Chapter Seven - Todrick

Well, I think I made a new friend: Todrick, the dwarf. Todrick and I have been exchanging information about our worlds for quite some time. But ultimately, I’ve been learning more about this world since Todrick is already quite knowledgeable about Earth. This world has some sort of vertical mechanism and proxy skies. I’m still quite confused about it, but I decided to worry about it later. I sit wide-eyed as I hear the conversation shift and hear him talk about Game of Thrones, Metallica, and FIFA.

I confirmed that I am some sort of lizard girl. Todrick has magical tools that allow him to scan and analyze objects with magical energy. This world is filled with magic and it functions as a life force for most creatures. Anyways, I learned four facts about myself when I got scanned. First, I am an amalgamation of a lizard-gecko-crocodile-human hybrid. Still a lizard, but I have some sort of pseudo-closure. But what the heck. I kinda liked the mystery of the unknown towards what my species was. There was an off-chance I could’ve been a dragon. Ultimately, my lizard-human biology allows for regeneration, including lost limbs. Second, due to my physiology, including the lost limbs I have a resistance to disease and poisons. It is not absolute, but that explains why the rock zombie’s virus took a long time to activate. Third, my tail magic is unique to me. So Todrick had no information or data on what I am capable of. I transformed my tail to a horse tail earlier to show him the full (or empty) extent of my abilities. Fourth, I have a monster essence pocket. It is basically an invisible counter that collects fallen monster essence. Some sort of residue collector. It is a concept or commodity that all sentient creatures possess in this world.

I have three monster essences. One rock zombie and two rock goblins. I can exchange this essence at a guild hall or general store for money. Other objects of value could be collected and sold to said establishments. It sounds exactly like a looting system, but the concept of collecting essence automatically is amazing.

Anyways, there are many species in this world. So Otherworlders such as myself fit in. The fact that I was reborn in this cave and Todrick keeps watch of those that enter and go does not add up. So naturally, he came to the conclusion that I am an Otherworlder, or an American. I have an idea on how that term came to be, but if possible I want to confirm with the other two visitors before I ask.

“Well, I believe you should go to the town to get familiar with your new surroundings,” Todrick said, stretching in his chair, “Your arm should regrow by tomorrow morning and you should get familiar with the currency.”

“Yes, thank you for your time and knowledge. I’ll pay you for helping me once I figure out the money thing.”

“Nonsense. A story or two about the wolverine warrior from your world would be fair compensation. Aye, I admire his relentless spirit!”

I wave goodbye with my remaining hand to Todrick as I step out of the cave system and into a seaside town. I receive mental whiplash as I am instantly blinded by the glare of the ocean hitting my eyes. The sea salt overwhelms my nostrils and my feet sink into the warm sand. There is nothing beyond the horizon. Is this an endless sea or are there more continents out there?

There are other series of caves along the coastline. But those cave entrances are unnatural and peculiar. Like someone blasted their way out with dynamite. And a couple meters away I can spot the town. The building structures seem to be made of stone and clay. It is a really cool design that reminds me of turtle shells.

I arrive in town and there is a moderate hustle. I’m guessing this is the main street as it reminds me of downtown. The sun starts setting as the lanterns begin glowing violet. People stare at me as I try to navigate. My goal is to find someplace to eat and sleep. But I can’t read the signs. I understand the spoken language, but the symbols are entirely foreign.

I take advantage of the people already staring at me, “Excuse me, where is the tavern?” I ask sheepishly. Fortunately, I was assisted and pointed in the direction of the only tavern in town. I entered the tavern and a huge crowd gathered around two figures: a gothic goldfish and a humanoid made of liquid metal.