So you just started playing this gigantic new text game and you have a class, joined a city, and maybe even accepted compliance by joining a House. Now, however, you spend much of your time idly within the confines of familiarity, not knowing what it is you are interested in doing outside the walls of your city. You could explore the other cities in the text game, a topic for perhaps another article for another time, or you could delve into the expansive world of Achaea that lies outside of the cities, to see what unique wonders you can find.
Here are five suggestions to get you started on your search.
1. Treat yourself in the seaside town of Tasur’ke
Create custom treats in Allea’s Candy Shop by dipping an apple in caramel or a cherry in chocolate. Don’t forget to top them with sliced almonds or crushed candy cane pieces! With six different fruits to choose from, three dipping sauces, and three dry dressings, your ability to customize your treat to your particular taste seems endless. This trip is perfect for a family outing, to buy gifts for someone special, or simply to pamper yourself.
On the other hand, if sweets aren’t your cup of tea, just head around the corner to the smoke shop where Davel, a tobacco merchant, sells a wide variety of snuffs, tobaccos, and cigars. With a type of smoke to satisfy every craving and palate, Davel’s products are truly habit-forming!
2. Get your journal custom bound at Suthaine’s Bookbindery in Arcadia.
Don’t settle for conformity! Personalize your journal, or choose one to personalize, at Suthaine’s Bookbindery. For a fee, Suthaine will rebind her journal with her handpicked selection from her wide range of fabrics, typefaces, and colors. Let your journal be a fashion statement that is as unique as you are.
3. Pair with Marianna’s Perfumes and Cosmetics.
A must-visit before any date night or illustrious event, Marianna’s Perfumes and Cosmetics is a one stop shop for all things luxurious located in the village of Caer Witrin. From candles that fill the room with scents that excite the senses to perfumes that turn the wearer into the spotlight wherever they go, Marianna has truly mastered the art of enhancing beauty. Also browse their selection of different makeup products and shades, but remember to buy a mirror to receive your full transformation effect!
4. Head north to listen to the Universal Membrane.
While the journey to the Saoghal Valley is long, those who make the journey will find it well worth it. There, below the Lake of Soaghal, you will find the Universal Membrane. Here, the spoken words of all realms are captured as the voices travel across the membrane of the universe to the ears of those who remain. Learn the secrets of Sapience, be amused by random pranks, and gain some clarity on world events.
5. Explore New Thera.
When your legs wear out from all the walking, take a private room at the Wander Inn in New Thera to get some sleep. You will need the rest to be able to fully enjoy all that the town has to offer.
Money can certainly buy your love at the pet shop in New Thera, so take your winnings from your fast trip to Ace of Spades Casino and buy yourself a loyal companion. Daveed, the animal trainer, has carefully raised and trained a wide variety of dogs, cats, and birds that would be grateful for a good home. Name them, feed them, play with them, and train them to do a few tricks while you’re at it!
Once you’re done picking out some toys and treats for your new companion, head over to Shura, Mistress of Games and visit her game store to reward yourself with one of a wide selection of games. From Mancala to Pearls, you’ll find days of entertainment in store inventory. Choose a game you’re already familiar with or challenge yourself to learn a new one with the help of a well-written set of instructions.
Finally, after all that time away from your hometown, take time to reconnect with friends through the very special stationery sold by Josie, a mere artist. A variety of bright colors, the letters sold in this store can be made into a variety of shapes. A scroll paper on the wall offers various suggestions ranging from an angel to a snake, and a whole range of creatures and elements in between.
While there are many other delights hidden within the expansive world of Achaea, outside your city walls, there is certainly something to be said for the joy of discovery. Open up when you find yourself idle and dare to leave your homeland and explore the entirety of the text game world. You may be pleasantly surprised with what you find.
By Teresa Harlan
