>>6126723The creature’s mandibles twitch as it releases a series of clicks and wet gargles that, while barely even recognizable as a form of communication on an auditory level, you recognize it instinctively as a feminine voice.
“Name and occupation?” It asks.
“Brad. Masters. Student.”
“Athlete-” Mike corrects, “He’s a bit more modern, boss.” He turns to you, explaining: “Student has implications down here.”
..Is he calling you stupid? Doesn’t really matter, but you can’t help but feel a little offended.
“I understand. Temporary housing will be provided until you either settle into a permanent residence or attempt to Climb.”
“How do you guys do day and night down here?”
“Oh, right, you’re new. The Lining glows for about, what would it be in Terran time?”
“20 hours, give or take. Then it stops for another 20. That means, in effect, days here are twice as long as they are on earth. Albian time is about the same as ours, but our chitinous friends here are pretty happy with it. Their days are about 43 hours Terran time.”
“So, he really is a Terran? I assumed based on his apparel, but it really is quite odd to see three in a row.”
“..is it that weird?” You ask.
“A vast majority of Drop-Ins are Albian.” the bug lady explains.
“Albians.. I guess if I had to make a comparison, it’s kinda like Middle Earth from Lord of the Rings?” Mike elaborates, “It’s not that similar, but, uh, they have elves and dwarves and stuff. Technology level is around high medieval. Ah, also, don’t call them ‘Albians’ to their face too much. They prefer ‘Children of the Gods’. It’s a religious thing.”
You haven’t read those books, and you thought the movie was kinda boring, but it’s a fantasy world, you get the gist.
“So, (Masters),” the bug lady says some series of clicks that obviously isn’t your name, but somehow you hear it as if it were, “You will receive a weekly allowance during your 30 day trial period of adjustment time, but after that you will need to work for your keep. For now, though, please rest and take your time adjusting down here. Once your ID is issued, you may begin to either Climb or seek employment.”
“And, uh, when is that?”
“It should be prepared in around 144 hours- or, if you prefer, three and a half days.”
“Oh, so, what do I do until then?”
She hands you a pouch containing 20 coins- ten copper, 14 silver, and one gold.
“This is your weekly stipend. We have already arranged for temporary housing in the Terran district, but it will take some time to prepare. You may explore during the day.”
>Ask more questions>Explore the city>Look for something to eat>Fast forward until your ID is issued>Write-in 