Waking up on the shore in the Palpagos Islands, you lament the fact that you got thrown into the darker knockoff of Pokemon. At the very least, you can try to make this world a better place, and maybe uncover a few mysteries in the process.
I groan as I blink the crud out of my eyes.
There's something standing over me.
Three somethings.
My vision slowly clears as I try to figure out what it is.
The glare of the sun makes me flinch, but I finally get a look at them.
Some kind of… sheep creature?
And a chicken thing?
And the last one…
Some kind of bipedal cat?
What?
Why do I…
The three startle and run off, but I groan as I pull myself up.
My head aches as I try to gather my thoughts, but I know I've seen those creatures somewhere.
Where…
Wait.
That sheep…
Isn't…
Isn't that from that Pokemon with guns game?
I had been thinking about buying it…
Wait.
It that's real then…
I slowly push myself up into a sitting position, before looking around.
I smell the salt on the wind, and look over the shore.
From not far away, the three Pals look back at me cautiously.
When I look at them though, I can see small icons floating above their heads.
Lamball, 1.
Cattiva, 2.
Chikipi, 1.
These…
These are Pals.
I slowly reach my arm across my body to pinch myself.
I shake my head furiously.
Nope, not a dream.
Which means…
"FUCK!"
-x-X-x-
After a few minutes of assessing my situation, I quickly find that I'm mostly naked, slightly sunburnt, and being watched by a trio of curious Pals.
With a sigh, I make my way over to them.
They back up slightly, but I crouch down and spread my hands in a calming gesture.
"Hey guys, don't worry, I don't mean you any harm, alright?"
The three look me over suspiciously, but slowly nod in acceptance.
"Alright, if that's dealt with, I don't suppose you three know where I could find something to eat?"
The three start discussing amongst themselves, but after a few minutes of clucking, baaing, and meowing, they come to a conclusion.
The Lamball happily gestures for me to follow, and the three hop off into the treeline.
I follow behind, slightly cautious, but doing my best to remain calm and optimistic.
Suddenly, they come to a stop, and point me to a couple plants.
One I quickly recognize as a carrot, while another is a green onion.
The last, however, is a large bush covered in red berries.
I make my way over to the bush and pluck a large one from the branch, carefully popping it into my mouth.
mmmmmmmmmhhhhhh
The berry is flavorful, if a little sour, but sweet and delicious.
It feels kind of like a mix between a raspberry, a strawberry, and a blueberry.
Now, however, I take a closer look at the blurry image in the corner of my eye.
[Focus to open Menu]
Deciding to follow instructions, I focus my attention on the icon, and a large screen suddenly fills my vision.
Well, I never really like systems, but this one seems fairly basic at the very least.
[Inventory] [Technology] [Palpedia]
I focus on the Inventory tab, and it opens.
However, there's only a single Red Berry inside.
Popping the berry into my mouth, the icon fades, and I'm left with an empty inventory.
Well then.
Shifting over to Palpedia, I see that only the first three entries are filled.
Fair enough.
Finally, I open the Technology tab.
Well, that's quite a bit.
I take a glance at the number of points I have available.
10, huh?
I select the most basic one, the Primitive Workbench, and feel a weight settle in my head.
Now, thinking about it, I know exactly how to put something like that together.
With frightening clarity.
Next, I select the basic Stone Tools.
Damn, I didn't know there was that much to making stone tools.
Regardless, I pick up the torch, bow, and club just in case.
I chuckle at the Campfire option.
Yeah, I was a Boy Scout, I know how to make a campfire already.
Now then, I have the knowledge, but I need to make the tools.
What to start with?
-x-X-x-
I hum as I pick up a suitably shaped stick.
Testing the flex as I grab a few good stones, I get to work.
I feel some sort of fog come over me as I put the things together, but after a good half hour, I look down at my creation.
The blade is sharp, firmly imbedded, and I heft it.
Good weight.
Making my way over to a tree, I get to work.
The Pals watch curiously as I chop at the tree, and I swing one more time and-
*CRASH*
The thing comes crashing down.
I look back down at the axe, and then my arms.
I…
I definitely wasn't that strong before.
Walking over to the downed tree, I get to work.
Another half hour later, I have a workbench and a campfire all set up, and quickly put together a basic pickaxe on the workbench.
Wow, that was way quicker!
Regardless, I turn to the three Pals-
Huh, that's weird, Cattiva's missing.
Suddenly, I hear a crashing from the bushes.
Turning with my axe readied, I'm met with the sight of Cattiva with-
A very upset looking chicken.
I look at Chikipi.
I look at the chicken.
I look back at Chikipi.
Well, that answers a few questions.
And creates another dozen.
Whatever, that can be saved for later.
Cattiva walks over to me with the chicken in his grasp, looking up at me with a hopeful look.
I think for a minute before I realize what he wants.
Looking between him and the campfire, I come to a conclusion.
"Do you want me to cook the chicken?"
He nods fiercely, and I look down with a sigh.
"Alright, fine, just hold it down so I can-"
Before I get the chance to finish, Cattiva cuts the bird's head off with a slash from his claws.
"… Well I guess that also works."
I take the offered chicken and get to work.
Plucking feathers gets monotonous after a while, but eventually, Cattiva is drooling as the bird roast over the fire.
Finding salt was a bit tricky, but Lamball apparently knew a spot.
Biting into the seasoned meat, I hum at the taste.
Much better than the farm raised ones I'm used to.
It's slightly unnerving to see Lamball chow down on a chicken leg, but I can deal.
Not Chikipi, I've actually tended chickens.
Eating their own kind is tame for those feathered freaks.
Regardless, I have a few options.
Checking out the rest of the area is certainly on the agenda.
But putting a proper weapon other than my axe together would be useful in case I find anyone uninclined to dialogue.
Thinking about it, a bow is probably the best bet.
A good hour later, I finally have a bow and two dozen arrows.
The quiver is… passable, but I'll need leather to do that.
Now, is there anything else I should do?
I turn to Cattiva.
"Hey, I'm gonna take a look around the area, do you mind coming with me? I could use another fighter if things go sour."
The Pal ruminates on the idea for a bit, before pointing to the fire.
I roll my eyes.
"Yes, I'll cook something for you when we get back, alright?"
He cheers at that, and hops up to follow me.
With that, we set off into the woods.
-x-X-x-
We walk for a good hour, and I get to test out my [Inventory] by shoving half a dozen dead chickens into my pocket dimension.
Cattiva got a few, but I made sure my bow was working fine.
On another note, this thing is quite possibly better than any modern bow I've used.
Seriously, it shoots straight and hard.
I don't know what the draw weight is, but from the chipped stone, I suspect it's quite a lot.
Suddenly, as we approach a group of trees with some kind of damage, Cattiva panics.
I turn to the panicking Pal, before I take a closer look at the trees.
Are those…
Bullet holes?!
I turn back to Cattiva.
"Are there humans near here, Cattiva?"
He looks worried, but nods.
"Why are you so scared of them?"
He makes a gun shape with his paws, before covering his ears, finally making a… shape?
Then he shakes his arms like he's pulling at prison bars, and I understand
From what little I remember, there was a criminal faction that captured and sold Pals.
Well, I think it's about time I gave them a visit.
"Cattiva, I'm going to see what I can do about them. Are you willing to help me?"
He looks conflicted, but after looking into my eyes…
His gaze hardens, and he nods.
With that, we begin to skulk through the bushes.
Coming upon the camp, I finally get a look at these people.
What I see does not make me happy.
One of the men is butchering a dead Lamball, and a number of other dead Pals surround the camp, some impaled on stakes to serve as a warning.
The more pressing matter is the three dead humans hanging from a tree by their necks.
They're rather clearly long dead, but I still can't help but be furious about it.
From the looks of them, they were likely farmers of some sort.
One might have been a trader, but I can't tell from here.
Regardless, these four men are going to die for this.
More curious is the figure locked in a cage at the center of the camp.
.
--------------->
.
(Art is from Novel AI.)
It looks like some sort of Egyptian catgirl.
It's obviously a Pal, but not one I'm familiar with.
Looking above her head, I glance at the Palpedia.
Sekhmet, Level 15.
Ok, that's just as bad as Anubis.
Huh, maybe this is a counterpart?
Regardless, she doesn't look happy, and I need a plan.
I have an axe, a bow, and a Cattiva.
It looks like three of them have some kind of metal clubs, while the leader has a handgun.
Let's see what I can do here.
"Hey, could you go around to the other side of the camp and make some noise to distract them?"
Cattiva nods fiercely, and runs off into the bushes.
A few minutes later, I hear loud crashing from the other side of the camp, and the men turn to look at it.
"Oi, you three, go check that out!" Snaps the boss, and I slowly get myself into position.
The three near the treeline, and just as they turn around to respond…
I loose.
The arrow sinks into the back of his neck, and he gurgles out his death knell.
With that, I set down my bow, ready my axe, and start sprinting into the base.
The three men are screaming while the boss chokes on my arrow, and Sekhmet watches with interest as I cross the camp.
Finally, I'm onto them.
-x-X-x-
Their resistance is futile.
My axe slams into the neck of the first one, and I click my tongue as it only mostly takes his head off.
The other two are screaming, but still try to charge me.
I bat away the strike from the first, parrying the second before striking down into his thigh, eliciting a crack as the man screams bloody murder.
The last one recovers and tries to run, but it's too late.
I slam my axe into his helmet with a roar, and while it deflects the blow, the man goes crashing to the ground.
With a few precise swings, the men are all finally dead, and I look into the treeline.
"Cattiva, come out, they're all dead."
Cattiva comes out after a few seconds, and looks over the goons with a surprised look.
Shrugging, he goes to take a bite.
I stop him.
"Hey, I know they were bad, and you probably eat dead Pals, but-"
I think for a moment.
Huh, it really isn't all that different.
"Hmmm, well, it could get you into trouble, humans are squeamish about being eaten." I finish "It'd be like eating a Lamball in front of another Lamball. It's understandable that most beings don't want to see something like them getting eaten.
He looks up at me for a moment before nodding with a look of understanding.
Y'know, I would think that was just placating, but the haunted look in his eyes makes me think he's seen something similar.
Regardless, we make our way back to the camp, where Sekhmet is looking at us curiously.
"Hey, if we let you out, you won't try an kill us right?" I ask, and she just looks at me for a moment before giggling.
She meows out something, but I can't understand a word.
Not sure what the weird look is either.
Regardless, I take a look at the lock.
Hmmm, I can think of a few ways to get this open.
Walking up to the lock, I put it under tension before striking.
BANG
BANG
BANG
I keep going but…
It's not working.
Sekhmet giggles at me.
I sigh as I think about how else I could open this.
Maybe…
I walk over to the corpse of the boss, and after rummaging through his pockets for a bit, pull out a key ring.
Walking back over to the cage, I slot the correctly sized key into the lock.
It clicks open, and Sekhmet is too busy laughing her ass off to leave.
I look over to Cattiva, and he's also laughing.
I sigh.
"Anyways, Sekhmet, would you like to come with us?" I ask, and she gives me a weird look.
Cattiva is also looking at me weird, and I can't help but blush slightly at their looks.
"What, I was just trying to be polite! We just helped her out, and she might like a place to get back on her feet before she decides what to do next!"
Cattiva rolls his eyes at me, but Sekhmet giggles.
However, she stands up and walks over to me with a happy look, and I'm slightly startled as she brushes her face up against mine.
"W-woah! Man, I guess you're pretty thankful I bailed you out, huh?"
Cattiva's got that look again, but Sekhmet just smiles.
Before we can leave though, she starts… pointing at me?
"What is it?" I ask, and she gets a thoughtful look on her face.
She points at herself and meows, then does the same for Cattiva.
Finally, I get what she wants.
"Oh, do you want to know my name!"
She nods happily, and I take a calming breath.
"Well then, my name is Karl Barker, nice to meet you Sekhmet!"
She smiles, before quickly pointing at herself.
"Do… Do you want a name?" I ask curiously, and she nods frantically.
"Hmmm, well then, what about…"
Hmmm, what names would fit an Egyptian catgirl?
Wait.
Hmmmmm.
There was that one from Animal Crossing…
And they did look alike…
Well then…
"How about Ankha? It's the name of a character that looks a lot like you from a series I used to play."
She perks up at that, and nods her head.
"Are you sure? She was kinda a princess character, but-"
She just nods harder, and I sigh.
"Alright, alright, then I guess your name is Ankha now, happy?"
She cheers, and skips happily to rub up against my side.
Well, it looks like we have one more friend.
As we make our way back to the forest, Ankha suddenly stops and rushes back.
I can see her grab something, and she rushes back to hand it to me.
Wait, this is-
She holds a hand out, and waits patiently.
"Are you sure? I only barely know what this thing is, but what if it screws with your mind?"
She rolls her eyes and shakes her head, meowing something I can't understand.
Cattiva is nodding in agreement however, so I sigh in defeat.
Tossing the Palsphere at Ankha, it sucks her in in a flash of light.
After shaking a few times, it clicks shut, and rushes back to me.
Letting her out of her sphere, she cheers and brushes against me again.
What is with her?!
I sigh as we finally begin to make our way back to the camp.
Hopefully I can figure out what's going on with her, because I feel like she shouldn't like me this much so quickly…
Suddenly, I notice something in my menu.
Huh, I've leveled up.
Opening it up, I see that there's more Technology options available, but also…
A new tab.
[Paths]
I focus on the new icon, and take a look at what it shows.
The Path of The Hunter, the Path of The Trainer, and the Path of The Warrior are both shown, and I can see that I have 4 Points to spend.
Focusing on the description, I start reading.
(The Path System will reward you for your efforts in walking the Paths set out before you. By spending Points, your ability in a given Path will grow, and allow you to do more things in line with that Path.)
(The three Paths currently available are the Path of The Hunter, the Path of The Warrior, and the Path of The Trainer.)
(The Path of the Hunter will make you more skilled at pursuit and archery, using ranged weapons to take out your foes from afar. Along with this, it will make it easier to track down specific targets, and execute plans to take them down.)
(The Path of The Warrior is what it says on the tin. It will make you stronger, faster, and more capable of fighting your foes directly.)
(The Path of The Trainer is unique in that it will boost your ability to train you Pals in new Moves and Techniques, and will allow them to grow in strength far faster, while granting you more insights into how to bring out their power.)
With that finished, I carefully assess which Path I should put my Points in.
I put a point into Hunter, a point into Warrior, and then the last two into Trainer.
The walk back is long, but I can tell that there's a difference.
My eyes are keener, my stride is smoother, and I bypass obstacles that would have slowed me much more easily.
It seems this System is no joke.
(You now have a +5 to all Hunting rolls (Archery, Tracking, etc) and a +15 to all Melee Rolls. Along with a +10 to Training Rolls.)
Regardless, we've returned to camp, and the sun is starting to go down.
Looking back to the [Technology] tab, I look over my options.
The simple bed is obvious, and I get to work on those as Cattiva and Ankha settle in.
A half hour later, the four of them are cheering as I put together the last bed, and I get to work on the chicken as they check out their new digs.
When the chicken finishes, I relax into my own bed as I chow down, sounds of enjoyment coming from my new companions.
Suddenly, Ankha turns to me, and offers a chicken leg.
I think for a second about what I should do in response, before making my choice.
I accept the offered chicken leg, and pass her one of my own.
She looks slightly surprised, but takes it with an ecstatic purr, quickly chowing down on the savory meat.
I finish my own chicken rather quickly after that, and lay myself down in the bed I made.
I let out a deep breath as I stare up at the stars.
There's so many…
I think…
I think I like this place.
Even with all the danger.
I absentmindedly notice Ankha brush my hair out of my eyes as I let them shut, and fall asleep.
Just what is up with her?
-x-X-x-
I blearily blink my eyes as light filters through the trees.
Well, now I know for a fact that yesterday wasn't a dream.
Pulling myself up, I hum happily at the lack of back pain.
That is something I definitely won't miss.
Stretching my arms out, I take a look around camp.
Cattiva is warming himself near the fire, which he must have figured out how to start up, Lamball and Chikipi are chatting while snacking on some berries, and Ankha is still curled up in the bed right next to mine.
Huh, did I put it that close last night?
Shaking it off, I pull myself up and start making myself breakfest.
The other join me as well, and I finish my own dish and look over to Ankha's bed.
Still asleep, huh?
Picking up her portion, I take it over to her.
"Hey" I say as I gently shake her.
She growls slightly as she opens her eyes, but I smile as I offer the food.
"Here, I made food, have something to eat before you get up."
She blinks at me, and licks her lips.
Probably just the smell of the food.
Regardless, she takes it from me and chows down, devouring the chicken and berries.
When she's done, she gets out of her bed with a stretch, and rubs against me as she makes her way to the fire.
Huh, I guess she liked that.
Regardless, I follow her to the fire.
"Alright, I know we like the simple life, but I want to ask, are there any friendly humans nearby?"
The three look at each other while Ankha shrugs, and finally Cattiva nods.
I blink at that.
"Where, if you don't mind me asking?"
He points off in a direction, and I consider my options.
"I'm gonna build a basic base first, then we can go check out the humans." I decide.
With that, I look over my Tech Points.
Well, at the very least, it's only one Point for the Wooden Structures Set.
I select it, and go over what I'll be able to make.
Well, ok, first I need some specialized tools.
Thankfully, they come with the set.
A few hours later, I have an Adze, a chisel, a gouge, and a smaller hatchet to shape the wood.
With that, I get to work.
Ankha helps me out with shaping the wood, and after a good few hours, we have a small building set up.
I groan as I set the last part of the roof in place, and step back as I look over my work.
The building is basic, more of a shack than anything, but it's my work, and I'm proud of it.
Walking in, I look over the hearth in the middle, and the moved beds on the floor.
I even managed to spend a point to build a stone chimney!
Now, however, I don't really have anything else I can do.
I don't have the nails needed for more complex things, despite having the Tech unlocked, and I need actual metal to make proper tools.
So, it's about time to go see what those humans have.
Cattiva leads the way as we trek through the forest, passing a number of new Pals as we make our way towards the village.
At least, I think it's a village.
Finally, however, we come to a stop after about two hours of walking.
There's a few flags at the entrance to a small ravine, and a small watchtower looks over the entry point.
"Hey there, you look lost!" I look up to see the watchtower, and a man in… police gear is waving down at me.
"A bit, yeah!" I shout back. "I don't suppose I can come in?"
"Come on in, just make sure those Pals of yours behave, yeah?"
"Got it!" I shout back.
With that, I make my way into the village, and meet the officer at the entrance.
He speaks first.
"You're of those Castaways, right?" He asks "You look pretty out of place, and we get them every few months or so, though most don't last too long."
"Really?" I ask.
"Yeah, they're often not really good at living in the wilderness, and usually get themselves killed trying to catch a Pal or something." He says with a shrug "Some do settle down though."
"Well, that's not all that encouraging" I say with a sigh.
"Eh, just do your best to stay alive." He says "Anyways, the Village Elder is gonna want to talk to you, he's the old guy with the big beard down the hill."
I nod and thank him, and the three of us make our way down the hill.
The village itself has maybe a hundred people at most, from what I can see, and some of those are likely merchants and the like.
Finally, I reach the area he mentioned.
"Well now, you must be a Castaway." Says the old man.
"Yeah, just washed up yesterday."
"Well then, I suppose you don't know all that much about how things work around here, do you?"
I wince at that.
"Yeah, I'm… Kinda out of my depth. Would you be willing to teach me the basics?"
He hums. "Well, I suppose I can answer a few questions, but for the most part it's probably best if I give you a Survival Guide."
I quirk an eyebrow at him.
"What's a Survival Guide?"
He chuckles "It's a Codex of information that can be uploaded into a persons System. Regardless of how said System works."
Alright then, time to see what I can learn.
"Well then, aside from the obvious of not killing people or stealing things, are there any laws that I should be aware of?"
He chuckles at that.
"Not much, my boy, however, capturing humans within Pal Spheres is a crime everywhere, and will be met with force. Other than that, there are few laws, or real government, in most of the Southern Isles." He explains "While the villages might have laws, they don't project power outside of their immediate borders, and the PIDF are simply enforcers we pay a tithe for."
I nod in understanding, but slot the mention of the PIDF away for later.
"Well then, is there any currency, or is it just bartering?" I ask.
"You can use Gold Coins like this one." He explains, producing a gold coin and handing it to me. "In fact, have this pouch here, it should be enough to get you some basics, and it's pocket change for me."
He hands me a small sack filled with a number of coins, and after a bit, I estimate that there's about 200 of the things in here.
I look at him cautiously.
"Are- Are you sure, sir?" I question "This seems like… A lot of gold to just give someone."
He laughs at that, but shakes his head.
"You Castaways are always like this, but yes, gold isn't all that hard to come by here in the Palpagos Archipelago, but it keeps well and serves as good decoration so everyone's willing to trade for it." He chuckles and continues "Regardless, you can still barter, gold coins are just ubiquitous."
I sigh and slide the pouch into my inventory.
"Alright, then I've got to ask, what's the deal with the whole System thing?"
He rubs his beard in thought. "Well, that's actually a rather complicated question, but I'll do my best to explain. You see, everyone, and I do mean everyone, has a System, however, that System reflects the person themself, and while sometimes a System can be similar, they're always different." He explains. "They always have a Technology system though, and I've never found one that can't hold Codexes. Those are little tablets that you can inscribe information in, by the way."
I nod, a little overwhelmed, but decide to come back to this later.
"Then what should I look out for?" I question "Like, what threats are there in the area?"
He hums, but his eyes get shadowed.
"The Rayne Syndicate is the most common. They take Pals and sell them to the highest bidder, while also getting up to all sorts of other things. Raids, theft, robbery, they're no good scoundrels that spit on their founder's name." He spits "Their 'Boss' is Zoe Rayne, she's the daughter of their founder, and is kept in the dark about their actual activities. If you run into her, be careful, but try to give her a chance, will you?"
I sigh and nod, accepting his request.
"Now, what else do you want to know?"
I think on it for a moment before I remember what I came looking for.
"Oh! Where can I get some metal, I need nails and stuff, but having the materials to make proper tools would make things a lot easier for me."
He chuckles at that, but points towards a building with smoke billowing out of it.
"That building over there is the Smithy, Bernard works the forges, but it's also where we smelt all our metal. They've got plenty of nails, and you have enough to get some proper tools outright, but I suspect you'll just make them yourself."
I chuckle and nod, before coming to my last question.
"Alright, lastly, about Pal Spheres, what's the deal with those? Do they mess with the Pal's head, or is there something else that makes them willing to follow orders?"
He strokes his beard for a moment, before shaking his head.
"No, while the Spheres control humans to some extent, they don't have that effect on Pals. The Pals made some form of treaty in ancient times to answer to those who proved able to catch them however, and so will generally listen if you catch them." He explains "However, if treated poorly, they'll turn against their owner, and free themselves. You don't seem like the type to have that problem, but be careful of people who do. It can get… Bloody."
With that, he sighs and picks up a tablet from the basket a younger man offers him.
"Alright, that's enough questions for this old man. Let's get you this Survival Guide so you can be on your way."
I look at the device curiously.
"How do I use it? Do I have to carry it or-"
He cuts me off. "Just put it in your Inventory."
I look at the tablet with a little disappointment.
Taking it, I insert it into my Inventory, and a new tab pops up.
Scrolling through it, I skim the contents.
Hm, Elements, Leveling, Palboxes, Breeding Forms, Technology,-
Wait, Breeding Forms?!
Opening the option, I start reading.
(Breeding Forms)
(Pals in their normal state do not possess genetalia, and while they can indeed reproduce through Immaculate Conception, they more often take mates, in some rare cases even among humans. As such, in order to copulate, they take what is known as a 'Breeding Form', a form that not only gives them genitalia, but also makes them more attractive and compatible with prospective mates. In some cases, this can allow an animalistic Pal to take a Humanoid form, with Chillet being one of the most notable examples. These more extreme changes are often more common in Females, with them often gaining breasts and more human proportions, but also can be found in Males, as, for example, a male Leafan will have notably feminine features, including breasts, despite having a penis. Other Pals, such as Lovander, are more extreme, with male Lovander appearing to be entirely Female with the exception of their penis…)
The article continues from there, but I am focused on something else.
Ankha…
I had though she just liked me.
Now, however, I'm looking back on our interactions.
…
I really am a dumbass, aren't I?
I sneak a look at her, and she simply gives me what I now recognize as a saucy look.
Well.
We'll figure that out later.
"Thank you Elder, I'll be on my way." I respond quickly.
He just laughs.
"Don't be a stranger young man!"
Now then, time to settle my business and head back to camp.
And figure out what to do about Ankha.
-x-X-x-
Walking towards the Smithy, I decide to get the essentials first.
A bell rings as I open the door, and I take in the interior.
It's actually pretty homey, a neat mix of Hellenic Greek and Medieval.
"Well hello there, you must be new!"
Behind the counter is a large, muscular man with a wide smile and no shirt, only pants and an apron.
I lick my lips at the sight.
I may not be looking to play, but I'm still going to admire the sights.
I hear Sekhmet giggle besides me, and make my way to the counter.
"I am, I heard you can get me some iron and nails?"
He nods happily.
"Yup, old Bernard has everything you need! Now, what are you looking for?"
I discuss with him what I'm looking for, and a few minutes later, I walk out of the smithy with ten ingots and enough nails to make the romans jealous.
Granted, my purse is 50 Gold Coins lighter, but that's a small price to pay.
Some seeds could go a long way.
Walking around for a bit, I eventually get pointed to a general store that sells what I'm looking for.
Walking through the door, I begin to look around, greeting the shopkeeper as I look through the selection.
Hmm, some potatoes, the Red Berries, some Spring Onions, Cabbage, Broccoli.
That should do it.
I skip over the wheat for now, since I don't have a mill, but I check out with only 10 Gold Coins spent.
All in all, a good haul.
Now, what next…
I should… Probably take precautions for tonight.
Making my way to the Apothecary, I nervously step through the door.
"Well now, I don't believe I've ever met you deary, what can old Auntie Ethel get for you?"
I swallow thickly as I walk up to the counter.
"Um, do you have anything that can help with… Physical Activity?" I ask quietly, and she looks over me and Ankha with a smile.
"Of course dearie, just give me a moment, you just need something to stay energized, yes?"
I nod as she turns to grab whatever she's looking for.
Behind me, I feel the warmth of Ankha's body press up against me.
I take a shaky breath as she purrs into the back of my neck, her arms circling around me gently.
She lets me go as Auntie Ethel returns, and I take the offered bottle with a blush.
"Now you be safe young man, I know that Pals can get rather rowdy when they get heated, but that's no excuse to hurt someone!" She lectures.
"I-um-thank you ma'am, here's the payment!"
I hastily hand the five Gold Coins over to her, and make my retreat.
Ankha is even closer to me now, practically pressing up against my side.
She's so soft…
I shake it off and focus on the task at hand.
Making my way to the Weavers Hall, I ask around about what kind of cloth I can get.
Thankfully, it doesn't take long for me to get the materials for a large bed (Unlocking the Technology as I do so) and pick up a set of basic Chitons for myself.
That Technology apparently falls under Basic Clothes, so I spend a point on that as well.
Now, I have an inventory full of tools and materials, a stamina potion to avoid any unfortunate accidents, and enough metal to build a proper building, tools, and furniture.
There's a few more things I could do, but I spent another 15 Gold Coins with the Weavers, and I only have 120 Gold Coins left.
-x-X-x-
I think that's enough for today.
"Alright you two, time for us to head back."
Ankha purrs happily at that, and Cattiva nods as we make our way to the entrance of the village, waving to the guard as we walk away.
He stops me for a moment.
"Hey, if you don't mind, where abouts are you setting up shop?" He asks.
"Why do you want to know?"
He shrugs "We like to keep some records of where Homesteads are, if only so we can point traders in that direction, and if we get stuck in the wilderness, knowing where to find a safe place is a lifesaver."
I think about it for a moment, but ultimately, it's probably for the best that at least someone knows where I am.
I give him a rough estimation of where the camp is, along the narrow river, and he nods.
"Ah, there's not many people in that area, but the tributary you're on is pretty fertile, though be careful about Syndicate goons, I know they like to camp out in the area sometimes."
I nod, and we part ways in good spirits.
From there, the walk back is rather boring, winding down the road until we split off to the forest paths, following them until we walk deep into the brush, finally reaching our destination.
"BAAAAAAA!"
"CHICHCICHICHCHIK!"
The two we left behind greet us warmly, and I give them pats on the head as the Pals all get reacquainted.
Looking up at the sky though, it seems there's a few hours until sunset…
I take a look at Ankha, and she flicks her eyes to the building.
Well, I suppose it would be a good idea to make things a bit more private.
And get a proper bed ready.
Her purring seeps into my bones.
Yeah, that's probably a good idea.
-x-X-x-
I get to work quickly, and the hours fade as the fugue of work fogs my mind.
The building goes up, the bed forms together, the door goes on just right, and I even have some time to put together a table and chairs!
Don't have the kitchen yet, but I've got the space set aside.
Regardless, I finish off the last of my chicken and take a deep breath as I sit by the fire.
Am I really going to do this?
I've never done it with a human before, and getting together so quickly…
Cattiva swats at my leg to snap me out of it.
I give him an earnest smile.
"Thanks bud, we'll have to come up with a name for you one of these days, yeah?"
He rolls his eyes and points to the house with a deadpan look.
I may not be able to understand him, but even I can tell what he's trying to say.
'Stop being a chicken and go get your Mate.'
Or something like that.
Lamball waves happily as he and Chikipi go into their house, and Cattiva joins them.
With that, I'm alone, and I pull out the stamina potion Auntie Ethel gave me.
Downing it, I walk into our house.
Ankha is waiting for me.
.
------------->
.
I swallow thickly as I approach.
I stop just short of getting into the bed however, and Ankha simply looks at me patiently.
"Um, Ankha, I-" I stumble over my words. "You- are you asking me to be your Mate?"
She smiles tenderly at me, and nods.
I gulp.
"Do- Do you want me to breed you, Ankha?"
She just gives me that tender smile again as she nods, and I can barely hold myself back.
"Then I accept."
I drop my clothes, and Ankha's purrs magnify as her gaze takes in my body.
She slowly shifts as I get into the bed, and I look at her as she begins to finger herself..... >
I take a deep breath as my cock hardens, and she purrs at me as I take my place on top of her.
.
--------------->
.
I slowly line myself up with her pussy, and she wraps her legs around me as I hold onto my last bit of restraint.
Finally, I let go.
Slamming my cock into her pussy, I groan as it tightens around my length like a vise, squeazing me as I pull back for another thrust.
Ankha lets out a yowl of pleasure as I ram my cock as deep as I can, already panting as I growl.
.
------------>
.
I lose myself as I thrust into her again and again, slamming into her warm pussy hard enough to shake the bed under us as she nearly screams her approval, her legs locked around me like a vice leaving me only just enough room to thrust into her.
Finally, I feel my orgasm approaching.
"Fuck, Ankha, gonna- CUM!"
She yowls as I slam my cock in as deep as I can, the tension in my body bursting all at once as she cums so hard that fluid soaks my thighs, and I groan as I unload deep inside her.
.
------------->
.
I take deep, gasping breaths as I cum harder than I ever have in my life, and after what feels like an eternity, my orgasm ends, and I pull out.
Letting myself slump into a sitting position, I swallow thickly.
Holy fuck.
I just lost my virginity to a cat girl.
Suddenly, I hear shuffling from in front of me.
Looking back at Ankha, I take in the sight.
.
------------>
.
I instantly harden back to full mast.
Growling, I quickly position myself behind her, and grab the base of her tail, ramming my cock into her needy pussy.
.
------------->
.
She yowls as I pull up the base following some unknown instinct, and fuck her tight cunt for all it's worth, gasping as she cums around my cock like the needy pet that she is.
I lose track of time fucking her, slapping her ass as I take her from behind like a beast.
Finally, I feel my hips tighten, and with a roar, I slam myself as deep as I can.
.
------------>
.
I pant as I pull back, looking over the thoroughly bred Sekhmet.
For all that I wasn't expecting to be a father this soon…
I think we're going to be having quite a few kittens.
She flops over onto her back, and looks up at me with a burning gaze.
Yeah.
We're going to be at this for a while.
-x-X-x-
I look down at my chest, and sure enough, a purring Ankha is laying on me.
I can smell the evidence as well.
Fucking hell, just how long did we go at it last night?!
Sighing, I plant a soft kiss on her head.
Apparently, that was enough to wake her up, as her eyes blink open as she looks up at me.
She mewls sweetly as she brushes her head against my chin, and I relax into the affectionate gesture.
However, we really need to get up.
"Hey, Ankha, c'mon, we need to go wash up." I mumble, and she whines before taking a whiff of herself to prove me wrong.
I'm instead vindicated when her nose crinkles, and she makes a disgusted face.
Honestly, I don't think she smells that bad, but my opinion only sort of matters.
Plus, I read a bit about scents in the Survival Guide on the way back, and it said something about Pals smelling good to their partners, but not to themselves.
I'll have to take a closer look later, but now is the time for a bath.
We both stumble out of bed, and make our way out of the cabin.
Thankfully, it seems our other companions aren't up yet, or at least not here, and we make our way to the river unimpeded.
With that, we wash each other off, and get started on our day.
Gotta say, it's weird not having any responsibilities beyond the next meal.
-x-X-x-
Taking up my tools, I get to work.
The labor is grueling, pulling weeds, cutting down trees, uprooting the stumps, and so, so much more.
But finally, I have a basic garden.
It's not much, maybe the size of a small yard, but I've got enough planted that we should have a good crop.
At least, we would…
If it wasn't already sprouting.
Reading through the Survival Guide, I find the section of Farming.
(Unlike the norm for most Castaways, plants grow quite quickly here on the Palpagos Archipelago, and we get a good harvest every 3 days or so, and can even get it down to a few hours with Grass Pals!)
…
Well, that explains why food is so abundant.
Whatever, it's noon, and I need to get started on making proper tools.
-x-X-x-
The work is exhausting, but at least I'm making progress.
The Technology tab allows me to spend a Point to unlock the Forge, and I take Basic Stone Structures as well to make sure I don't risk burning the place down.
Finally, after hours of work, I watch in satisfaction as the forge burns hot.
It's simple, and the Anvil was an absolute pain, but it works.
With that, I peer up at the sun, and note that I've only got a few hours before it sets.
…
Well, I best get to work on the tools themselves.
I shoulder the finished Adze, and look out at the setting sun.
Well, I've got everything finished, at the cost of…
The entire day.
…
Well, there's always the next day, and I'm not in any kind of rush.
It's…
It's actually pretty refreshing.
Walking back to the cabin, I set the Adze with the rest of the tools in the chest I put together and enter the cabin.
Sitting on the bed, waiting for me naked and with a bowl of fruit, is Ankha.
…
Yeah.
I can get used to this.
I pull myself up and stretch, leaning over to plant a chaste kiss on Ankha's head.
Last night was very nice.
Today, however, I have quite a bit I want to do.
Hmmm, best to get the house finished.
At least for now.
I get to work, chiseling a way at stone to make a wood burning stone, and chiseling a water basin for washing.
From there, I spend some time making a few buckets, pans, and pots, working some metal into a good spit and preparing firewood for the Hearth and stove.
Finally, I wipe the sweat off my forehead, and look at my work.
It's not a modern kitchen, but it works just fine.
Now then, it's about noon, so there should be enough time to do a few more things…
-x-X-x-
The Ranch was a simple concept, but getting it up and running would let Lamball and Chikipi actually produce things.
I call the two over as I get to work, and start asking what they want.
"So, this is where I want to put the Egg house, but can you give me some recomendations on size?"
"Cluckcluckcluck!"
"Ah, that works, now Lamball, see these shears? You can use this to trim your excess wool easier, and we can use it to make cloth. Just use them like this…"
"Baaabaaaaa!"
"Yep! There you go, just don't get too overzealous, I don't need you hurting yourself or trimming too much."
"Baaaaa!"
"Man, you really like those huh?"
"Baaaaaaaa!"
I chuckle, picking up the wool we gathered.
Suddenly, Ankha taps me on the shoulder.
"Oh, is there something you need dear?"
"Mrrr, meoow, meaa!"
She makes a spinning motion, like-
"Ah, do you want to try spinning cloth?"
She nods happily, and I make my way over to my materials.
"Well, let me get to work on a Spinning Wheel for you, then I can get a Weaving Loom put together."
She cheers at that, and I thank whatever god may exist that weaving tools came with the Workbench Technology.
A few hours later, the complicated tools needed for spinning yarn and weaving fabric are done and set up in our house, with Ankha happily spinning away with what wool we have so far.
Lamball cheers her on, and I can't help but be a little surprised.
She's obviously unpracticed, but she's really talented at this!
(Ankha will now produce fabric and clothes!)
-x-X-x-
Looking up, I wince as I realize I only have a few hours left in the day.
Well, I'm just going to have to make it work.
Walking down to the river, I look curiously at the glowy blue rocks.
Shrugging, I hoist my pickaxe and get to work.
A few minutes later, I analyze the glowing blue ore I've pulled out.
So this is Paldium?
I look at the Technology tab, and decide on my first use for it.
Palspheres can wait, for now, I want to see what this Shield can do.
Walking back to camp, I spend the point to unlock it.
Huh, that's… Strange.
Oh, the knowledge is there, but…
It's far less integrated than everything else.
It makes some sense, I have no idea how this stuff works.
But how am I supposed to use it.
Setting the needed materials on my workbench, I get to work.
Ten minutes later, I look down confused at the triangular device.
That…
How did I do that?
Where did the metal come from?
…
That, I suppose, is a question for later.
Picking up the device, I latch it onto my belt, and pick up a small rock.
Tossing it up in the air, I let it fall towards me, and-
It bounces off a barrier.
The barrier itself is made of hexagons, but that's not all.
Focusing on the corner of my vision, I note the blue bar has decreased just slightly.
Well.
It seems I have a shield.
…
Yeah, I'm not stupid enough to test it out.
Looking out at the sunset, I smile as I pick up the last bit of dinner.
Greens, berries, and a bit of chicken.
Can't go wrong with that.
Opening the door to our cabin though, I'm met with quite the distracting sight.
.
------------>
.
Well, I suppose the food can wait.
-x-X-x-
I pull myself out of bed with a smile.
The birds are singing, the grass is green, and a well-fucked catgirl is in my bed.
This is the life.
Alright, first of all, I need to see what's up with making these Pal Spheres.
While I could indeed make them at my normal Workbench, one made specifically for the purpose of Palspheres would allow me to make them much quicker.
It only takes an hour to put together, and with that, I gather up some more Paldium, and get to work.
Though… Was there more Paldium by the river this morning that yesterday?
Hmmm…
Thoughts for later.
I let the fugue take me as I get into a rhythm, and after at least an hour of hammering, chiseling, and etching, the work is done.
…
I have… Maybe half an idea of what I did to make these.
The insides required strange runic etchings, and the metal turned gold when I finished, but even at a glance…
Yeah, I know these will work.
(You now have 10 Pal Spheres!)
(It is a few hours before Noon.)
-x-X-x-
The second trip is much more successful.
This time, I take Cattiva with me as a guide, and he does quite well.
Apparently, the little guy is rather adventurous, and known the area fairly well.
Looking through the bushes at the massive Mammorest, I can't help but wonder what else might be around here.
A lot, apparently.
I've discovered at least a dozen new Pals, maybe two dozen in the local area, including some that show some promise as future team members.
For one, the webs I found to the east are apparently made by something called a Tarantriss.
Next, the splintered boulders and trees are apparently something left behind by something called a Leafan.
After that, I had discovered that Mammorest could be found all throughout the area, though they ranged from Level 14 to Level 40.
Then, Dinossom is a large, roughly 8 to 9 foot tall Grass type Pal that can I saw a few times, and seems friendly enough, while also harboring quite a bit of power.
Finally, Chillet is the Ice type Pal that I got a look at making its home on a nearby hill.
There were a bunch of other ones, but I've only kept them in my notes.
Unfortunately, that isn't all there is in the area.
I've found no less than three Rayne Syndicate bases nearby, though thankfully far enough away that they don't pose a threat.
(You have found Most of the things nearby.)
(The list of Pals you can now seek out is: Lamball, Cattiva, Chikipi, Lifmunk, Fuack, Vixy, Cremis, Croajiro, Herbil, Teafant, Gumoss, Pupperai, Clovee, Jolthog, Depresso, Pengullet, Hoocrates, Daedream, Tanzee, Nox, Rooby, Rushoar, Foxparks, Eikthyrdeer, Direhowl, Caprity, Mozzarina, Sparkit, and Ribbuny.)
(This list includes Main Recruitable Pals. The ones mentioned in the text.)
-x-X-x-
With that done, I trundle back into my cabin after sundown, sinking into Ankha's arms in exhaustion.
Man, that was a long day.
-x-X-x-
Day 4
After getting ready for the day, I walk over to Ankha.
"Hey Ankha, I think it's about time I see what you can do."
Ankha looks a bit surprised, but hops up with a cheerful nod.
I direct her to a nearby clearing, and she stands ready in front of a large log.
"Alright, let me see a basic attack."
She seems to debate with herself for a bit, before suddenly, she winds up and punches forwards, a large hunk of mud ripping out of the ground to crash into the log.
Looking at my Menu, I open the new Party tab.
There, I open the icon for Ankha, and see that there's a move list. On it is a single shown move, along with three hidden moves.
Huh, Bog Blast.
I look back at Ankha and give her a thumbs up.
"Alright, show me another move, melee this time if you can!"
She nods back at me, and rushes up the the log, her claws shrouded in whitish energy that gouges deep into the log, sending splinters flying.
She jumps back, and looks at me proudly as I nod.
According to the System this move is simply called Slash.
Yeah, there's only so much you can call the basics.
"Alright Ankha, how many more Moves do you have?" I ask.
She thinks for a moment, before raising two of her fingers.
"Alright, show me both of them!"
She nods and turns back to the log. Raising a hand towards it, a ball of energy gathering in her hand before it shoots at the log, leaving a large crater.
Finally, she pulls back both of her arms, and punches forward, causing a dozen boulders to rip themselves out of the ground and fly towards the log, breaking it into pieces with a thundering crash.
I raise an eyebrow at her as she huffs proudly.
Yeah.
We've got this.
"Alright, now let's get started on actual training!"
She blinks at me in confusion, and I let a smirk slip onto my lips.
"Give me ten Slashes against that boulder, stat!"
She balks, but rushes over to comply. Her claws become coated in energy, and swing through the rock with a crack, again and again.
After five swings though, she's already flagging.
She pants as she slams a seventh blow into the stone, but this one doesn't do more than scratch it.
With that, I step in.
"Alright Ankha, that's enough!" I shout, and she wilts as she makes her way back to me.
"Hey, you just need to train!" I soothe "Now come on, we'll practice your other moves as well, then we can come back to Slash!"
She springs up with a fire in her eyes, and I smile proudly at her motivation.
By the time our training ends, she's yowling victoriously from the top of the shattered remains of the boulder, her Slash finally having broken it apart.
-x-X-x-
"Hey, Ankha, I'm going to go see about getting us a new team member, would you mind coming along?" I ask.
She quirks her head at me, but makes a hand symbol we put together than means she's not sure what i mean.
"Oh, a team member is another Pal who I'll take with me into fights and such, rather than one I keep around to help out around the base." I explain "They'd be a lot like you, following me around and joining me in fights."
I'd explained what I expected from her as a Pal shortly after she joined me, and it seems she remembers that talk as understanding dawns on her face, and she nods.
"Good, then let's get ready and get going!"
With that, we set off, and I make a path headed towards the area where I saw signs of the Leafan.
Suddenly, a shape shoots down the trees, and I flinch back expecting an attack.
Instead, I find something wildly beyond my expectations.
.
----------------->
.
…
…
WHAT?!
I hear Ankha meow curiously behind me.
…
I turn to Ankha.
"Um, I- I won't- uh-"
She simply giggles at me and walks over to the Leafan, starting up a conversation.
Leafan is obviously nervous, not helped by my lack of reaction, but eventually they seem to reach a conclusion.
Suddenly, there's two small flashes of light, and when I look back, both of them are in their Breeding forms.
.
----------------->>
.
*chuckles* 'I'm In Danger!'
I never though about whether Ankha wanted monogamy or not, did I?
Thankfully, the two don't jump me, but Leafan slowly lays on her back as Ankha guides me over.
.
------------>
.
Before they can start anything though, I gently take the flower from Leafan's hand, and plant a small kiss on it.
The panda woman somehow blushes like a tomato, but I'm too busy being stripped by Ankha to focus on that.
Finally, I'm naked as the day I was born, and Leafan is breathing heavily as I line myself up with her.
.
--------->
.
Gently, I slide myself into her slowly.
Her hips thrust up as I enter, a cry of pleasure escaping her as her back arches, her breath coming in quick bursts as I take her for the first time.
.
----------------->
.
Fuck she's so damn cute like this.
I let myself lean forward some as Ankha licks my neck, nibbling at me as I take what I suspect is my new Mate.
Mate? Wife?
I'm not sure what to call it, but I have an idea.
I reach forwards and take her hands in mine, and groan she tightens like a vice.
Did… Did she just cum?
.
---------->
.
I don't stop, panting as I take the needy Pal underneath me, her moans and cries getting louder and louder as I fuck her soaking cunt.
I grunt as I push further, folding the Pal as I adjust her into a mating press, grinding my cock as deep as I can get it into her quivering form.
I feel her come around me again, and groan as I start feeling the tension build.
"Fuck you're tight~" I grunt in her ear "Cumming around me so much, you're so damn breedable like this~"
She whimpers as I keep talking, as I tell her just how I'm going to breed her.
I slip my tongue into her mouth in an impromptu makeout session, curling around her tongue as she whines like a damn puppy.
"Fuck, what am I going to with you~" I gasp as I pull away "How are you supposed to fight when you're going to be spending so much time knocked the fuck up-"
She moans out something that's probably nonsensical, but I grunt as I thrust just a little bit faster.
I'm close.
Grunting, I push her deeper into the dirt.
"Fuck, are you ready Hun? I'm gonna knock up those breedable fucking hips!" I grunt out, and her moaning gets even louder.
Finally, I let loose, slamming my hips into her as her back arches up into me, her hips shaking against me.
.
------------->
.
My vision goes nearly white as I orgasm, pulling deep breaths into my lungs as I ride it out.
I let myself lean back as she settles, licking my lips as Ankha nibbles on my ear, my hips shuddering under the ministrations of the two Pals.
Finally, I look back down at Leafan.
.
-------------->
.
Fuck.
I've let go of her hands, but the panda woman is fucked silly.
I groan as Ankha's hand slides down to my cock, pulling the sensitive organ out of my new mate as I shiver.
Well, looks like I'm not done yet.
-x-X-x-
I smile as I wash Leafan's back, using my hands to brush the fur there clean of the sweat and dirt from our coupling.
Leafan leans back slightly, blushing as she shifts my hands to her front, and I plant a small kiss on her cheek as I get to work on her chest and stomach.
"So, I assume you're interested in joining me?" I hum, and she nods.
"Well, you know that means you'll be training with us, right?" I question "I expect you to follow my orders in the field, just like any other Pal."
She actually straightens at that, making a sound as she nods firmly.
I chuckle "Well, then I suppose that's it then. But it also means you're likely going to need a name."
She looks curious at that, and points to me.
I sigh "Yeah, alright, I'll come up with one, just give me a minute."
With that, I let myself think.
"How about Mulan?" I start, but she shakes her head at that one. "Mei Ling then?" Nope, not that one either "Hmmm, what about Chun-Li? She was a legendary martial artists from a series back in my homeland-"
She nods rapidly at my explanation, and I smile.
"Chun-Li it is then"
With that, I let silence reign as we finish up our bath.
Pulling my Chiton back on, I pull a Palsphere out of my inventory and turn to Chun-Li.
She nods, offering her arm to me with a smile, and I toss the Palsphere.
She disappears in a flash of light, and the sphere shakes twice before, with a click, it returns to my hand.
(You caught a Leafan!)
-x-X-x-
I open the door as the three of us return to the cabin, and turn to Chun-Li to show her around, but it seems Ankha has beaten me to it.
The two make all sorts of noises as Ankha shows her around, and I note that I recognize a few of them.
Hmmm, with a bit of work, I might be able to understand her properly.
The night is here though, and I'm quite tired from the day's activities.
Thankfully, the two of them are as well, and I settle in for the night between two sinfully soft bodies.