(As I looked at my base, I felt like it needed something. I just didn’t know what it needed.)

[player]: “Hmm…I wonder what I could set up now.”

(Looking at the bow and arrows I had with me, I knew just what I could set up now.)

[player]: “How about a target practice area?”

(I quickly got to work setting up the target practice area behind the base. As night began to fall, I finished the target practice area.)

[player]: “Perfect. Now I can work on my archery skills and improve my aim. This will definitely come in handy during my next adventure.”

(I picked up my bow and arrows and began practicing at the targets. It was a bit difficult at first, but with each shot, I began to get better and better.)

[player]: “This is fun. I’ll have to make sure to keep up with my practice every day.”

(I continued to shoot arrows, lost in thought of the skills I could gain through consistent practice. As daylight began to fade, I suddenly saw an arrow fly out of nowhere and land just inches away from me.)

[player]: “Whoa, what was that?”

(I turned around to see a strange girl. Her clothing resembled a skeleton, and her eyes were a dark gray color - just like her hair.)

Female Skeleton: “S-Sorry if I disturbed you. Kind of lost track of where I was shooting my arrows.”

[player]: “No worries, it’s just that I wasn’t expecting anyone to be shooting around here. Are you looking for a place to stay?”

Female Skeleton: “Actually, I am. Do you know if there’s any nearby?”

[player]: “Well, my base is just here. You could rest here if you’d like.”

Female Skeleton: “Thank you, I really appreciate it.”

(I led her to the base and showed her around. She seemed grateful for the shelter and thanked me again.)

[player]: “No problem. I’m [player], by the way. What’s your name?”

Female Skeleton: “I’m Ayumi. Nice to meet you, [player].”

[player]: “Nice to meet you too, Ayumi. Feel free to make yourself at home here.”

(After showing Ayumi around the base, I continued to practice my archery skills while she rested. As the night went on, we talked and got to know each other better.)

Ayumi: “So, what kind of adventures have you been on?”

[player]: “Oh, all sorts. I’ve fought against monsters, explored dark caves, and even saved a few villages.”

Ayumi: “Wow, you’re really interesting. Have you ever faced any powerful enemies?”

[player]: “Hmm, I guess the most powerful enemy I’ve faced was a giant dragon. It was quite the challenge.”

Ayumi: “That sounds incredible. I’ve always dreamed of going on adventures like that.”

[player]: “Well, maybe you can join me on one someday. Who knows what kind of adventures are out there waiting for us.”

(In that moment, I felt grateful for my base and the chance encounter with Ayumi. It reminded me of the infinite possibilities that came with exploration and adventure. I realized that I didn’t just need a target practice area to improve my skills, but also a companion to share it with. While we were talking, however, Ayumi suddenly handed me a strange piece of paper.)

Ayumi: "Hey, [player]. When you head to the Nether, could you take this to my cousin - Withra? Just so you know, she's skilled with the sword so you might want to bring a shield with you."