Chereads / Masked Knight : Enigma / Chapter 4 - Adventurer Guild!

Chapter 4 - Adventurer Guild!

Hayato and Mia emerged from the dense forest, greeted by the vast expanse of a beautiful green land stretching out before them. The sunlight bathed the landscape, casting a warm glow over their faces as they took in the breathtaking view.

Eager to continue their journey, Hayato revved the engine of his bike, preparing to race ahead. However, as they rode along, Mia's sharp eyes spotted a commotion up ahead. A group of bandits had surrounded a small band of adventurers and a weary merchant, their intentions menacing and clear.

"Mia, we should keep going. It's none of our business," Hayato said dismissively, wanting to avoid any unnecessary trouble.

But Mia, ever compassionate and mindful of the dangers they had faced in the forest, urged him to reconsider. "Hayato, remember when you helped me? We have to help them. It's the right thing to do."

Hayato hesitated, annoyance creeping into his voice. "Fine, but only because of what you said."

With a daring display of skill, Hayato steered his bike into the midst of the bandits and their captives, attracting their attention. The bandits were bewildered by the sight of Hayato and his peculiar mount, pausing momentarily in their wicked intentions.

Mia wasted no time. She jumped off the bike and quickly joined the merchant, standing defiantly behind the group of adventurers. Her presence bolstered their spirits, knowing that someone had come to their aid.

As the bandits advanced, one of them shouted at Hayato, demanding that he stay out of their business. Hayato smirked, revving his engine once again and preparing to teach them a lesson.

With a calculated maneuver, Hayato struck one of the bandits with the back tire of his bike, sending him sprawling into his comrades. The bandits were taken aback, their confidence shaken by Hayato's audacious display.

Hayato taunted the bandits, mocking their feeble attempts to instill fear. The adventurers, worried about Hayato's provocative behavior, pleaded with him to cease his taunts and focus on ensuring everyone's safety.

Hayato reassured them, his eyes gleaming with confidence. "Don't worry, these weaklings won't be a problem."

As the bandits charged at him, Hayato raced his bike towards them with astonishing agility, skillfully dodging their attacks. His strikes landed with precision, rendering most of the bandits unconscious and scattering the remaining few.

The adventurers, now free from the clutches of their tormentors, rushed to thank Hayato, expressing their gratitude for his unexpected intervention. Mia approached Hayato, a mix of concern and admiration on her face.

Hayato, his ego still inflated, told Mia to hop back onto the bike as they prepared to continue their journey. The adventurers and merchant, eager to repay their debt, asked Hayato how they could show their gratitude.

Hayato, ever pragmatic, requested some monetary compensation and directions to the nearest town. The merchant graciously handed him a pouch containing a hundred gleaming gold coins, a generous reward for his valiant act.

The adventurers pointed Hayato towards the direction of a town called "Gladins," offering their guidance as well. Sensing Hayato's desire to travel alone, the merchant asked if he could accompany them, hoping for the added protection on the journey.

Hayato, with a tinge of annoyance, declined the offer, citing the speed and freedom he enjoyed when traveling alone. Mia, though she disagreed, remained silent, respecting Hayato's decision.

With their farewells exchanged, Hayato and Mia set off once again, leaving the grateful adventurers and merchant behind. As they rode into the distance, the chapter came to a close, their story continuing on its enigmatic path.

And so, Hayato and Mia's journey continued, filled with adventures, challenges, and the promise of discovering a way back to Hayato's world. The road ahead was uncertain, but their spirits remained resolute as they ventured forth, ready to face whatever awaited them beyond the horizon.

After traveling a considerable distance, Hayato and Mia finally reached the outskirts of the town. They gazed upon the bustling streets and towering buildings in the distance, relieved to have arrived at their destination. Hayato decided it was time to leave the bike behind, knowing that it would draw too much attention.

Hayato: "We're here, Mia. We'll continue on foot from here. It's better not to attract too much attention with the bike."

Mia nodded in agreement, understanding the need for discretion.

Hayato ejected the platinum EnigMod from his phone, causing the bike to dematerialize in a swirl of dust. They began walking towards the town's gate, joining the flow of people entering and exiting.

As they reached the gate, a guard stopped them, his gaze suspiciously lingering on Hayato's unusual appearance.

Guard: "Hold on there! State your business and provide identification."

Hayato rummaged through his bag, searching for his wallet. He retrieved it and showed the guard his ID card, hoping it would suffice.

Hayato: "Here's my ID card. We're just passing through."

The guard examined the card, his expression growing more perplexed by the second.

Guard: "This... This isn't what I was expecting. What kind of identification is this?"

Hayato realized his mistake, forgetting that his Earth identification wouldn't be recognized in this realm.

Guard: "Are you associated with the Adventurer Guild or the Merchant Guild? We need proper identification."

Hayato and Mia exchanged glances, both shaking their heads.

Hayato: "No, we're not part of any guild. We're simply travelers passing through."

The guard's stern expression didn't waver.

Guard: "I'm sorry, but without proper identification, I can't let you enter the town."

Hayato's frustration started to build, and he glanced around, hoping for a way to resolve the situation.

Just then, the familiar faces of the adventurers and the merchant group from before emerged from the crowd. Zephyr, one of the adventurers, noticed the commotion and approached.

Zephyr: "What's happening here? Is there a problem, Guard?"

The guard explained the situation to Zephyr, referring to him as if seeking assistance.

Guard: "These two individuals don't have proper identification, and I can't allow them to enter."

Zephyr turned to Hayato and Mia, a curious look on his face.

Zephyr: "I remember you two. You helped us back there. They're with us, Guard. They're trustworthy."

The guard hesitated for a moment, unsure of Zephyr's claim.

Guard: "I can't simply let them in based on your word alone."

Sir Agnus, the merchant, stepped forward, addressing the guard with authority.

Sir Agnus: "I can vouch for them. They have our gratitude for their assistance. Allow them entry, and I'll personally take responsibility."

The guard hesitated once more, considering Sir Agnus' reputation and influence.

Guard: "Very well, Sir Agnus. I'll grant them entry under your sponsorship. But remember, any trouble caused by them falls on your shoulders."

Hayato and Mia expressed their gratitude to Sir Agnus, relieved that their entry was secured.

Hayato: "Thank you, Sir Agnus. We appreciate your help."

Sir Agnus nodded, his face carrying a mix of curiosity and admiration.

Sir Agnus: "No need to thank me. It's the least I could do for your assistance earlier. Enjoy your time in the town."

With the guard's clearance, Hayato and Mia stepped into the town, ready to explore their new surroundings. Zephyr approached them, offering further guidance.

Zephyr: "Since you're new here, I suggest you register at the Adventurer Guild. It'll provide you with proper identification and access to quests. Come with me, and I'll show you the way."

Hayato and Mia agreed, appreciating Zephyr's help.

Hayato: "Thank you, Zephyr. We'll follow your lead."

Together, they made their way to the Adventurer Guild, entering the bustling establishment. Zephyr directed Hayato and Mia to the receptionist's table, where a friendly face awaited them.

Lyra, the receptionist, greeted them warmly.

Lyra: "Welcome to the Adventurer Guild. I'm Lyra. How may I assist you today?"

Hayato introduced himself and Mia, explaining their desire to register as adventurers.

Hayato: "I'm Hayato, and this is Mia. We're here to register as adventurers."

Lyra smiled, eager to help.

Lyra: "It's a pleasure to meet you both, Hayato and Mia. To register, please fill out this form and pay a fee of 50 silver coins each."

Hayato and Mia filled out the registration form and handed it back to Lyra, along with the required payment. Lyra then directed them to a private room.

Inside the room, a table held a crystal ball, its smooth surface captivating.

A man seated at the table beckoned to Hayato.

Man: "Place your hand on the crystal ball, and your guild card will be created."

Hayato followed the man's instructions, feeling a surge of energy as his hand made contact with the crystal. A guild card materialized, displaying his name, photo, guild rank, and race.

Mia, curious yet excited, approached the crystal ball and placed her hand upon it, mirroring Hayato's actions. Her guild card appeared, capturing her information as well.

With their guild cards in hand, Hayato and Mia returned to the receptionist's table.

Lyra began explaining the guild's rank system and quest requirements, ensuring they understood the responsibilities.

Lyra: "As F-rank adventurers, you'll need to fulfill at least two F-rank quests or one E-rank quest each week. Failure to do so may result in the revocation of your guild cards. As for the rest you can see the requirement at bulletins board"

Hayato nodded, his determination evident.

Hayato: "Understood. We'll fulfill our obligations as adventurers."

As the day grew darker, Hayato and Mia decided to find an inn to rest and satisfy their hunger.

Hayato: "It's been a long day. Let's find an inn to settle in and grab a bite to eat."

Mia agreed, her stomach growling in agreement.

Mia: "I'm starving. Lead the way, Hayato."