Morning arrived, and the academy's students streamed into the classroom. Olivia stood at the head of the first-year Class C, her gaze piercing forward. Resolute determination emanated from her as she readied herself to step into the room.
Unbandaged now, Olivia yearned for another confrontation with Gil. Having tasted defeat in their previous duel, her singular focus had become overcoming him. The memory of Gil's actions fueled her, as he had subjected her to the disdainful stares of other students, particularly those noble kids. Reclaiming her honor hinged upon triumphing over Gil in combat. Hence, she diligently readied herself, intent on extending the challenge for another duel.
However, upon entering, Olivia found no trace of Gil, leaving her puzzled. Her assumption that he might be running late soon dissolved, as it turned out that Gil had intentionally skipped the class altogether. Adding to the oddity, the teacher hadn't even mentioned his name during attendance.
Puzzled by this, Olivia approached the teacher after the class ended to inquire about Gil's whereabouts. "Oh, he's taken a leave for a dungeon raid," the teacher disclosed.
Olivia was taken aback. "What? First-year student allowed to take a raid?"
"Well, he got approved to do it. The guild also issued a license for him. My guess is he paid for it," the teacher explained.
A mix of frustration and envy surged within Olivia.
She couldn't help but think, 'Why does Gil get to experience a dungeon raid while all I do is practice in the courtyard, swinging my sword around?'
The idea that Gil might return even more formidable gnawed at her. However, she quickly quashed those negative feelings, realizing they wouldn't lead her anywhere.
'I just need to train as hard as possible to beat him.'
With newfound determination, Olivia headed to the training grounds, ready to diligently refine her sword skills.
***
Meanwhile, Gil quickly approached the city gate with his belongings snugly packed in a bag on his back. He was en route to rendezvous with Anderson, hardly anticipating that Anderson would manage to assemble the additional party member within a single day.
After a brisk fifteen-minute of run, Gil reached the city's entrance gate. Close by, three individuals engaged in lively conversation.
Positioned on the right stood a burly man laughing out loud. His medium, wavy blonde hair mirrored the shade of his beard, which adorned his face. Draped in a set of leather armor paired with concise pants, he sported a short sword hanging at his waist alongside a bag slung over his back. This figure was none other than Anderson, the adventurer whom Gil had encountered just the day before.
On the left stood a young man in his mid-twenties, his short straight black hair framing his face. He was attired in half-plate armor, a sword gracefully suspended from his waist. A bag secured to his back carried a shield. Despite his youthful appearance, a hint of embarrassment colored his expression as he engaged in the conversation.
Centered amongst the trio stood a young woman, exuding an air of maturity that belied her youthful visage. Her long, jet-black hair cascaded gracefully, partially veiled with a pointed hat atop her head. She boldly wore a long blue robe with alluring, revealing elements, an attire that conveyed an aura of allure. In the present moment, she indulged in light-hearted giggles, seemingly deriving amusement from the ongoing conversation between the trio.
Approaching the group, Gil caught Anderson's attention "Yo. Our employer coming at last. You sure took a long time," Anderson quipped.
Still catching his breath from his brisk run, Gil retorted, "Whose fault do you think? I practically had no sleep after gathering all the stuff I needed."
Anderson rolled his eyes. "Come on, if you're this sluggish, your future adventuring buddies might just leave you behind. Always prepare everything beforehand if you intend to make a trip."
"Ugh," Gil grumbled, finding no suitable comeback to Anderson's remark.
"Well, moving on, let me introduce your companions for today." Anderson gestured toward the others. "This young man goes by Lack, and this charming lady here is Elise."
As Anderson introduced the other two, Gil's mind briefly paused, wondering, 'Why did Anderson describe the woman differently from the guy? Or am I just overthinking this?'
However, swiftly dismissing the thought, he decided it wasn't his concern and introduced himself. "I'm Gillian, but call me Gil. A first-year student at the academy. I look forward to working with you both." With a slight bow, he concluded his introduction.
The trio appeared slightly taken aback by Gil's display of respect. It was an uncommon sight for a kid from a noble family to show such deference to adventurers.
"Well, well, aren't you a polite one," Elise chimed in. "As Anderson mentioned, I'm Elise. I a mage, as you can probably tell. A pleasure to make your acquaintance."
After Elise's introduction, Lack stepped forward. "Greetings, Gil. I'm Lack. I'll be the tank of our group, so don't worry about your front. I've got your protection covered." Lack grinned, giving a gentle pat to his armor-clad chest.
Anderson clapped his hands to gather their attention. "Alright, introductions are done. Now, where's our destination? I got some dungeon recommendations for newbies," he inquired.
"Did you forget that I want to get something? There is a dungeon that I intend to go to." Gil reminded.
"Oh, I thought you changed your mind. Are you really set on getting that shooting wand?" Anderson questioned, triggering a puzzled expression on Elise and Lack's faces. Meanwhile, Gil subtly shifted his expression to conceal his embarrassment.
"Y-yes, I want it. So shut up, just get going already."
Anderson sighed, conceding. He couldn't quite wrap his head around the fact that this high-paying job was to fetch a shitty weapon.
"Fine, fine. You're the one who's paying. So, where can we find this dungeon?"
Responding to Anderson's query, Gil stated, "It's called Galantha Village. You all must have heard of it, right?"
Gil's assertion prompted complex expressions from Anderson and Lack, while Gil and Elise mirrored expressions of puzzlement.