The air was warm and dry. The ground, a nice shade of brown. Creatures of all varieties were bustling around doing their daily activities. Everything from overgrown worms and huge bees, to the turtle-like Quadav were minding their own business. The smell of freshly caught fish being roasted over the fire by the local Goblins filled the air. A gentle breeze blew through, creating a calming sensation to all. Indeed, it was a wonderful day to be in South Gustaberg.
Garland was clad in his usual armor. None had ever seen him wear any other clothing and lived to tell the tale. He began slowly rising to his feet, using his large, ever-changing weapon to help prop him up.
“Ugh. By the gods my head is killing me.” He mutters. “What… in what hellhole have I awoken in now?” He questions while examining the scenery.
“They call it Vana’diel.” Chimes in a deep voice.
“That voice…” Garland whips his head around to see who is approaching. “Golbez. I see you too have been forsaken to this place.”
“It would appear. I know not-“ before Golbez can finish his statement, a humanoid is spotted about 50 feet away, approaching the two.
The humanoid is a large, hulkish figure, with arms like tree trunks and legs to match. Its skin is a light gray color. Its hair is balding, and it’s sporting a thin beard. A small, almost lizard-like tail swings behind it.
“What IS that hideous creature?! The females of this land must be uglier than Cloud of Darkness to spawn that.” Garland exclaims while readying his weapon.
“I believe the locals call them Galka. Stay your hand, he means us no harm.” Golbez reassures Garland.
The Galka trots up to the two. He is wearing a harness made from brass and a pair of subligar from the same material. He nods to the warriors and greets them.
“Howdy friends! My name is Tamed Bear, it’s a pleasure to meet you!”
Garland quietly mutters, “How fitting, he’s even named after an animal.”
Bear inspects the men. “Boy you two must not be from around these parts. I’ve never seen armor like that, and you look mighty tall for Humes. Well I assume you’re Humes under that armor. I see no tail and your neck is mighty short to be an Elvaan!” He lets out a loud guffaw.
“Yes, we seem to have lost our way and would most appreciate your aid. Have you seen any sort of portal or teleporters around?” Golbez inquired.
“A portal? I’m not sure I follow. Must be some fancy thing from Aht Urhgan. You can take a ship there I think. Maybe we can talk to-“
“Enough of this rambling! If you value your pathetic existence, you will take us to someone who isn’t inbred!” Garland raises his weapon while threatening the friendly Galka.
Tamed Bear is clearly not a fighter. He quickly cowers in fear, shaking from head to toe. “Please sir, don’t hurt me!”
“I, Garland, shall knock you-“
A swift backhand from Golbez knocks Garland to the ground.
“Control yourself! What honor is there in slaying an unarmed, unwilling foe? You were once a knight, were you not? Or have you lost ALL sense of pride? We are a guest here, and as such we will act as one. Such reckless behavior is unnecessary and shall lower our odds of ever returning home. Now, who can we talk to who can assist us?”
Garland sat on the ground in disbelief for a second before quickly jumping to his feet. “Miserable mage, you’re lucky I’m currently in need of you.” Golbez paid no attention to the fallen knight.
Tamed Bear clambered back to his feet. He took a few steps away from Garland and towards his new best friend Golbez before speaking, “H-his name is C-cid. I-I’ll take you to him, just keep him away from me!”
The two warriors followed the Galka as he made his way towards the gates of Bastok.