Living as a Mortal In a World Full of Gods

Kael followed the golden warrior through the shimmering forest, his mind swirling with unanswered questions. The trees seemed alive, their leaves glowing faintly with an otherworldly light. Every step he took echoed softly, as though the very ground was acknowledging his presence. He kept glancing at his guide, who moved with a confidence and grace that left no doubt of his power.

"What's your name?" Kael asked, his voice breaking the heavy silence.

The golden warrior turned slightly, his glowing eyes meeting Kael's. "Lorien," he said. "I am one of the guardians of Dione, tasked with maintaining and protecting the balance in this realm."

Kael nodded, though he barely understood what that meant. "And this place, Dione… it's where gods live their lives as mortals?"

Lorien let out a small chuckle. "Yes, though it is not as simple as that. The gods here have relinquished much of their divine power, choosing instead to live among the mortal-like. Some seek redemption, others seek understanding, and a few simply seek to conquer. This realm is a crucible, testing even the most powerful beings."

Kael shivered at the thought. "And me? I… I'm just a mortal. Why am I here?"

Lorien stopped abruptly, turning to face Kael fully. "That, mortal, is the question you must find for yourself. The Fates do not bring someone to Dione without reason. You may be more than you realize."

Kael frowned, unsure how to respond. He felt painfully ordinary, a stark contrast to the grandeur of his surroundings and the imposing figure before him.

They continued walking until they reached a clearing. In the centre stood a small village, its buildings constructed from stone and wood that seemed to pulse with subtle energy. Villagers moved about, their appearances a mix of the familiar and the extraordinary. Some looked human, while others bore features that marked them as something else entirely—glowing eyes, horns, or even shining scales.

Lorien gestured toward the village. "You'll find refuge here for now. The people of Ethrion are accustomed to outsiders, though they may not welcome you warmly at first."

Kael hesitated, looking at the bustling village. "What about you? Are you leaving?"

Lorien's expression softened. "I must. Others need my aid, and the balance of this realm requires constant vigilance. But take this." He reached into his armour and pulled out a small, glowing crystal. "This will mark you as under my protection. Show it if you find yourself in danger or need of help."

Kael accepted the crystal, its warmth seeping into his palm. "Thank you," his voice filled with genuine gratitude.

Lorien nodded, his golden armour catching the sunlight as he turned to leave. "Remember, mortal," he called over his shoulder. "Survive. And seek your purpose. Dione is not kind to those who wander aimlessly."

Kael watched as Lorien disappeared into the forest, leaving him alone at the edge of the village. Taking a deep breath, he tightened his grip on the crystal and stepped forward.

The village was a cacophony of sounds and sights that overwhelmed Kael's senses. Merchants called out to passersby, hawking goods that ranged from exotic fruits to weapons that hummed with energy. Children ran through the streets, their laughter echoing through the air. Yet, despite the apparent liveliness, Kael couldn't shake the feeling that he didn't belong.

As he wandered, he noticed the stares. Some villagers eyed him with curiosity, others with suspicion. A burly man with a scar running down his face stepped into Kael's path, blocking his way. "You're not from around here are you." the man said, his voice low and gruff.

Kael looked towards the burly man with a scar and replied. "I… I'm new here. Just trying to find my place."

The man's eyes flicked towards the glowing crystal in Kael's hand. His expression shifted to a mixture of surprise and grudging respect. "Lorien brought you here huh?"

Kael nodded. "He said I could find refuge here."

The man stepped back, his posture relaxing slightly. "If Lorien vouches for you, then you're welcome. But be warned" he added, leaning in closer. "This village has its own rules. Break them, and not even the crystal that Lorien will save you."

Kael swallowed hard and nodded. "Understood."

The man grunted and walked away, leaving Kael to continue exploring. He eventually found himself at a small inn near the centre of the village. Its sign, etched with intricate runes, read "The Star's Respite."

Inside, the inn was warm and inviting. A fire crackled in the fireside and the scent of roasted meat filled the air. The innkeeper, a middle-aged woman with silver-streaked hair, looked up as Kael entered. Her eyes narrowed slightly, but she said nothing as he approached the counter.

"I… I'm looking for a place to stay the night" Kael said, his voice faltering as he looked towards the middle-aged woman.

The woman studied him for a moment before nodding. "We have a room available. It's two silvers per night. Meals included."

Kael hesitated. "I don't have any money," he admitted, feeling a flush of embarrassment.

The woman's gaze hardened. "No coin, no room."

Before Kael could respond, a voice spoke up from behind him. "Put it on my tab, Aria."

Kael turned to see a young man leaning against the doorway, a playful grin on his face. His hair was a wild tangle of black, and his eyes sparkled with mischief. He wore a simple tunic and trousers, but there was an air of confidence about him that was impossible to ignore.

Aria sighed but nodded. "Fine. But don't make a habit of this, Ren."

The man or should I say Ren grinned wider and clapped Kael on the shoulder. "Welcome to the Star's Respite. Name's Ren. You looked like you could use a friend."

Kael managed a small smile. "Thanks. I'm Kael."

"Well, Kael," Ren said, leading him to a table near the fire. "You must be new around here."

As Kael sat down at the table he replied "Yeah, I just got here and I have no knowledge about Dione or how things work around here"

Ren looked at Kael with a smile. "Lucky for you, I'm an excellent teacher."