sitting in the corner all by himself. “Talk ta Stewart, if he thinks ya worthy he’ll teach ya.”

  Picking up the mug, Alburet sampled the contents and smiled at the thick, heavy taste of good dark ale. Nodding his thanks to the bartender, Alburet crossed the room to the lone man. “Stewart, might I join you for a moment? My name is Alburet.”

  The person raised his hooded head, allowing Alburet to get a good look at the man’s red skin and glowing eyes. “What do you want?”

  Taking the seat, Alburet took another sip of ale, “Looking for someone to train me in the path of Summoning.”

  Pursing his lips Stewart sat up, really looking Alburet over. His gaze lingered on the boots before he stood with a nod, “Follow me, trainee.”

  Draining the mug, Alburet left it on the table before he followed Stewart down a hallway, then down a set of stairs. They entered a cellar where Stewart produced a light crystal which he released in midair. Alburet blinked watching the crystal float by itself as he followed Stewart to the back wall. Stewart pressed a stone inwards, causing a section of wall to slide away.

  Staying silent, Alburet followed Stewart into a tunnel which twisted and turned as it led them down. Eventually it came out into a huge room with the ceiling supported by columns. Each of the columns were sculpted into likenesses of undead or demons. As he marveled over the artistry, the smell of rotting flesh hit him.

  Gagging slightly, Alburet held his nose as he continued to follow Stewart through the room. As they walked he noticed some people at desks poring over tomes while others ran from person to person. Ah, class training area for Summoners and Necromancers, he thought. At the far back of the room was a desk without anyone at it and Stewart slid into the chair. Next to the desk was a glowing pentagram just large enough for a person to stand on.

  “Okay, would-be Summoner Alburet, what can I do for you?”

  Noticing the lack of other chairs Alburet leaned against the desk. “As you can see, I’m relatively new here. I need to know what would be the best way for me to grow as well as hoping you can teach me my first ability.”

  Stewart pulled his hood all the way back, revealing small horns on the top of his head. “Fresh blood, eh? Most Summoners focus on Intelligence and Wisdom with Constitution coming in a close third. As we aren't big on melee or non-magical ranged combat, we normally ignore strength and agility. Some pick up charisma, hoping that will help sway others into viewing them with less distrust and hatred. As for an ability, you have two choices right now.”

  Stewart opened a book and slid it across to Alburet, “Pick either one.”

  Alburet looked down at the book to see two options. Personal Spells, which would let him change the gestures and words for each of his spells to his own liking was the first choice. The second choice was a flat 10% boost to all fire based spells called Infernal Fire. Flat DPS increase versus a mostly cosmetic ability. He knew what the most likely choice would be for most people. Yet, he hesitated. The flat bonus was nice and all, but being able to customize the spells would be a different edge. It would make people pause to figure out what you were doing if you used non-standard movements and words to use your spells.

  Stewart watched him curiously, as every other Summoner he had trained had quickly taken Infernal Fire, laughing at the other choice. His eyes narrowed as he watched this Summoner, who was clearly not average with the boots he was wearing.

  Alburet chewed his lip before tapping the page with Personal Spells, then tapping the pop-up asking him to confirm his selection. “Well, this ought to be interesting,” Alburet chuckled as he glanced up to find Stewart watching him with interest. “Thanks for helping me out, Stewart. Can you give me any advice on where I should go hunt for the next few levels?”

  Stewart smiled, “I can indeed. There is a goblin fort to the east of the city, out in the plains. The goblins should prove a challenge for you. You can get there by leaving the main gates and traveling east past the few villages that way. Or, if you have the coin you can get the portal guild to transport you to the small keep the king keeps there to stop the goblins from advancing.”

  “I’ve got no money to speak of so I guess I'll have to hoof it,” Alburet said with a shrug. “Oh, where can I set my Homestone?”

  “The graveyard next to the inn has a bind point. The tall obelisk is where you set it, just touch the stone to the indention there. Don't you have the gold for a simple teleport? You should have been able to pick it up in the village all adventurers start in.”

  “I didn't start there, so no can do. Oh well, I just need to sell off some junk and then I’ll be on my way I guess. Does the king's fort have quests for killing the goblins?”

  “Of course it does,” Stewart said, truly puzzled by this anomaly of an adventurer. “Your staff there is going to let you down though. I would suggest you stop at a shop and pick up a better weapon before you head out.”

  “Will do,” Alburet said, pulling his map out, “just show me which shop you think would be best for me.”

  Stewart blinked at the Traveler’s Map, “How in the Infernal Hells did you get a Traveler’s Map?”

  Chuckling, Alburet shrugged, “Same place I got my boots and bag. But I'm not giving away all my secrets the first time we talk, Stewart. So, can you mark a good shop to pick up a staff appropriate for where I’m going?”

  Shaking his head in disbelief, Stewart touched a shop on the map. “Grimgar's Weaponry will do fine for you. Tell Grim I sent you and he should knock 10% off his price.”

  Alburet looked at the map before making it vanish, “Sounds great. Thanks again Stewart, see you later.” He turned to walk away when Stewart called out to him.

  “Alburet, just step on the circle. It will take you to the graveyard.” Stewart said, pointing at the pentagram.

  “Thanks again,” Alburet said with a nod and did so. He blinked at a flash of red light before his vision cleared and he found himself in the graveyard. “Handy teleport out, at least,” Alburet muttered as he walked over to the obelisk and touched his
Homestone to it. “Alright, bound to the city and ready to go, shopping then the open road.”

  Before he moved on he pulled up his character sheet to add his points and to check his spells. He quickly added his stat points then checked the two spells he had picked up.

  Fire Blast: Mana cost: 30. Duration: Instant. Lob a blast of fire at your target. Fire Blast does 20 fire damage if it strikes the target. To use Fire Blast act as if compacting a snowball while chanting the spell name for two seconds, then throw the ball of fire at your target. (You may change this spell requirement due to your ability.)

  Alburet touched the parenthesis portion of the spell. A pop-up asked him to touch it before making the motions and adding the words to change the spell. Smiling, he touched the pop up, changing the hand motions to a single hand clenching before opening back up while saying the phrase “Die in a fire.” Another pop-up asked him if he accepted the changes and he agreed, then looked at the spell again.