The Dreamer's POV

Chapter 64: Beyond The Wild Lands

[00 Months: 02 Days: 10 Hours]

As I journeyed beyond the Wild Lands, my steps purposeful and steady, I couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation.

The settlement of The Outpost lay ahead, a haven of civilization in these rugged lands. But as an explorer of the Dungeons, I knew the importance of remaining inconspicuous, blending in with the locals to avoid unnecessary attention.

My attire was deliberately casual, devoid of any distinguishing marks that would reveal my true nature. A simple shirt and trousers, practical and unremarkable.

To further conceal my identity, I wore a mask, an item I fortunately obtained in a Treasure Chest, which altered my facial structure, rendering myself unrecognizable to those who may have seen me in my true form.

... Or at least, hide my real identity for the sake of safety.

It was essential that I moved freely, unhindered by potential conflicts that could arise from my reputation. Hence, the guise I donned, a mask of anonymity and protection.

After what felt like an hour of trekking, the outline of 'The Outpost' emerged on the horizon. The settlement's humble structures, bustling with activity, brought a smile to my face.

I had arrived at my destination, a respite from the dangers of the wilderness and an opportunity to restock and gather information.

The settlement appeared to be teeming with life, its inhabitants going about their daily routines, seemingly oblivious to the world beyond their borders. I knew that maintaining a low profile would serve me well.

By blending seamlessly into their midst, I could observe, gather knowledge, and interact without raising suspicion.

As I approached The Outpost, my steps became more deliberate, my movements measured. I took note of the faces, the architecture, and the customs, striving to assimilate seamlessly into the fabric of this vibrant community.

'I can also think of this another way...'

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It was a chance to rest, replenish supplies, and perhaps forge connections that may prove invaluable in my future expeditions.

"Well... first things first. I should get in."

As I approached the entrance of The Outpost, my eyes fell upon the two guards stationed at its gate.

'These are the first natives I've seen.' My thoughts echoed, though I maintained a cool front.

Both of them appeared like regular humans, and not too different from how I looked.

They wore simple attire, their garb resembling that of villagers rather than seasoned warriors. Spears in hand, and mail armor adorning their bodies, they appeared primitive at first glance.

However, the glimmering enchantments that danced upon their weapons and armor hinted at a hidden power, one not to be underestimated.

The guards eyed me cautiously as I drew near, their wary gazes scanning my casual attire and seemingly unarmed state.

One of them stepped forward, his spear held firmly at his side. "Halt! State your name and purpose," he demanded with a firm voice.

'Understandable, considering their situation...'

This was a town in the middle of nowhere, close to a den of wild animals and Demons.

I would even call their security measure too lax, though now that I was closer to the guards, I could tell that they were quite strong.

I raised my hands slightly in a gesture of peace, my masked face devoid of any threat.

"I mean no harm. My name is Rael, and I seek nothing more than a place to rest within the safety of this settlement," I replied calmly.

I told them my surname, in case one of them had some sort of truth-detecting Skill. Telling a would spell trouble for me, and I didn't want to make a bad first impression.

'That said, this disguise is still necessary. If there existed someone here who could see past my disguise, then it would cause another issue for me. But at the very least, disguising my identity was much better than outright lying.'

It wasn't like I wasn't cooperating. Plus, I was ultimately human, and I didn't have any negative intentions for this place.

The guards exchanged glances, their skepticism palpable. One of them spoke up, his tone tinged with curiosity. "So you are an Adventurer?"

'Adventurer? Yeah, let's go with that...'

This <Language Comprehension> Skill was really useful. We could communicate properly despite being from different worlds. That made all of this much easier.

"Yes. I'm an Adventurer..." I responded gently.

"An adventurer, huh? Where are your weapons and equipment? You seem rather ill-prepared for one of your kind."

Ah, that's right! I was currently dressed causally.

I took a moment to craft a believable response, knowing that honesty was often the best approach.

"I've had a run-in on my way here," I explained, feigning a slight disappointment in my voice.

"I was robbed of my gear, and I barely managed to escape with my life. I'm hoping to find solace in this town, gather my thoughts, and decide on my next course of action."

The guards observed me closely, their eyes assessing my every move. Their expressions softened slightly, as if my tale resonated with their own experiences.

They muttered among each other, sharing whispered words of caution.

"You should be careful venturing into the Wild Lands," one of the guards advised, his voice laden with a mix of concern and admiration. "It's a treacherous place, and it's nothing short of a miracle that you made it out in one piece."

The second guard nodded in agreement. "Indeed, it takes a certain kind of strength to survive out there. Rest assured, you'll find refuge in The Outpost. Just be mindful of the dangers that lie beyond our walls."

'If you mean this lackluster wooden fence you've erected, sure...'

These people were fortunate that the Demons in the Wild Lands remained there. If those Dungeon monsters could come out of their haven and into this place, I knew they would perish for sure.

"Thank you. I honestly appreciate it." I smiled and nodded in response.

With a final nod of approval, the guards stepped aside, granting me passage into the settlement.

As I walked through the gate, their words of caution lingered in the air, a reminder of the perils I had overcome.

Despite just meeting them, I couldn't help but feel a sense of appreciation for their understanding and acceptance.

'At the very least, they don't seem like bad people.'

*********

With a renewed sense of purpose, I ventured forth, my casual attire disguising the power that lay dormant within me.

I strolled through the streets, my masked face betraying no hint of the determination that lay beneath.

The casual garb, and the careful concealment, all served their purpose. I was just another face in the crowd, seeking respite and the simple pleasures that this settlement had to offer.

It was more like a medieval-like village, with townsfolk talking to one another, busy streets, open market areas, shops, and smithies, among other places I observed in my trek.

With each passing step, I soaked in the atmosphere of The Outpost, knowing that this was but a brief pause in my ongoing journey.

'I still need to focus on getting stronger and prepare for the appearance of the Fist Floor of the Tower Of Trials.'

But for now, I would relish in the anonymity and tranquility of this settlement, cherishing the moments of respite before venturing back into the unknown.

'I should find an inn and settle in.'

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[A/N]

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