We thank Captain Adolf, who grunts in acknowledgment, already moving on to the next task at hand. We step out of the room and enter the city, the buzz of activity greeting us immediately. The sheer volume of people moving in all directions amazes me. The air is filled with the sounds of chatter, merchants calling out their wares, and the clatter of animal-drawn carts on cobblestone streets. The smells are a mixture of fresh bread from nearby bakeries, the pungent aroma of livestock, and the faint scent of something sweet from a vendor selling pastries.


    As we walk, I notice the variety of people: traders haggling over goods, townsfolk carrying baskets filled with produce, and guards patrolling the streets with vigilant eyes. Apollo walks beside me, its imposing figure blending surprisingly well among the knights and armored figures we pass.


    A group of children run by, laughing and playing a game of tag. Their carefree joy brings a momentary smile to my face. They weave through the crowd effortlessly, their laughter ringing out above the city''s din.


    In the distance, a deep, resonant bell tolls, its sound cutting through the noise of the city and momentarily drawing my attention upward. I marvel at the tall spires and intricate architecture, a mix of stone and wood buildings adorned with colorful banners and signs.


    Apollo seems to be taking in the sights as well, its head turning slightly as if observing everything with keen interest. It''s a lot to take in, but it''s also fascinating. This city, with its lively atmosphere and diverse inhabitants, is unlike any place I''ve ever seen. I can''t help but feel a sense of wonder as we continue our journey through the crowded streets.


    "I wonder where the Adventurers Guild hall might be," Apollo asks, but my growling stomach interrupts.


    Apollo turns toward me and catches me eyeing a stand selling a variety of cooked foods. The stand displays an array of sizzling meats on skewers, freshly baked bread rolls stuffed with various fillings, roasted root vegetables seasoned with herbs, and sweet pastries glazed with honey.


    Apollo points out my distraction. "You seem quite interested in that food stand."


    I nod. "I can''t help it." I walk over to the stand, my mouth watering at the delicious smells.


    The vendor, a cheerful man with a thick beard and a twinkle in his eye, greets me warmly. "Welcome, traveler! What can I get for you today?"


    I glance over the array of foods. "What are these?" I ask, pointing to the skewers and pastries.


    "Ah, these are my famous meat skewers," the vendor says, lifting one to show me. "Marinated in a blend of spices and grilled to perfection. And these," he gestures to the pastries, "are honey-glazed pastries, a local favorite. We also have stuffed bread rolls and seasoned root vegetables."


    I stare at the food, unable to decide. The vendor notices my indecision and smiles. "If you''re having trouble choosing, I''d recommend the meat skewers. They''re a best seller."


    "Alright, I''ll take one of those," I say.


    "That''ll be 2 copper pieces," the vendor replies.


    I hand over the coins, and the vendor wraps up the skewer, handing it to me with a grin. I take a bite, savoring the flavorful, tender meat.


    Apollo gently reminds me, "We still need to find the Adventurers Guild."


    "Oh, right," I say, looking back at the vendor. "Could you tell us where the Adventurers Guild is?"


    The vendor nods enthusiastically. "Of course! Head straight down this main street until you see the fountain. Take a left there and follow the road until you reach the marketplace. You''ll see a large building with a sign bearing a crossed sword and staff—that''s the Adventurers Guild. You can''t miss it."


    "Thank you," I say, appreciating the detailed directions.


    "You''re welcome! Enjoy your skewer and good luck at the guild!" the vendor calls out as we continue on our way, navigating through the bustling city streets toward our destination.


    With the directions in mind, we start our journey through the bustling streets of the city. I take a bite of the meat skewer, savoring the burst of flavors. The meat is tender and juicy, perfectly marinated with a blend of spices that leaves a pleasant, lingering heat on my tongue. Each bite is better than the last, and I find myself fully immersed in the simple pleasure of a well-cooked meal.


    The city''s main street is a lively thoroughfare lined with a variety of shops and stalls. To my left, a blacksmith hammers away at a glowing piece of metal, the rhythmic clanging blending with the background noise of the city. The air around his shop is warm, and the smell of hot metal and coal wafts over to us. Next door, a tailor is busy fitting a noblewoman with an elegant dress, their conversation punctuated by the snipping of scissors and the hum of a sewing machine.


    Street performers entertain passersby with juggling acts and acrobatics, their brightly colored costumes catching the eye. A group of musicians play a lively tune on stringed instruments, drawing a small crowd that claps along with the beat. The melodies mingle with the scents of fresh bread from a nearby bakery and the tang of spices from a vendor selling aromatic herbs.


    As we approach the fountain, its water sparkling under the midday sun, children play and splash, their laughter ringing out joyously. The fountain itself is an impressive structure, carved from stone with intricate designs of mythical creatures that seem to come to life with the movement of the water.


    Following the vendor''s directions, we take a left at the fountain and head toward the marketplace. The marketplace is a bustling hive of activity, with stalls offering everything from exotic fruits to handmade jewelry. The vibrant colors of the goods on display, combined with the energetic bartering of merchants and customers, create a lively, almost chaotic atmosphere.


    As we continue, I notice a bakery with a line out the door, the smell of freshly baked bread and pastries mingling with the scent of flowers from a nearby florist''s stall. Artisans display their crafts, from intricately woven tapestries to finely carved wooden figures. The chatter of the marketplace is interspersed with the calls of merchants advertising their wares, creating a symphony of sound that is both overwhelming and exhilarating.


    Finally, we reach a large building at the edge of the marketplace. The sign above the entrance bears the image of a crossed sword and staff, indicating that we have arrived at the Adventurers Guild. The building is imposing, constructed from sturdy stone with wooden beams supporting the structure. It has an air of importance, a place where many have come to seek fortune and adventure. I finish the last bite of my skewer, savoring the final burst of flavor.


    ?????


    The Adventurers Guild building looms large and imposing before us. Its exterior is constructed from solid stone, weathered with age yet still exuding an aura of strength and stability. Wooden beams crisscross the facade, supporting the structure and adding to its rustic charm. The roof is tiled with dark, slate shingles, and ivy climbs up one side, giving it an ancient, almost mystical appearance. Tall, arched windows line the walls, their glass panes glowing with the warm light from within. The entrance is marked by a heavy wooden door, reinforced with iron bands, and the sign above, depicting a crossed sword and staff, hangs proudly, swaying slightly in the breeze.


    I take a deep breath, feeling a mix of excitement and anticipation. "This is it," I say, glancing at Apollo. We push open the heavy door and step inside.


    The interior of the guild hall is even more impressive than the exterior. The ceiling soars high above, supported by massive wooden beams that crisscross like the ribs of a great beast. Chandeliers made from wrought iron hang from the beams, their candles casting a warm, flickering glow over the entire hall. The walls are adorned with tapestries depicting grand battles, legendary heroes, and mythical creatures, adding a sense of history and grandeur to the space.


    The main hall is bustling with activity. Long wooden tables are scattered throughout the room, each surrounded by adventurers of all kinds—warriors clad in heavy armor, mages in flowing robes, agile rogues sharpening their daggers, and archers with bows slung across their backs. The tables are laden with maps, scrolls, and an assortment of weapons and equipment, as adventurers plan their next quests or celebrate their recent victories. The air is filled with the sound of animated conversation, the clinking of tankards, and the occasional burst of laughter.


    A large fireplace dominates one wall, its roaring fire providing warmth and a cozy atmosphere. Above the mantle hangs a massive, ornate sword, a symbol of the guild''s strength and legacy. Near the fireplace, a group of adventurers shares stories of their exploits, their faces illuminated by the firelight.


    To the right and further back, a notice board is covered with a myriad of quests and missions, each represented by a parchment pinned to the board. Adventurers crowd around it, scanning the available jobs and discussing potential rewards. Some of the parchments have intricate illustrations of the creatures to be hunted or treasures to be found, adding to the allure and mystery of the tasks.


    To our right, a bar runs along the length of the wall, manned by a burly bartender who effortlessly handles the flow of orders. Shelves behind the bar are stocked with an impressive array of bottles, each containing different kinds of spirits and potions. A few adventurers sit on stools at the bar, enjoying a drink and exchanging news and rumors.


    A staircase at the back of the hall leads to an upper level, where possibly private rooms and meeting areas offer a more secluded space for planning and discussion. The wooden steps creak under the weight of the adventurers ascending and descending, adding to the lively ambiance of the guild.


    As we step further inside, the sheer scale and energy of the place becomes even more apparent. It is a hub of activity, a melting pot of diverse individuals united by their pursuit of adventure and glory. The sense of camaraderie is palpable, and despite the noise and chaos, there is an underlying order and purpose to everything happening within the hall.


    Apollo and I exchange a glance, both of us taking in the sights and sounds. This is the heart of the adventuring world, a place where legends are born and destinies are forged. We are ready to become a part of it.


    Apollo and I make our way to the reception area, weaving through the bustling crowd. The reception area is situated near the entrance, a large wooden counter dominating the space. Behind the counter, shelves filled with parchment, scrolls, and various guild documents are neatly organized. A chandelier hangs above, casting a warm, inviting light over the area.


    As we approach, a few adventurers take notice of us. One, a burly man with a scar running down his cheek, leans over to his companion and mutters something, both of them glancing in our direction. A group of younger adventurers, possibly just starting their journey, whisper among themselves, their eyes wide with curiosity. It''s clear that our appearance is a sight to behold, and our arrival has sparked a bit of interest.


    A cheerful receptionist stands behind the counter, her smile bright and welcoming. She has a youthful appearance, with vibrant blond hair tied back in a ponytail. Her eyes are a striking ruby red, and freckles dot her cheeks, giving her an approachable, friendly look. She''s dressed in a simple yet elegant gown, the colors of the guild embroidered along the hem and sleeves.


    "Good day!" she greets us warmly, her voice carrying a melodic tone. "Welcome to the Adventurers Guild! How can I assist you today?"


    I step forward, offering a polite nod. "My friend and I would like to sign up with the guild."


    Her eyes light up with interest. "Really? You both don''t look like newcomers."


    I smile, trying to think quickly. "We''ve had some experience in the field," I reply smoothly. "But we thought it was about time we made it official and joined the guild. You know, for the camaraderie and access to more... challenging quests."


    She chuckles, clearly entertained by my response. "I see! Well, you''ve come to the right place. Let me get you both signed up." She reaches under the counter and pulls out two forms, placing them in front of us along with quills and ink. "I''ll need you to fill these out with some basic information. Name, skills, and any previous experience you might have."


    As I look at the forms in front of me, it becomes apparent that I''m not entirely sure how this world''s guild system operates.


    "Forgive my ignorance," I begin, choosing my words carefully, "but could you explain exactly how this guild works? Ranks, professions, skills, the whole system. You see, my friend and I come from a... rather secluded place where information like this isn''t common knowledge."


    The receptionist raises an eyebrow, clearly curious but also intrigued. "A secluded place, you say? That must have been quite an adventure on its own." She smiles, leaning forward with genuine interest. "Well, let me break it down for you."


    With a smile she begins. "The guild is a large organization that exists to manage and support adventurers like yourselves. It provides quests, training, and resources, and helps maintain order and safety within the realm."


    She points to a large board on one side of the room where various notices and quests are pinned. "Quests are the primary way adventurers earn their keep and gain experience. They range from simple tasks like gathering herbs or delivering messages to more dangerous missions such as slaying monsters or exploring uncharted territories."


    The receptionist continues, "Adventurers are ranked based on their skills and accomplishments. The ranks start from Bronze, moving up to Silver, Gold, Platinum, and the highest being Diamond. Each rank has specific criteria and achievements required to advance. The higher your rank, the more prestigious and challenging the quests you can undertake."


    She takes a deep breath before continuing. "There are various professions adventurers can specialize in, such as warriors, mages, archers, healers, and more. Each profession has its own set of skills and abilities. For example, warriors excel in physical combat, mages in casting spells, archers in ranged attacks, and healers in restoring health and curing ailments."


    "Skills are honed through practice and training. The guild offers training facilities and mentors who can help you improve your abilities. Additionally, some adventurers choose to learn multiple professions, becoming versatile in various skills, which can be quite advantageous."


    She pauses, letting the information sink in before continuing. "The guild also has a system of party formation. Adventurers often form parties to take on quests together. This allows for better strategy and cooperation, especially on more dangerous missions. Parties can be permanent or temporary, depending on the needs and goals of the adventurers involved."If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. Please report it.


    "Rewards from quests usually come in the form of coins, valuable items, or rare materials. The guild takes a small percentage as a fee for their services, but the majority of the reward goes to the adventurers who completed the quest."


    She gestures to a few adventurers who are interacting with each other, sharing tales of their exploits. "There''s also a strong sense of community within the guild. Adventurers often support each other, share knowledge, and sometimes even compete in friendly contests to test their skills."


    The receptionist looks at us with a warm smile. "I hope that gives you a good understanding of how the guild operates. It''s a system designed to help adventurers grow, support each other, and ensure the safety and prosperity of our world."


    As she concludes, I nod appreciatively. "Thank you for the detailed explanation. It seems we have a lot to look forward to."


    She beams at us, clearly happy to have helped. "You''re welcome! If you have any more questions or need further assistance, don''t hesitate to ask. Welcome to the Adventurers Guild!"


    Apollo and I thank her and make our way through the bustling guild hall, weaving between tables filled with adventurers sharing stories and planning their next quests. The atmosphere is alive with energy, the clinking of tankards, and the hum of conversation. We find an empty table near a large window overlooking the city, and I take a seat, placing the form and a quill in front of me.


    As I look at the forms in front of me, I notice something peculiar—the written language on the forms is one I recognize. This world uses the Aurebesh alphabet, the most common written language in the galaxy.


    I carefully examine the form, noting the sections for name, class, skills, and experience. My mind races as I consider how to present myself in a way that aligns with this world. I print my name, ''Ryu Chikara,'' in a neat script, then move on to the class section. I recall the various professions the receptionist mentioned and decide to label myself as a ''Rogue.'' It fits the gear I''m wearing and allows for some flexibility in my skillset.


    For the skills section, I list abilities that are plausible for a rogue: ''Stealth,'' ''Sword and Dagger Proficiency,'' ''Lockpicking,'' and ''Acrobatics.'' These are skills I can convincingly demonstrate if needed. When it comes to experience, I keep it vague yet impressive: ''Experienced in various clandestine operations and adept at navigating challenging terrains.'' It''s truthful enough without giving away too much about my actual background.


    I glance over at Apollo, who is filling out its form with mechanical precision. I see the honest details about its abilities and origin. I quickly lean over, placing my hand on the paper to stop him. "Apollo, you can''t write that. We need to fill this out with details that fit this world."


    Apollo''s turns its head towards me and I can see in the slits of its helmet its mechanical eyes narrow slightly. "Being dishonest isn''t really in my programming, Ryu."


    I sigh, feeling a bit frustrated. "I understand, but in this scenario, it''s necessary. Trust me on this."


    Apollo hesitates, then nods. "Very well, but I cannot knowingly provide false information."


    Thinking quickly, I grab the form and stand up. "I''ll get a new one. Just... wait here."


    I make my way back to the receptionist, who is busy assisting another adventurer. When she finishes, she turns to me with a warm smile. "Is everything alright?"


    "Yes, everything''s fine. My companion just filled out the wrong sections. Could we get another form?" I ask, keeping my tone light and casual.


    She nods and hands me another form. "Of course, here you go."


    "Thank you," I reply, heading back to our table. I sit down and take a deep breath, then start filling out Apollo''s form myself. I give it a fitting last name that I''ve used back at the gate, ''Apollo Steelton.'' It has a strong, mythical ring to it, suitable for a droid posing as a knight.


    For the class, I write ''Knight.'' It fits his imposing stature and the armor its wearing. In the skills section, I list ''Swordsmanship,'' ''Shield Mastery,'' ''Heavy Armor Proficiency,'' and ''Combat Strategy.'' These are skills that align with his actual abilities but are phrased in a way that fits this world.


    When it comes to experience, I write, "Trained in various combat techniques and experienced in aiding others in battle." It hints at his strategic capabilities without revealing his true nature.


    I finish filling out the form and hand it to Apollo. "There. This should work."


    Apollo scans the form, then looks at me. "Ryu, this still feels... dishonest."


    I place a reassuring hand on his arm. "Sometimes, blending in requires a bit of creativity. We''re not lying about your abilities, just presenting them in a way that fits this world."


    Apollo nods slowly. "Very well. I trust your judgment."


    ?????


    With our forms filled out, Apollo and I make our way back to the reception area. The receptionist is engaged in conversation with another adventurer but looks up and smiles as we approach.


    "All done?" she asks cheerfully.


    "Yes," I reply, handing over both forms.


    She takes them and begins to read over the details, nodding occasionally. "Ryu Chikara, Rogue. Stealth, Sword and Dagger Proficiency, Lockpicking, Acrobatics. Experienced in various clandestine operations and adept at navigating challenging terrains." She looks up at me with a curious smile. "Sounds impressive."


    I nod, trying to appear modest. "Thank you."


    She then turns to Apollo''s form. "Apollo Steelton, Knight. Swordsmanship, Shield Mastery, Heavy Armor Proficiency, Combat Strategy. Trained in various combat techniques and experienced in aiding in battle." She raises an eyebrow. "Quite the impressive resume as well."


    Apollo inclines its head slightly. "I strive for excellence."


    The receptionist chuckles. "Well, you both certainly sound well-qualified. My name is Felicity, by the way. Welcome to the Adventurers Guild."


    "Thank you, Felicity," I say, appreciating her warm demeanor.


    "Now, there''s one more thing we need to do before we can finalize your registration," she continues. "We need to test your magical output."


    I blink in surprise. "Magical output?"


    Felicity nods, her smile never wavering. "Yes. We need to gauge your magical potential, even if you don''t use magic directly. It helps us understand your overall capabilities."


    She steps away from the counter and disappears through a door behind her. Apollo and I exchange a glance, both curious and slightly anxious about this test. After a short time, Felicity returns, carefully carrying a small pedestal topped with a crystal orb. She places it gently on the counter between us.


    The orb is about the size of a grapefruit, glowing faintly with an inner light that shifts colors slowly, from blue to green to purple. Its surface is smooth and reflective, and tiny runes are etched around its base, glowing softly in response to its magical energy.


    "This is a magicka orb," Felicity explains, gesturing to the pedestal. "It measures the magical potential of whoever touches it. When you place your hand on the orb, it will light up in response to your inherent magical energy. The brighter the light, the higher your magical potential."


    I nod, intrigued. "And what if someone doesn''t have any magical potential?"


    She smiles reassuringly. "Everyone has some degree of magical energy, even if it''s very small. The orb will respond accordingly. It''s just a way for us to better understand your abilities."


    Apollo and I exchange another glance, and I can see the curiosity in its mechanical eyes. "Shall we?" I ask, motioning toward the orb.


    "Yes," Apollo agrees, its tone determined.


    Felicity steps back slightly, giving us space. "Whenever you''re ready, just place your hand on the orb."


    Apollo steps forward and places its hand on the orb. The room falls silent as we all watch intently, waiting for the orb to respond. Seconds pass, but nothing happens. The orb remains dim, without any hint of light or color change.


    Felicity frowns, puzzled. "That''s strange. The orb should be reacting." She leans towards the orb and places her own hand on it. Immediately, the orb glows softly with a gentle blue light, indicating a moderate level of magical potential.


    She places the orb back on the pedestal and looks at Apollo. "Try again, please."


    Apollo places its hand on the orb once more, but again, nothing happens. Felicity''s confusion deepens. "I''ve never encountered anyone without any magical potential before," she muses aloud, clearly baffled.


    Thinking quickly, I step in to explain. "Apollo wasn''t blessed with magic unfortunately."


    Felicity looks at Apollo with a hint of suspicion. "That''s very unusual, but every individual is different."


    She turns her attention to me. "Alright, your turn, Ryu."


    I take a deep breath and place my hand on the orb. Almost immediately, the orb begins to pulsate rather than glow steadily. The light within it throbs rhythmically, shifting through colors in a way that is both mesmerizing and strange.


    Felicity''s eyes widen in surprise. "I''ve never seen that before," she admits. "The orb is supposed to measure magical potential, but it''s behaving very strangely with you. It seems to be having a hard time identifying your magic."


    I look at the orb, then at Felicity. "What does that mean?"


    She shakes her head slowly. "I''m not sure. It suggests that you possess some form of magic, but it''s unlike anything the orb is designed to measure. It might be a rare type of magic or something entirely unique."


    She looks up at me and Apollo, a smile playing on her lips. "You two are certainly an interesting bunch."


    With that, she picks up the orb and returns it to the back room. When she comes back, she takes our forms and says, "It will take a short moment to create your identification badges. Please wait here."


    As she walks away, I exchange a look with Apollo. This world keeps revealing new mysteries, and I can''t help but feel that our journey has only just begun.


    Felicity returns, carrying a metal platter with two intricately designed badges. Each badge is crafted from a polished silver metal, with a bronze inlay depicting a detailed emblem of the Adventurers Guild. They have an almost mystical aura, reflecting the light in a way that makes the intricate designs shimmer.


    "These are your identification badges," Felicity explains, placing the platter on the counter in front of us. "They serve multiple purposes. First and foremost, they identify you as members of the Adventurers Guild and indicate your current rank. Every time you rank up, you must come back here to get a new badge that reflects your new status."


    She hands each of us a badge. "These badges also record your achievements and quests completed. As bronze rank adventurers, you are starting at the entry level, but with time and effort, you''ll move up the ranks."


    Apollo and I take the badges, hanging them over our chests. They fit comfortably, almost as if they were made specifically for us.


    "Welcome, officially, to the Adventurers Guild," Felicity says with a warm smile. "Now, let me explain how guild quests work."


    She gestures towards the large board on one side of the hall, covered with various parchments and notices. "Quests are categorized by rank. Bronze, silver, and gold rank quests are posted here on the main floor. Platinum and diamond rank quests are posted on the second floor, but access to that floor is restricted to adventurers below the rank of platinum."


    Felicity continues, "Each quest notice provides details about the task, the location, and the reward. To accept a quest, simply take the notice to the reception desk where it will be registered under your name. You must complete the quest and return with proof, if required, to receive your reward and any additional points towards your next rank."


    She smiles eagerly as she continues. "It''s crucial to only take quests appropriate for your rank. Attempting a quest above your level can lead to severe consequences, including injury or worse. If you fail to complete a quest, you must inform the guild immediately, so they can assign it to another adventurer."


    Felicity pauses, ensuring we understand. "In addition to quest regulations, there are rules within the guild hall itself. Respect your fellow adventurers, no fighting within the premises, and always maintain the integrity and honor of the guild. Breaking these rules can result in penalties or expulsion from the guild."


    She finishes with a warm smile, "That covers the basics. If you have any questions, feel free to ask me or any of the other staff. Welcome to the Adventurers Guild, Ryu and Apollo. We''re excited to see what you''ll accomplish."


    I nod, absorbing all the information. Apollo stands beside me, its new badge gleaming.


    "One more thing about these badges," she adds, holding up a finger for emphasis. "If your badge gets lost, stolen, or damaged, you need to report it to the guild immediately. A replacement badge can be issued, but it comes with a cost. For bronze rank adventurers like yourselves, the replacement fee is five silver pieces. Higher ranks will have higher replacement fees, reflecting the increased value and complexity of the badges."


    She looks between us, making sure we understand the importance of keeping our badges safe. "These badges are enchanted with protective spells to make them durable, but they can still be damaged or lost if not taken care of properly. They are your key to accessing guild services and proving your identity, so guard them well."


    Apollo and I nod in understanding, appreciating the additional information.


    "Welcome to the Adventurers Guild, Ryu and Apollo," she says once more, her smile broadening. "We''re excited to see what you''ll accomplish. If you have any questions or need further assistance, don''t hesitate to ask any of the staff or myself."


    As we step away from the counter, I feel a sense of readiness and anticipation. This is the beginning of our journey in Aranthia, and with our new badges hanging proudly over our chests, we''re prepared to face whatever challenges come our way.


    ?????


    As Apollo and I start scanning the quest board, I notice three adventurers entering the guild hall. They look to be in rough shape, their armor and clothes significantly poorer in quality than our own. I find myself staring at them, trying to place why they look so familiar.


    The knight is clad in mismatched, dented metal plates and a rusty helmet that barely fits. His bandaged left arm is a clear sign of a recent, painful injury. His once-proud cloak is tattered and stained, his sword chipped and dull. His shield is a hastily crafted piece of wood bound with iron straps, barely holding together.


    The rogue is dressed in patched leather armor that looks like it could fall apart at any moment. His cloak, which might have once been white, is now a dingy gray, torn at the hem and smeared with dirt. His daggers are rusted and dull, their sheaths barely hanging onto his belt.


    The mage wears tattered robes that look more like rags. His once-grand hat is crumpled and misshapen, the brim flopping down awkwardly. His staff, previously a symbol of magical prowess, is now chipped and cracked, held together by crude bindings.


    As they get closer, recognition dawns on me. These are the same adventurers we encountered in the cave. A thought occurs to me, and I remember them clearly as the trio who ambushed us.


    When they get even closer, I quickly turn back to the quest board, pretending to be deeply engrossed in the tasks listed there. Apollo does the same, mimicking my movements. As they pass by, I watch out of the corner of my eye. The guild members around us begin to notice the trio, their condition drawing attention.


    "Look at those three," one adventurer remarks, loud enough for everyone to hear. "Did they crawl out of a gutter?"


    Another adventurer laughs, "I''ve seen beggars dressed better than that!"


    "Must have lost a fight with a flock of chickens," another chimes in, prompting a round of mocking laughter.


    The reception area, normally bustling with activity, quiets down as Felicity starts her usual greeting. Her cheerful demeanor quickly turns to concern when she sees the state of the three adventurers. "Aldric, Talin, Eldrin, what happened to you? Did the golem do that to you?"


    Talin, with a weary look, shakes his head. "No, we found nothing in that cave. On our way back, bandits jumped us. They took everything we had except our briefs."


    Aldric winces as he shifts his bandaged arm. "They got us good. We didn''t stand a chance."


    Eldrin nods, looking sullen. "They were too many. We tried to fight them off, but it was no use."


    The guild hall erupts in laughter and mockery again. "Gold rank adventurers taken down by bandits!" one adventurer jeers.


    "Some heroes," another adds with a sneer.


    Aldric''s face flushes with anger, his hand clenching into a fist. He takes a step forward, ready to confront the mockers, but Eldrin places a calming hand on his shoulder. "Let it go, Aldric. We need to focus on getting back on our feet."


    Felicity''s eyes widen with sympathy. "I''m so sorry to hear that. Please, come to the back, and we''ll see what we can do to help."


    As the three adventurers head out, their story reverberates through the guild hall. The mocking comments die down, replaced by the usual chatter. Apollo and I exchange a quick glance, relief washing over us that our deception held, even as we resume our search for a suitable quest.


    After the three adventurers disappear, Apollo and I return to the quest board. I scan through the various notes and spot one within our rank that pays better than the rest. The reward is one silver, and the quest is to eliminate a group of goblins harassing a nearby farming village. I grab the note and bring it to the reception.


    Felicity looks up from her desk with a bright smile. "Have you decided on a quest?"


    "Yes," I say, handing her the note. "We''d like to take this one."


    She takes the note and reads it over. "Ah, the goblin extermination quest. It''s straightforward but can be a bit dangerous if you''re not prepared. The village has been having issues with goblins raiding their crops and livestock. You''ll need to travel there, meet with the village head, and have this mission pamphlet signed by them. As proof of kill, you''ll need to bring back the ears of the goblins you eliminate."


    I blink at that. "Ears? Why the ears?"


    Felicity nods, understanding my confusion. "It''s a common practice to ensure the goblins are truly dealt with. Goblins are tricky and can often escape even when you think you''ve got them cornered. The ears serve as proof that the goblins are actually dead and not just driven off. The guild also pays for monster parts so there''s some extra coins to be made from bringing them here."


    I nod, accepting the explanation. "Alright, that makes sense."


    She smiles again and provides directions to the village. "It''s a bit of a trek by foot, but it shouldn''t take more than a few days to get there. Just follow the main road east until you reach the fork near the old stone bridge. Take the left path, and it''ll lead you straight to the village. The head of the village, Elder Garrick, will be expecting you."


    Felicity hands me the mission pamphlet back. "Good luck on your quest and stay safe out there."


    "Thank you," I reply, pocketing the pamphlet.


    As we leave the guild, I can''t help but feel a pang of guilt for the three adventurers. While their condition was necessary to keep our origins a secret, I wonder if there is anything I can do to help them. Apollo notices my silence and asks, "What''s wrong, Ryu?"


    "I feel bad for those three adventurers," I admit. "It was necessary to deceive them, but I can''t shake the feeling that we should do something to make it right. Maybe pay them back the money they lost."


    Apollo nods. "We can still do that. Nothing is stopping us from helping them in some way."


    I agree, feeling a bit lighter. "You''re right. Once we finish this quest, we can find a way to make amends."


    With renewed determination, we leave the guild and step out into the bustling city, ready to embark on our first official quest as adventurers.