CHRONICLES of a PC Gamer Stuck Inside an RPG (Book One: Duelist)

Chapter 20 - A Nice Surprise

As fast as we had arrived at the Lucky Shrine from the tavern, we managed to return even faster. Why? Because Amelica was still feeling the rush and excitement of being in the presence of her Goddess. And she was dragging me by my hand along the entire two blocks until we arrived at The Noble Lady. As soon as we were in sight of the building, however, she released my hand. Reluctantly.

I guessed that Amelica was not ready to publicize our relationship—whatever that was. Honestly, I didn't know if we were now at the stage of boyfriend-girlfriend or still just casual friends. And I had to remind myself that the courting rituals in Britannia may be very different from back home. At any rate, I was confident that we will figure it out in due time.

Amelica glanced back at me. She offered me her sweet smile and quickly entered the tavern.

I waited a few moments before stepping inside; I didn't want the other patrons to suspect or assume that we were "together" by walking in together. I decided to join the regulars in the common room for breakfast. I took a seat in the back. I casually looked around but I didn't see any familiar faces in the room. No one paid any attention to me. Well, that may be for the best since yesterday's episode with Ebenthal began on the wrong foot and eventually led to his imprisonment in the city jail. I wondered when his trial will take place; I was ordered by the Watch to stay in town and to be present for Ebenthal's upcoming trial.

A few moments later, Amelica approached me. "What would you like for breakfast, milord?" she asked. Both her face and her tone of voice were neutral but her eyes danced with mischief.

"I want to try something different. I'll have warm oatmeal today. Thank you," I replied. Remembering that I had one more task to do at the dojo, I raised my hand before Amelica walked away. "I need to buy a small lemon from you. And, if possible, can you break a gold coin?" I requested.

"Sure, milord," she curtsied and walked back into the kitchen.

Once I settled into my seat, I remembered that I had a second pop-up. I focused on the message and it read, "Greater Divine Blessing received. +500 XP." My eyes bulged at the hefty experience gain. Quietly and casually, I recalled my player screen. My current experience was 1,254/1,000. I had enough to advance to level two! It took great willpower for me to keep quiet and not pump my fists in the air in celebration. I saw that I was still partied with Amelica and I decided to ask for her advice when she returned with my breakfast.

A few minutes later, the lovely maid put a large bowl of steaming hot oatmeal on the table in front of me. It was topped with a few slices of bananas. She also placed a cup of honey tea and a lemon on the table. I gave her my gold coin and received ninety-nine silver pieces and ninety-six copper pieces as change.

"There's no charge for your oatmeal because it's included with your room service. But the tea and lemon are extra," the maid explained.

I nodded as I put the coins on the table. I asked in a low voice, "Please look at my second pop-up."

Amelica did just that and her eyes bulged. "Wow," she whispered.

"I have enough experience to advance now," I said.

Her eyes quickly regained focus. "I think you should talk to your instructor before you advance to the next level," she advised.

My eyebrows shot up at the request but I quickly agreed to follow her advice. After all, her advice had proved golden thus far. "Okay, I'll consult Kalistra first," I replied.

Amelica smiled warmly at me and then returned to the kitchen.

As I slowly ate my breakfast, I started pondering the situation. For most RPGs that I've played, advancement to the next level was automatic. Apparently, things were different in this gaming world and I would have to ask Kalistra about it.