Theo thought about it, then thought some more. Summoning a combat minion would only make things worse. Not to mention that he’d also have to grant the minion flesh or cast an illusion so it looked human. And even then, could he actually rely on minions to do as he asked? By definition, Cmyk was supposed to be a loyal and hardworking digger. The creature hadn’t done a moment’s work in its existence unless there was a huge personal benefit.

“Forget that,” Theo quickly said. “I want to create a human copy of myself in order to deal with this.”

There’s a perfect skill for that, sir. It’s rather expensive, but still within your means.

“Just get on with it before Cmyk does something we’ll all regret.”

Spok felt overjoyed. Finally, Theo had asked for a skill that was both useful and dungeon-like.

CREATE FREE AVATAR

The one time ability to create an outside entity of yourself. The avatar is able to leave the dungeon freely, while also sharing all skills already obtained. Since all energy comes from the dungeon, the amount of energy required increases with distance.

The appearance of the avatar is determined by the dungeon upon creation.

Before the spirit guide could explain the advantages of the avatar above any simple summon, Theo had already cast it. The form that was created was humanoid, tall, slender, with tanned bronze skin and long curly black hair. In his past life, Theo would have chosen an appearance much closer to that of Cmyk. In fact, had he used the ability a day ago, he would have created an avatar that was an exact copy of Cmyk. However, the Legendary Swashbuckling skill that he had recently learned had given him a new aesthetic understanding.

“Nice,” Theo said, looking at his hands.

With the snap of a finger, a mirror appeared before him, allowing him to admire his new form. Everything from his clothes to the charming—and slightly scoundrelly—grin on his face were a mix between a pirate and a musketeer, both from popular romantic novels. Sadly, he didn’t have long to admire his appearance. The conversation with the city guard lieutenant was progressing poorly, focusing on Theo to rush down in haste.

“Lieutenant,” Theo said with a wide smile, pushing Cmyk to the side.  

The grand entry made the city guard pause. His mind struggled to come to terms with seeing a tall skinny man move a massive, unmovable warrior with such ease.

“Err, and you are?”

Theo stared blankly, only now realizing that in all the commotion, he hadn’t come up with a name.

“Theodor d’Argent,” the avatar said, the first thing that came to mind. “I happen to be the owner of this building.”

“Ah, my apologies, sir. I was not aware that… I mean to say, I thought that this was the person who lived here.” The lieutenant glanced at Cmyk.

“Ah.” Theo nodded. “A common mistake. I sent him over to get the building in order before I came in person. As you might have noted, it’s a magic building.”

“I see that, sir.”

“A fully registered building on a legally purchased plot of land,” Theo continued. “I believe that has also granted me the title of baron as well?”

“Forgive me, my Lord. It’s rare that one meets nobility outside the castle. As I was trying to inquire—"

“Why I’m here,” Theo finished the sentence. “Well, you see, I decided to move to a nice, calm place in nature to avoid the chaos of the big city. You know what it’s like, right?”

“I have never left Rosewind, my Lord,” the captain said flatly.

“Ah, and you haven’t missed a thing. It’s so much more charming and adventurous here.”

The captain narrowed his eyes. There appeared to be something very fishy going on, yet he wasn’t able to put his finger on it.

“Ahem,” the lieutenant cleared his throat. “I’m here to inquire about the disturbance.”

“Disturbance?” Theo asked, feigning ignorance.

“Two extremely dangerous thieves were found tied up in front of this very door.”

“You don’t say.”

“Their description matches that of part of the Claw Hook band that has been causing havoc throughout the region.”

“Oh, my. That sounds quite serious. I’m glad that they were captured, then.” Theo attempted to quickly close the door. Before he could succeed, however, the lieutenant managed to grad it with his right hand. Since Theo didn’t want to crush the man’s knuckles, he reluctantly allowed the door to be opened again.

“As I was saying, my Lord, the people who managed to capture them have earned an official reward from Earl Rosewind,” Lieutenant Ribbons continued in exceedingly formal fashion. “And since the thieves were found in front of your door, and there were quite a few witnesses seeing them being thrown out of your door, you and your companion are to come with us immediately to the earl. Unless there’s some reason for that to be inconvenient for you.”

“No, not inconvenient at all.” Theo smiled. “Let’s go right now.”